26571, Farmington, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26571, Farmington, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.15 percent of residents in 26571 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Marion with a distance of 6.77 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Farmington, WV (ZIP Code 26571)

The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis can loom large, demanding immediate access to specialized care. Understanding the landscape of healthcare access is paramount, especially for those considering a move to Farmington, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26571). This write-up offers a detailed assessment of the transportation infrastructure, its impact on healthcare access, and ultimately, a "Prostate Cancer Score" designed to inform decisions related to this critical aspect of well-being.

Farmington, nestled within Marion County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a quieter, more rural lifestyle, it also necessitates careful consideration of transportation options to ensure timely and efficient access to medical facilities, including those specializing in prostate cancer treatment. The ability to quickly reach a urologist, radiation oncologist, or surgical center can significantly impact treatment outcomes and overall quality of life.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Farmington is **US Route 19**, a vital thoroughfare connecting the town to larger population centers. Traveling south on US-19 provides access to Fairmont, the county seat, and a hub for medical services. The drive, typically under 20 minutes, is generally straightforward, though traffic can become congested during peak hours.

Further afield, **Interstate 79** offers a more direct route to Morgantown, home to West Virginia University's (WVU) Medicine facilities, including the WVU Cancer Institute. This drive, roughly 45 minutes, provides access to a comprehensive range of cancer specialists and advanced treatment options. However, this route is subject to the vagaries of weather, particularly during winter months, which can significantly impact travel times.

Alternative routes include secondary roads, such as **County Route 19/14** and **County Route 19/15**, which offer scenic drives but are often winding and slower. These routes might be useful for avoiding traffic on US-19, but they are not recommended for urgent medical situations.

Public transportation options in Farmington are limited. The **Marion County Transit Authority (MCTA)** provides bus service within the county. However, the routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities, particularly those outside of Fairmont. While the MCTA strives to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, the limited service frequency and route coverage present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of robust public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a convenient alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar and other regional providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While a valuable resource, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly.

The landscape of healthcare access in Farmington is also influenced by the availability of local medical facilities. While Fairmont offers several primary care physicians and specialists, the more advanced cancer treatment centers are located in Morgantown. This necessitates considering the drive times and transportation options when choosing a healthcare provider.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Farmington (ZIP Code 26571) considers several factors: the proximity to specialized cancer care facilities, the reliability of transportation options, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

**Prostate Cancer Score Methodology:**

The score is based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest level of healthcare access. The score is calculated by assessing the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Specialized Care (40%):** This considers the average drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, such as the WVU Cancer Institute.
* **Reliability of Transportation (30%):** This evaluates the consistency and availability of transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.
* **Availability of Public Transit (15%):** This assesses the frequency, coverage, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Cost of Transportation (15%):** This considers the financial burden of transportation, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation costs.

**Prostate Cancer Score for Farmington (ZIP Code 26571): 6.0/10**

**Analysis:**

Farmington's score of 6.0 reflects a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses. The relatively short drive to Fairmont offers access to basic medical care. However, the longer drive to Morgantown for specialized cancer treatment, coupled with the limited public transit options, lowers the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some flexibility, but their cost and availability can be a concern.

**Recommendations for Residents and Potential Movers:**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When choosing a primary care physician, consider those located in Fairmont or Morgantown to facilitate easier access to specialists.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Familiarize yourself with ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and the MCTA routes.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance, especially those requiring travel to Morgantown.
* **Consider Insurance Coverage:** Ensure your health insurance plan covers transportation costs and provides access to out-of-network providers if necessary.
* **Advocate for Improved Healthcare Access:** Support initiatives that improve public transit, expand access to ride-sharing, and increase the availability of medical services in the area.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Farmington offers a lifestyle change, but it demands careful consideration of healthcare access. While the town provides a tranquil environment, the transportation challenges necessitate proactive planning and resourcefulness. Understanding the "Prostate Cancer Score" and its underlying factors empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensures timely access to the care they deserve. Prioritizing healthcare access is crucial for anyone considering moving to Farmington, and the recommendations provided will help navigate the local landscape.