26170, Saint Marys, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26170, Saint Marys, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.50 percent of residents in 26170 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sistersville General Hospital with a distance of 15.31 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Marys, WV (ZIP Code 26170)

Considering a move to Saint Marys, West Virginia, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 26170, evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities offering these services. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

Saint Marys, a charming town nestled along the Ohio River, offers a slower pace of life, but its healthcare landscape requires careful examination. Assessing the ease of reaching medical professionals is crucial, especially when dealing with a condition like prostate cancer, where early detection and consistent care are paramount. This report aims to equip potential residents with the information necessary to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Primary Transportation Mode**

For residents of 26170, personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of transportation for healthcare access. Driving times to medical facilities specializing in prostate cancer care are a critical factor. The closest comprehensive healthcare center, offering urology services and potential cancer treatment, is often in Parkersburg, WV, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away via **West Virginia Route 2** and **U.S. Route 50**. This route generally offers well-maintained roads, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours.

Other options include Marietta, Ohio, accessible via **West Virginia Route 7** and **Ohio State Route 7**. This drive, though shorter in distance, can take a similar amount of time depending on traffic and road conditions. Further afield, Morgantown, WV, and Columbus, OH, offer specialized cancer centers, but these destinations require significantly longer drives, potentially exceeding two to three hours.

The Prostate Cancer Score will consider these drive times, factoring in potential delays due to weather, road construction, and traffic. Shorter drive times will contribute positively to the score, reflecting easier access to potentially life-saving care.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Saint Marys and the surrounding areas are limited. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily focus on local transportation within Wood County, which is outside of Saint Marys. Accessibility for those with mobility limitations is a concern, as ADA-compliant features on buses are not guaranteed on all routes.

Therefore, relying solely on public transportation for accessing specialized prostate cancer care is not practical. The Prostate Cancer Score will reflect the limited availability and accessibility of public transit, assigning a lower score to this mode of transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the Saint Marys area, but their availability and reliability can fluctuate. Service areas and wait times are often limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Booking rides in advance, especially for medical appointments, is highly recommended.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, offer another option. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. While more reliable than ride-sharing, they often come with higher costs.

The Prostate Cancer Score will consider the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing and medical transport services. While these services can bridge the gap in transportation options, their limitations will be factored into the overall score.

**Healthcare Access and the Prostate Cancer Score**

The Prostate Cancer Score for 26170 will be a composite measure, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The primary factor, with shorter drive times to urology clinics and cancer centers receiving higher scores.
* **Public Transit Availability:** A lower score will be assigned due to the limited public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability and cost of these services will be factored in, with higher scores awarded for more reliable and affordable options.
* **Proximity to Specialized Care:** The distance to facilities offering comprehensive prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment will be considered.

The score will provide a numerical representation of healthcare access, with higher scores indicating better access to care. This score will help potential residents assess the ease of accessing healthcare services in Saint Marys, especially for individuals concerned about prostate cancer.

**Moving to Saint Marys: A Healthcare Perspective**

Moving to Saint Marys, WV, offers a unique lifestyle, but it is essential to consider healthcare access. While the town itself may not have extensive medical facilities, the proximity to Parkersburg and Marietta provides reasonable access to specialized care.

For individuals with a family history of prostate cancer or those over 50, regular screenings and consultations with a urologist are crucial. Understanding the transportation options and their associated costs is vital for planning healthcare needs.

The Prostate Cancer Score aims to provide a clear picture of healthcare access in 26170, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It is recommended to research local healthcare providers, confirm insurance coverage, and assess personal transportation capabilities before relocating.

**Conclusion: A Holistic Approach**

The Prostate Cancer Score is a starting point for evaluating healthcare access in Saint Marys. It highlights the importance of understanding transportation options, the availability of specialized medical services, and the potential costs associated with healthcare.

By considering these factors, potential residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require. Regular check-ups, early detection, and consistent treatment are essential for managing prostate cancer effectively. This report emphasizes the need for careful planning and proactive healthcare management when considering a move to Saint Marys, WV.