26836, Moorefield, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26836, Moorefield, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.07 percent of residents in 26836 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grant Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.48 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 26836

The diagnosis of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective treatment. For residents of Moorefield, West Virginia, ZIP code 26836, the journey to healthcare, specifically oncology services, is a critical factor in the overall prognosis. This write-up provides a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, examining the nuances of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** within and beyond this rural community. It is particularly relevant for individuals and families **moving to Moorefield**, considering the implications of geographical limitations on timely medical intervention.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities. The primary destination for specialized oncology services is often Winchester Medical Center in Winchester, Virginia. The most direct route involves traversing US Route 220 North, a scenic but sometimes winding two-lane highway. The drive, under ideal conditions, spans approximately 50 miles and typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes. However, this estimate is subject to significant variability. Seasonal weather, particularly snow and ice during the winter months, can drastically increase travel times, potentially doubling or even tripling the journey duration. Additionally, traffic congestion, though less prevalent than in urban areas, can occur, especially during peak commuting hours or on weekends, adding to the delay.

Another route option involves taking West Virginia Route 55 East to US Route 33 East, and then connecting to Interstate 81 North, before heading south to Winchester. This route, while potentially offering a more direct connection to I-81, adds distance and complexity. It also introduces a greater reliance on interstate travel, which, while generally faster, can be susceptible to accidents or construction delays that may significantly impact travel time. Therefore, the US Route 220 North route remains the most direct, albeit weather-dependent, option for accessing cancer care.

Beyond Winchester, other potential destinations include facilities in Morgantown, West Virginia, or even the larger metropolitan areas of Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland. Reaching these locations necessitates longer drive times, often exceeding two to three hours, and involves navigating complex highway systems, including Interstate 68 and Interstate 70. The increased travel time associated with these options significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as delayed treatment initiation can negatively influence patient outcomes.

Public **transportation** options in 26836 are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the county, and the availability of intercity bus services is sporadic at best. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their condition or other mobility limitations. The absence of a reliable public transport system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport for accessing cancer care. The lack of public transit is a serious consideration for anyone **moving to Moorefield** and needing regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The rural nature of the region and the limited population density can result in inconsistent service and potentially longer wait times, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing for a round trip to Winchester or other distant healthcare facilities can be substantial, adding a financial burden to the already challenging circumstances of a cancer diagnosis.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with travel to medical appointments. Several companies, such as First Call Ambulance Service and MedStar, provide non-emergency medical transport in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transport, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment, such as wheelchairs and oxygen. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, depending on the distance and level of care required. The availability of these services is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those unable to drive themselves.

The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options presents a significant challenge to **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients in 26836. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport introduces potential delays and financial burdens that can negatively impact treatment adherence and overall patient outcomes. The limited availability of public **transportation** further exacerbates these challenges, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, reflects the geographical constraints and the limited **transportation** infrastructure in the region. While the proximity to Winchester Medical Center offers a relatively accessible option, the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays necessitate careful planning and preparation. The lack of reliable public **transportation** and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services further complicate the situation.

For individuals and families **moving to Moorefield** and considering the implications of a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is essential. This includes evaluating the reliability of personal vehicles, researching available medical **transportation** services, and understanding the potential financial implications of accessing specialized cancer care. The ability to navigate these challenges effectively is a critical factor in ensuring timely and appropriate treatment, ultimately influencing the overall Lung Cancer Score and the patient’s chances of survival. The importance of this assessment cannot be overstated, as the journey to healthcare is as crucial as the treatment itself.