26764, Terra Alta, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26764, Terra Alta, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.37 percent of residents in 26764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Preston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Terra Alta (ZIP Code 26764)

The air in Terra Alta, West Virginia, nestled within the rugged beauty of Preston County, carries the promise of crisp mountain breezes and the quietude of rural life. But for those battling lung cancer, this tranquility can be shadowed by the complexities of accessing timely and effective healthcare. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP Code 26764, examining the critical factor of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**, particularly for those facing the challenges of this disease. We'll delve into the realities of getting to vital appointments, exploring the available options and their inherent limitations.

The score considers the distance to radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgical oncology, pulmonology specialists, and diagnostic imaging centers. It weighs the accessibility of these services based on **transportation** options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The higher the score, the more challenging the situation. This assessment aims to illuminate the hurdles faced by individuals with lung cancer in Terra Alta and highlight potential areas for improvement.

The primary determinant of **healthcare access** in this region is the reliance on personal vehicles. Terra Alta, a small town, lacks robust public transit. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Morgantown, approximately 45 miles to the west, and Cumberland, Maryland, roughly 50 miles east. The drive to Morgantown, home to WVU Medicine, typically involves navigating the winding roads of West Virginia. The most direct route utilizes US-50 West, a two-lane highway that can be subject to delays due to traffic, weather conditions, and road construction. The journey can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on these variables.

Reaching Cumberland, Maryland, and its associated healthcare providers, involves traveling east on US-50 East. This route also presents similar challenges, including potential delays. The drive time is comparable to Morgantown, approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. These drive times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, experiencing fatigue, or facing mobility limitations.

Public transit options are extremely limited. The Mountain LineMountain Line Transit Authority, serving Morgantown and surrounding areas, does not extend its services to Terra Alta. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly connect Terra Alta to either Morgantown or Cumberland. This lack of public **transportation** severely restricts **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Furthermore, the absence of accessible public transit options that meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards exacerbates the challenges for patients with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown and Cumberland areas, but their presence in Terra Alta is inconsistent and unreliable. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for longer distances, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent appointments and treatments. These services, while potentially useful in a pinch, are not a dependable solution for ongoing **transportation** needs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking. They may also have limited availability, especially in rural areas. Companies like Medstar and American Medical Response (AMR) may serve the area, but their specific coverage and availability within ZIP Code 26764 need to be verified. The cost of these services, coupled with the potential for long wait times, can add to the stress and burden of managing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The challenges are further compounded by the lack of local healthcare facilities. Terra Alta itself has limited medical resources, with no specialized oncology services. This necessitates travel for all aspects of lung cancer care, from diagnosis and staging to treatment and follow-up. The distance to specialists and treatment centers, coupled with the limited **transportation** options, creates a significant barrier to timely and effective **healthcare access**.

For individuals considering **moving to Terra Alta** or already residing there and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the **Lung Cancer Score** for this ZIP Code is notably high. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the potential limitations of medical transport services all contribute to this challenging situation. The score reflects the increased burden placed on patients and their families in navigating the complexities of **transportation** while managing their health.

The score underscores the importance of proactive planning. Patients and their families need to carefully consider their **transportation** options and develop strategies for managing appointments and treatments. This may involve coordinating with family members, friends, or community organizations for rides. It may also necessitate exploring medical transport services and budgeting for the associated costs.

Furthermore, the score highlights the need for community-based solutions. Increased advocacy for improved public transit options, including routes connecting Terra Alta to Morgantown and Cumberland, is crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to ensure reliable access for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Supporting local initiatives that provide assistance with **transportation** costs can alleviate some of the financial burden on patients.

In conclusion, the **Lung Cancer Score** for ZIP Code 26764 reflects the significant challenges faced by individuals with lung cancer in accessing **healthcare**. The limitations in **transportation** options, particularly the lack of public transit, contribute to a high score. While the beauty of the mountains and the tranquility of rural life are undeniable, the reality of navigating the healthcare system in Terra Alta demands careful consideration and proactive planning. For those considering **moving to Terra Alta**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options and the availability of support services is essential. Addressing these challenges through community-based solutions and advocating for improved **healthcare access** is paramount to ensuring that residents of Terra Alta can receive the timely and effective care they deserve.