26451, West Milford, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26451, West Milford, West Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.25 percent of residents in 26451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland-Clarksburg Hospital, Inc with a distance of 4.89 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Milford, WV (ZIP Code 26451)**

West Milford, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Harrison County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering access to healthcare, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 26451, examines the transportation landscape that impacts healthcare access, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those contemplating moving to this area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a descriptive assessment of the accessibility of healthcare resources. It reflects the reality of navigating the transportation infrastructure, considering factors like distance, road conditions, and available services. A higher score indicates greater ease of access to healthcare, while a lower score highlights potential challenges.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Transportation Arteries**

The primary means of transportation in West Milford, as in most of rural West Virginia, is the personal vehicle. The road network, while offering scenic beauty, can present limitations for those seeking timely healthcare. The major thoroughfare is US Route 19, which runs north-south, connecting West Milford to Clarksburg and Bridgeport. Drive times to these population centers, where the majority of specialized medical care is located, are crucial.

Traveling north on US 19 towards Clarksburg, a trip of approximately 10 miles, typically takes around 20-30 minutes. This time can fluctuate based on traffic, especially during peak hours, and weather conditions. The route is generally well-maintained, but sections may experience congestion.

Southbound on US 19 leads to Bridgeport, a slightly shorter distance but often a similar drive time due to potential traffic and road conditions. These drive times are critical for those needing prompt medical attention, including individuals with suspected or confirmed lung cancer.

Secondary roads, such as County Route 19/2 (West Milford Road) and County Route 19/1 (Good Hope Road), offer alternative routes, but they are often winding and may be less well-maintained. These roads can add significant time to a journey, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Challenges**

Public transportation options in West Milford are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The Harrison County Senior Citizens Center provides some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, but these services are often restricted in scope and availability.

The West Virginia Department of Transportation operates a statewide public transit system, but its presence in West Milford is minimal. Bus routes are infrequent and may not connect directly to major medical facilities. ADA-accessible features on available buses are essential, but the limited frequency and route coverage reduce their overall utility for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clarksburg and Bridgeport areas. However, their availability in West Milford itself is often inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and may incur higher costs compared to driving.

Medical transport services, including ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a vital role for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing services to and from medical appointments. These services are crucial for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which often require frequent visits to healthcare facilities.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Valley Ambulance Service:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transport.
* **Stat MedEvac:** Offers air medical transport for critical cases.
* **Other local ambulance services:** Operating in the area.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for West Milford, WV (26451) is moderate. The primary challenge lies in the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services. The drive times to healthcare facilities in Clarksburg and Bridgeport are reasonable, but they can be affected by traffic and weather.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the overall accessibility of healthcare is somewhat compromised by the lack of diverse transportation options.

**Implications for Moving to West Milford**

For individuals considering moving to West Milford, WV, and those concerned about lung cancer or other health issues, careful consideration of transportation needs is paramount. The availability of a personal vehicle is highly advantageous. Individuals relying on public transit or ride-sharing should anticipate potential delays and plan accordingly.

Proximity to healthcare facilities in Clarksburg and Bridgeport is a positive factor. However, the limited transportation options necessitate proactive planning and the development of a reliable transportation strategy.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Access to healthcare in West Milford, WV (26451), presents a mixed picture. While drive times to major medical facilities are manageable, the limited public transit and ride-sharing options create challenges. The availability of medical transport services is a crucial asset.

The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation needs. For residents and those considering moving to the area, understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare and managing the complexities of lung cancer treatment. The need for reliable transportation underscores the importance of considering all available options and planning for potential challenges.