26542, Masontown, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26542, Masontown, West Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.58 percent of residents in 26542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Preston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.99 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Masontown, WV (ZIP Code 26542)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient healthcare access. For residents of Masontown, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26542), this necessity intertwines with the realities of transportation. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this area, considering factors impacting healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options. A high score indicates greater ease of access, a critical element in the fight against this devastating disease.

Masontown, nestled in Preston County, presents a unique challenge. The rural landscape and limited infrastructure dictate the available transportation choices. The ability to quickly reach diagnostic facilities, treatment centers, and follow-up appointments is paramount for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding the available options is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for those considering moving to Masontown.

**Drive Times: The Highway to Healing**

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Masontown is Interstate 68 (I-68). This highway provides a direct link to Morgantown, the regional hub for advanced medical care. Driving to WVU Medicine’s facilities, including J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Morgantown. This drive, though relatively short, can be impacted by weather conditions, especially during the harsh West Virginia winters.

Secondary roads, such as US Route 119, offer alternative routes. However, these roads are often winding and can add significant time to the journey. Travel on these roads, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, can be considerably slower than the interstate. The condition of these roads is also a factor, with potholes and narrow lanes potentially adding to the stress of a medical journey.

Smaller towns like Kingwood, the county seat, offer some healthcare services, including primary care and urgent care facilities. Driving to Kingwood via US Route 7 or WV Route 26 takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. While these facilities provide essential services, specialized care, such as oncology, usually necessitates travel to Morgantown.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Masontown and Preston County are limited. The Monongalia County Transit Authority (MCTA) primarily serves Morgantown and the surrounding areas. Accessing MCTA services from Masontown requires a drive to Morgantown, effectively negating the convenience of public transit for direct healthcare access.

There are no dedicated bus routes that directly connect Masontown to healthcare facilities in Morgantown. The MCTA does offer routes within Morgantown that could be utilized once a patient reaches the city, but this still requires a drive to the nearest bus stop. This lack of direct routes significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents who do not have access to personal vehicles.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. The MCTA strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the limited routes and the need for a pre-existing drive to Morgantown pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown area. While they offer a convenient option for transportation, their availability in Masontown can be inconsistent. The distance from Morgantown can result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares. Relying solely on ride-share services for frequent medical appointments may be impractical.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance with transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is usually required.

Brands like MedStar and First Transit are known to operate in the area. These services may offer transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare needs. Patients should research these options and confirm insurance coverage before relying on them.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for Masontown**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Masontown (ZIP Code 26542) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the drive to Morgantown via I-68 offers relatively quick access to advanced medical facilities, the limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-share services present challenges. The availability of medical transport services can mitigate some of these difficulties, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Masontown, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, particularly in Morgantown, is a significant advantage. However, reliance on personal vehicles is often necessary.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Access**

The fight against lung cancer demands timely and efficient healthcare access. While Masontown offers a reasonable level of access via I-68, improvements are needed to enhance the "Lung Cancer Score." Increased public transit options, particularly direct routes to Morgantown, would significantly benefit residents. Expanding the availability and affordability of ride-share and medical transport services is also crucial.

Furthermore, initiatives to improve road conditions on secondary routes, such as US Route 119 and WV Route 26, would contribute to safer and more reliable travel. These improvements would not only benefit those battling lung cancer but also enhance the overall quality of life for all residents of Masontown. By prioritizing transportation improvements, the community can demonstrate a commitment to healthcare access and support those facing the challenges of this devastating disease. The goal is to ensure that every resident of Masontown has the best possible chance of receiving timely and effective care.