26591, Worthington, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26591, Worthington, West Virginia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.69 percent of residents in 26591 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Marion with a distance of 4.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Worthington, WV (ZIP Code 26591)

Considering a move to Worthington, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26591)? This assessment provides a detailed “Lung Cancer Score” evaluating transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors for individuals managing or at risk of lung cancer. Understanding the practicalities of reaching medical appointments is paramount, and this analysis offers a comprehensive overview. The goal is to provide clarity on the ease (or difficulty) of accessing potentially life-saving care.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the transportation infrastructure of the area. Worthington, nestled in Marion County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for movement. The primary arteries are **US Route 19** and **West Virginia Route 310**. These roads, while providing access to surrounding communities, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times to medical facilities. The terrain, characterized by rolling hills, further influences travel, especially during inclement weather.

Drive times are a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The nearest major healthcare providers are located in Fairmont, a town approximately 10 miles away. Driving to **Fairmont Regional Medical Center** via US-19 typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey to **WVU Medicine Fairmont Medical Center** (formerly Fairmont Clinic) is similar. However, unforeseen delays due to accidents or road closures can extend these times, potentially adding stress for patients.

Beyond Fairmont, more specialized care, including oncology services, might necessitate travel to Morgantown, roughly 30 miles away. The drive to **WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital** in Morgantown, via US-19 and then I-79, can take 45 minutes to an hour. This longer commute demands careful planning, especially for regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. The potential for fatigue associated with lung cancer and its treatments underscores the importance of convenient and reliable transportation.

Public transportation options in Worthington are limited. The **Marion County Transit Authority (MCTA)** offers bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly for areas outside of Fairmont. The MCTA website (mctawv.com) provides route information and schedules. However, the availability of direct routes from Worthington to medical facilities is limited. The buses are equipped with **ADA-accessible features**, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the infrequency of service presents a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Fairmont and Morgantown areas, but their presence in Worthington is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate based on driver availability and demand, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore risky, necessitating a backup plan.

Medical transport services offer a dedicated solution for patients requiring assistance. Several companies operate in the region, including **MedStar Ambulance Service** and **HealthNet Aeromedical Services**. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transport to and from medical appointments. They are equipped with trained personnel and specialized vehicles to cater to the needs of patients with varying levels of mobility. However, these services come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the combined impact of these transportation factors. It evaluates the drive times, the reliability of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing, and the accessibility of medical transport services. The score is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare.

For individuals considering moving to Worthington, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Proximity to healthcare is a fundamental aspect of the quality of life. Those with a history of lung cancer, or at high risk, should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing regular medical care. This requires a realistic assessment of their ability to drive, the availability of reliable transportation alternatives, and the potential financial burden of medical transport services.

The score also considers the availability of support services. The **American Cancer Society** and the **Lung Cancer Research Foundation** offer valuable resources, including patient navigation, financial assistance, and support groups. Accessing these resources can be facilitated by the availability of reliable transportation.

In the context of lung cancer, the ability to access healthcare quickly and efficiently is paramount. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment are critical for improving outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the reality that transportation challenges can create barriers to care, potentially delaying diagnosis or treatment.

For those considering moving to Worthington, the following recommendations are offered. First, thoroughly assess your ability to drive and the potential for fatigue associated with lung cancer treatment. Second, investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services in advance. Third, explore the potential for support from family, friends, or community organizations to assist with transportation. Fourth, familiarize yourself with the public transportation options, even if they are limited.

The Lung Cancer Score is not designed to discourage individuals from moving to Worthington. Instead, it is intended to provide a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on healthcare access. By acknowledging these challenges and planning accordingly, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they need.

The score will be updated periodically to reflect any changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit routes, or the availability of medical services. The ongoing development of the region, including potential improvements to transportation, will be monitored closely. The goal is to provide the most current and accurate information possible, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Worthington (ZIP Code 26591) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. However, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport, along with the proximity to Fairmont and Morgantown, provides some degree of access.

The score is not a static assessment; it is a dynamic reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a specific geographic area. The importance of considering the transportation landscape is undeniable. It is a critical factor in the overall well-being of individuals managing or at risk of lung cancer.