26133, Belleville, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26133, Belleville, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.11 percent of residents in 26133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 13.94 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Belleville, WV (ZIP Code 26133)

The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be daunting, a reality faced by men across the nation. For residents of Belleville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26133), understanding healthcare access becomes paramount. This analysis, the "Prostate Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, a critical component of successful healthcare navigation, especially for those seeking timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing prostate cancer services in this specific community, a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Belleville.

Belleville, nestled along the Ohio River in Wood County, offers a rural charm but presents unique transportation challenges. The primary artery connecting Belleville to the broader region is **West Virginia Route 33**, a vital road for accessing medical facilities. However, the winding nature of the route and potential for traffic congestion can impact drive times, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

**Drive Times and Destinations:**

The closest major healthcare hub for prostate cancer care is likely to be in Parkersburg, approximately 15-20 miles away. Driving to **WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center** or **Memorial Health System** in Marietta, Ohio, would involve traveling on **WV-33** and then connecting to **US-50** or **Ohio Route 7**. These trips, depending on traffic, can range from 30 minutes to an hour.

Further specialized care, including advanced radiation therapy or surgical expertise, might necessitate travel to larger cities like Charleston, West Virginia, or Columbus, Ohio. These journeys, however, involve significantly longer drive times, potentially exceeding two to three hours, increasing the stress on patients and their families.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Belleville and the surrounding area are extremely limited. The **Wood County Transit Authority** provides some bus services, but routes are infrequent, and schedules may not align with medical appointment times. Information on specific routes, bus numbers, and ADA accessibility features would be crucial for any patient relying on public transit. The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Parkersburg area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability in Belleville may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and **CareRide** may operate in the area. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. Thorough research into available providers, their service areas, and insurance coverage is essential.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Belleville, WV, reflects a complex reality. While the community offers a peaceful environment, healthcare access presents significant hurdles. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation options, creates a barrier for many residents. The distance to specialized care centers adds to the challenge, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some relief, but these options may not be universally accessible or affordable. The lack of readily available information on public transit routes and ADA accessibility further complicates the situation.

**The Impact on Moving to Belleville**

For individuals considering moving to Belleville, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is critical. Prospective residents with a history of prostate cancer or those concerned about their future healthcare needs must carefully evaluate the potential challenges. They should research the availability of specialized care, assess the feasibility of relying on personal vehicles, and explore alternative transportation options.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for this evaluation, highlighting the critical need for careful planning and proactive healthcare management. It underscores the importance of understanding the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure and the potential impact on healthcare outcomes.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in Belleville requires a multi-pronged approach. Increased public transportation services, with routes tailored to medical appointments, would significantly benefit the community. Partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services could facilitate patient access to care.

Promoting awareness of available ride-sharing and medical transportation options, along with clear information on insurance coverage, is essential. Investing in telehealth infrastructure could also bridge the gap, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Belleville, WV, paints a picture of both challenges and opportunities. While the community faces transportation limitations, proactive planning and the exploration of available resources can mitigate the impact on healthcare access. By understanding the nuances of the transportation landscape and advocating for improved services, residents can ensure that timely and effective prostate cancer care remains within reach. This information is especially important for anyone considering moving to Belleville, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.