26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.24 percent of residents in 26767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Potomac Valley Hospital with a distance of 19.41 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wiley Ford, WV (ZIP Code 26767)

The specter of lung cancer looms large, a harsh reality for many. Early detection and timely treatment are paramount, underscoring the critical importance of healthcare access. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Wiley Ford, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26767), assessing its impact on a hypothetical individual's ability to reach vital medical services, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score." This score, though not a formal medical assessment, reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, a crucial factor in managing this devastating disease. For someone newly **moving to Wiley Ford**, understanding these dynamics is essential.

The foundation of this analysis lies in understanding the **transportation** options available. Wiley Ford, a small community nestled in Mineral County, presents unique challenges. Its rural setting often translates to longer travel times and limited choices. The primary consideration is the journey to the nearest comprehensive medical facilities, particularly those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer.

The closest hospital with oncology services is UPMC Western Maryland in Cumberland, Maryland. This journey, the cornerstone of our score, is typically undertaken by car. From Wiley Ford, the most direct route involves navigating the winding roads of West Virginia and Maryland. The primary artery is US Route 220, a major north-south thoroughfare. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 20-25 minutes, a manageable timeframe. However, traffic, weather, and road conditions, especially during winter, can significantly extend this travel time.

Alternative routes exist, though they often add to the commute. For instance, taking WV Route 28 and then connecting to US Route 220 offers a slightly different path, potentially avoiding some congestion, but adding a few minutes to the drive. The secondary roads, while scenic, are often narrow and prone to hazards, particularly after inclement weather. The ability to navigate these roads safely becomes a crucial element in the overall score.

Public **transportation** options in Wiley Ford are extremely limited. Mineral County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. The potential for a bus route serving the area and connecting to Cumberland is minimal. The absence of regular, reliable public transit significantly hinders healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. This deficiency drastically impacts the Lung Cancer Score, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those reliant on others for transport.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, is another crucial factor. While these services are becoming increasingly prevalent, their presence in rural areas is often inconsistent. The availability of a ride-sharing service in Wiley Ford is uncertain, and even if available, wait times can be significant. This unreliability poses a challenge, especially for scheduled appointments or urgent medical needs. The unpredictability of ride-sharing availability further diminishes the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical trips, offer a potential solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and MedStar offer services in the region. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services come at a cost, and insurance coverage can vary. The financial burden and the need for prior scheduling can present barriers, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

The condition of the roads also plays a significant role. The roads in and around Wiley Ford, particularly during winter, can be treacherous. Snow, ice, and potholes can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. The impact of road conditions is particularly critical for patients undergoing treatment, who may be more vulnerable to the effects of a bumpy ride. This factor, though seemingly minor, adds to the overall complexity of healthcare access.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not merely about distance; it encompasses the reliability, affordability, and accessibility of all available **transportation** options. It considers the time required to travel, the potential for delays, and the financial burden associated with each mode of transport. The score also weighs the availability of assistance for individuals with disabilities, a crucial factor in ensuring equitable **healthcare access**.

For individuals **moving to Wiley Ford**, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is essential. The absence of robust public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant hurdles. The journey to UPMC Western Maryland, while relatively short in terms of distance, can be fraught with complexities.

The ideal scenario involves a reliable personal vehicle, the ability to drive safely, and the financial means to cover transportation costs. However, for those lacking these resources, the situation becomes considerably more challenging. The need for family support, reliance on medical transport, or the potential for missed appointments can significantly impact the quality of care and, ultimately, the prognosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wiley Ford, therefore, is influenced by several factors. The drive time to UPMC Western Maryland, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, the condition of the roads, and the absence of public transit all contribute to the overall assessment. This score underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need for community-based solutions to improve **healthcare access** in rural areas.

The score reflects the reality that the journey to healthcare is not always a simple one. It emphasizes the importance of early detection, timely treatment, and the critical role of **transportation** in facilitating these vital aspects of lung cancer care. For those considering **moving to Wiley Ford**, this analysis highlights the need to carefully evaluate their **healthcare access** needs and plan accordingly. The challenges are real, but with awareness and proactive planning, individuals can navigate the complexities and ensure they receive the care they deserve.