26562, Burton, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26562, Burton, West Virginia is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

16.00 percent of residents in 26562 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Marion with a distance of 20.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burton, WV (ZIP Code 26562)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of Appalachian beauty in Burton, West Virginia, a community nestled within the embrace of Wetzel County. But beauty alone cannot shield its residents from the harsh realities of life, including the potential shadow of lung cancer. Understanding healthcare access, specifically the challenges of **transportation**, becomes crucial for anyone contemplating **moving to Burton** or already residing within its borders. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the practicalities of reaching vital medical services, a critical factor in early detection and treatment.

Our focus is on ZIP Code 26562, a geographical area that, while offering a sense of rural tranquility, presents unique hurdles in accessing specialized medical care. This score considers the time, cost, and ease of **transportation** options available to those diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge needed to navigate the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions regarding their health.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation of the available resources. It encompasses drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, all vital components of **healthcare access**. We will consider the practical realities of reaching key facilities, including hospitals, oncology centers, and diagnostic imaging services, all essential for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents of Burton. The journey to Morgantown, the nearest city offering comprehensive medical facilities, is a significant undertaking. Traveling to WVU Medicine’s J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, a regional hub for cancer care, requires navigating a network of roads. From Burton, you'll likely start on County Road 24, a winding route that eventually merges onto US-250 South. This stretch can be slow-going, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

US-250 South then connects to I-79 South, a major interstate that provides a more direct route to Morgantown. However, the distance is approximately 40 miles, and the drive, under ideal conditions, takes around an hour. This drive time is a crucial factor, especially for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, who may require frequent trips. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and add to the stress of accessing healthcare.

The drive to Wheeling, West Virginia, another potential destination for specialized care, is further complicated. This route involves navigating the winding roads of Wetzel County, including WV-7 East, before connecting to I-70 East. The distance is approximately 70 miles, and the drive can take over an hour and a half, making it a less convenient option for regular appointments.

Public transit options are limited in Burton. The West Virginia University (WVU) Mountain LineMountain Line Transit Authority provides some service, but its routes are primarily focused on Morgantown and its surrounding areas. There is no direct public **transportation** from Burton to Morgantown. The Mountain Line does offer routes that may get you closer to the hospital, but this would require multiple transfers, adding significant time and complexity to the journey. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for patients with mobility issues, and it is important to confirm the accessibility of the specific routes and buses used. This lack of direct public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown area. However, their availability in Burton is less reliable. The cost of a ride-share to Morgantown can be substantial, especially during peak demand or in inclement weather. This expense adds another layer of financial burden to the already challenging experience of managing a cancer diagnosis. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern, as waiting times can be unpredictable, and availability may be limited, particularly for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late at night.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients who are unable to drive or lack access to other **transportation** options. Several companies provide medical transport services in the region, including ambulances, wheelchair vans, and stretcher services. These services are often covered by insurance, but it's essential to verify coverage and understand any associated co-pays or deductibles.

Some medical transport providers include MedExpress and AmeriCare. However, availability and cost can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the distance traveled. Medical transport services are crucial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to safely travel by car. The process of arranging medical transport can be complex, requiring coordination with healthcare providers and insurance companies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Burton, WV (26562) reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** due to limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the distance to specialized medical facilities, creates significant hurdles for residents. The lack of robust public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transport services all contribute to a lower score.

For individuals considering **moving to Burton** or already residing in the area, it is essential to proactively address these challenges. This includes assessing the availability of reliable **transportation**, exploring potential insurance coverage for medical transport, and establishing a support network to assist with appointments and treatments.

The proximity of Morgantown and Wheeling to Burton offers access to quality healthcare, but the **transportation** challenges must be carefully considered. Early detection and treatment are crucial in the fight against lung cancer. Planning for these realities can significantly improve outcomes.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a definitive judgment but a framework for understanding the complexities of **healthcare access** in Burton, WV. By acknowledging these challenges and proactively addressing them, residents can improve their chances of receiving timely and effective medical care.