26138, Brohard, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 26138 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 8.65 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brohard, WV (ZIP Code 26138)

The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be a life-altering event, demanding prompt and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Brohard, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26138), the journey to receive that care involves a complex interplay of factors, especially those related to transportation and healthcare access. This analysis provides a Prostate Cancer Score, considering the available transportation options and the proximity of essential medical facilities. It is designed to inform individuals considering moving to Brohard or those already residing there, and to provide a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape.

The Prostate Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value representing cancer severity, but rather an assessment of the ease and efficiency with which residents can access crucial prostate cancer-related healthcare. This score considers factors like drive times to specialists, availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The lower the score, the better the access to care.

Brohard, nestled within Wood County, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is predominantly rural, with limited public transit options and a reliance on personal vehicles. This geographic isolation significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those requiring frequent appointments, radiation therapy, or specialized surgical procedures.

**Drive Time to Key Healthcare Facilities**

The cornerstone of the Prostate Cancer Score is drive time. The nearest major medical center offering comprehensive prostate cancer care is often the Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, approximately 15 miles from Brohard. This drive typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Brohard. The primary route involves using West Virginia Route 47 (WV-47), a crucial artery connecting Brohard to Parkersburg.

However, the condition of WV-47 can vary, and inclement weather can significantly impact travel times. Snow, ice, or heavy rain can transform a 20-minute drive into a precarious journey, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical appointments. Other routes, such as County Road 25 (also known as Brohard Road) and County Road 23, offer alternative paths but are often less direct and may involve navigating winding roads.

For specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further, potentially to facilities in Charleston, WV, or even Columbus, OH. These trips necessitate significantly longer drive times, potentially exceeding two hours each way. This extended travel time adds considerable stress and inconvenience for patients and their families, impacting their overall well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Brohard and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The Wood County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve Brohard. Even if a route is available, the bus may require multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and adding complexity to the journey.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on WCTA buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Ensuring accessible transportation is paramount for those undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects from prostate cancer therapies. Information on ADA-compliant routes and features can be obtained by contacting the WCTA directly.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the Parkersburg area, but their presence in Brohard is less certain. Availability often depends on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially expensive, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized option for patients who cannot drive or require assistance. These services typically transport patients to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door assistance. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly in rural areas. Local providers like MedTransport and others may be available, but their service areas and pricing should be thoroughly investigated.

**The Brohard Prostate Cancer Score**

Considering the factors above, the Prostate Cancer Score for Brohard (ZIP Code 26138) is moderately high. The relatively short drive time to Camden Clark Medical Center offers some level of healthcare access. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport significantly impact the score. The score also reflects the longer travel times required for specialized care.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For residents of Brohard diagnosed with prostate cancer, proactive planning is essential. This includes:

* **Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician:** This physician can help coordinate care and provide referrals to specialists.
* **Exploring all available transportation options:** This includes carpooling with family or friends, utilizing ride-sharing services when available, and investigating medical transport options.
* **Planning for potential delays:** Weather and road conditions can impact travel times, so building in extra time for appointments is crucial.
* **Considering the financial implications of transportation:** The cost of gas, ride-sharing, and medical transport should be factored into the overall cost of care.

For individuals considering moving to Brohard, this analysis underscores the importance of considering healthcare access as a key factor. While Brohard offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access should be carefully weighed against the benefits. Researching local healthcare providers, understanding the availability of transportation options, and assessing the potential financial burden of healthcare are all crucial steps in making an informed decision.

**In conclusion,** while Brohard offers a sense of community and natural beauty, the Prostate Cancer Score reflects the transportation challenges that can impact healthcare access. By understanding these challenges and proactively planning for them, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape and receive the care they need. The journey to healthcare in Brohard requires careful consideration, but with planning and resourcefulness, it is a manageable one.