26568, Enterprise, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26568, Enterprise, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.06 percent of residents in 26568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Marion with a distance of 4.44 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 26568**

This analysis explores healthcare access for individuals residing in ZIP Code 26568, focusing on lung cancer care. We examine transportation options to medical facilities, providing a “Lung Cancer Score” based on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Enterprise, West Virginia, and needing to understand healthcare accessibility.

The “Lung Cancer Score” considers the critical importance of timely access to specialized medical care, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments. Delays in these areas can significantly impact patient outcomes. The score is a composite metric, reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential healthcare services.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Healthcare**

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 26568 is in Morgantown, West Virginia. This city, approximately 20 miles away, is home to WVU Medicine, the primary healthcare provider in the region. The primary route is via Interstate 68, a well-maintained highway that generally offers a smooth and efficient journey.

The drive time to WVU Medicine facilities in Morgantown typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Traffic can be heavier during peak commuting hours, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons. Alternative routes, such as US Route 19, exist but are generally slower due to lower speed limits and more frequent stoplights. These routes are especially useful if there is an accident on I-68.

For residents in the more remote areas of 26568, the drive time may be extended. The condition of local roads, like County Route 7 and County Route 19/1, can also impact travel times. These roads may be subject to seasonal weather conditions, such as snow and ice during the winter months, which can further complicate transportation.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in 26568 are limited. The Monongalia County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not designed for convenient access to healthcare facilities. The MCTA primarily serves the Morgantown area.

The MCTA does not have direct routes that serve 26568. Residents would need to drive to a central location, such as Morgantown, to access the public transit network. This adds to the overall commute time and reduces the practicality of public transit for medical appointments.

The MCTA buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of direct routes and limited service frequency presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who rely on public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown area. However, their availability in 26568 is less reliable. The availability of drivers can vary, and wait times may be longer, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for patients who require assistance getting to medical appointments. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those who are unable to drive.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and companies that specialize in NEMT. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, type of service, and insurance coverage.

**Lung Cancer Score Calculation**

The “Lung Cancer Score” for 26568 is based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to WVU Medicine facilities.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency and convenience of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and wait times for ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services.

The score is calculated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing very poor access and 10 representing excellent access.

**Score for 26568:**

Based on the analysis, the “Lung Cancer Score” for 26568 is estimated to be 5. This score reflects the following:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate drive times to Morgantown.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Variable ride-sharing availability.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport options are available but require planning.

This score indicates that while healthcare access is available, it is not without challenges. Residents of 26568 may experience longer commute times, limited public transit options, and the need to rely on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation for medical appointments.

**Implications for Moving to Enterprise**

For individuals considering moving to Enterprise, West Virginia, understanding the healthcare access in 26568 is crucial. The “Lung Cancer Score” provides a valuable assessment of the transportation challenges involved in accessing medical care.

Those with lung cancer or at risk of developing the disease need to consider the implications of the score. The distance to specialized medical facilities, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services can pose significant challenges.

Individuals who are considering moving to Enterprise should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly. This may involve owning a reliable vehicle, arranging for medical transportation, or utilizing ride-sharing services.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 26568 requires a multi-faceted approach.

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of public transit routes to include direct service to 26568 and surrounding areas.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Encourage ride-sharing services to expand their coverage and improve driver availability in the area.
* **Expand Medical Transport:** Increase the availability and affordability of medical transport services.
* **Community Awareness:** Educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources.

These improvements would significantly enhance the “Lung Cancer Score” and improve healthcare access for all residents of 26568.

**Conclusion**

The “Lung Cancer Score” provides a valuable assessment of healthcare access in 26568. While drive times to healthcare facilities are moderate, the limited public transit options and variable ride-sharing availability present challenges. For those considering moving to Enterprise, West Virginia, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. By investing in improved transportation infrastructure and services, the community can enhance healthcare access and improve the quality of life for all residents. The need for improved healthcare access is a critical consideration for those moving to Enterprise.