26386, Lumberport, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26386, Lumberport, West Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.05 percent of residents in 26386 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is United Hospital Center, Inc with a distance of 6.64 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumberport, WV (ZIP Code 26386)

The crisp air of Lumberport, West Virginia, nestled within the rolling hills of Harrison County, offers a certain charm. However, when considering a move to this community, particularly for those with or at risk of lung cancer, understanding **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This write-up delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP Code 26386, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment based on the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities.

The primary concern for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized medical care. This includes pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and the necessary diagnostic tools like CT scans and PET scans. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape directly impacts survival rates and quality of life.

Lumberport itself is a small town, and the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in the larger cities of Clarksburg and Morgantown. The distance, coupled with the mountainous terrain, significantly influences the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Driving the Distance:**

The most common mode of **transportation** for residents is personal vehicles. The primary route to Clarksburg, approximately 10 miles away, involves traversing **US Route 19** south. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying critical appointments. The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

For those seeking more specialized care, Morgantown, home to the West Virginia University (WVU) Medicine facilities, presents a more significant challenge. The journey involves traveling on **US Route 19** south to **Interstate 79** north. The distance is approximately 45 miles, and the drive can take upwards of an hour, especially during inclement weather or rush hour. This longer travel time contributes negatively to the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for patients requiring frequent treatments or experiencing acute symptoms.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but winter weather can render them treacherous. Snow and ice are common occurrences, and the mountainous terrain can make driving hazardous. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative **transportation** options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Lumberport are limited. The Harrison County Senior Citizens Center may offer some transportation services for medical appointments, but these are often restricted to seniors and individuals with disabilities. There is no regular public bus service connecting Lumberport directly to Clarksburg or Morgantown.

This lack of readily available public **transportation** significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." Patients without access to a personal vehicle, or those unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects, face considerable difficulties in accessing timely medical care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clarksburg and Morgantown areas. However, their availability in Lumberport itself is less reliable, and wait times can be significantly longer. The cost of ride-sharing for the longer distances to Morgantown can also be substantial, adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are another option. These services, like MedTrans or First Call Medical Transportation, provide non-emergency medical transport for individuals requiring assistance. They often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services can be invaluable, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and require advance booking.

**ADA Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public **transportation** and in healthcare facilities. However, the lack of robust public transit in Lumberport necessitates reliance on private or specialized services. Ensuring that any chosen **transportation** option meets ADA requirements is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Assessment:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Lumberport, WV (ZIP Code 26386) is moderately low. While Clarksburg offers relatively accessible healthcare, the distance to Morgantown, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for weather-related delays create significant challenges for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer.

The score is further diminished by the potential financial burden of relying on ride-sharing or medical **transportation**. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced access to critical treatments.

**Moving to Lumberport: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

For individuals considering **moving to Lumberport** with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, careful planning is essential. Proximity to family or friends who can provide **transportation** support is highly beneficial. Researching and establishing relationships with local medical **transportation** providers before moving is also advisable.

Furthermore, understanding the limitations of the local **transportation** infrastructure is crucial. Individuals should factor in travel time to appointments, potential delays due to weather or traffic, and the associated costs.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lumberport highlights the importance of prioritizing **healthcare access** when making decisions about residency. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the limited **transportation** options present a significant hurdle for those navigating the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for ensuring timely access to care and maximizing the chances of positive health outcomes. The journey to healthcare in Lumberport requires careful navigation, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and understanding the available resources within the **transportation** network.