26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.24 percent of residents in 26767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Potomac Valley Hospital with a distance of 19.41 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wiley Ford, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26767)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is multifaceted. It involves not just the quality of medical professionals, but also the accessibility of care. This assessment focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding Wiley Ford, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26767), to gauge the ease with which residents can access prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This “Prostate Cancer Score” considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access in this specific geographic area.

Wiley Ford, nestled in the panhandle of West Virginia, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting and limited public transportation options necessitate careful consideration of transportation logistics when evaluating healthcare accessibility. The goal is to paint a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking prostate cancer care. This is especially crucial for individuals considering moving to Wiley Ford, as they should be fully informed of the healthcare landscape.

The primary artery for travel in and out of Wiley Ford is Interstate 68. Traveling west on I-68, one can reach Cumberland, Maryland, in approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Cumberland is a significant healthcare hub, home to UPMC Western Maryland, a hospital offering comprehensive cancer services. The drive is relatively straightforward, but traffic congestion during peak hours can extend travel times. From Wiley Ford, the drive to Morgantown, West Virginia, another major healthcare center, takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via I-68 East.

For those preferring local routes, Route 220 provides an alternative, albeit slower, path to Cumberland. This road offers a more scenic drive, but it is often subject to traffic and potential delays. Route 220 also connects to various local roads, offering access to smaller towns and medical facilities. The drive time on Route 220 is usually longer than on I-68, potentially adding 10 to 15 minutes to the journey.

Public transportation options in Wiley Ford are extremely limited. The area is not served by a traditional bus system. This severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Prostate Cancer Score, as it creates a barrier for a vulnerable population. The nearest public transportation is in Cumberland, Maryland, but it is not easily accessible from Wiley Ford.

ADA-compliant features on public transit are irrelevant in this context, as there is no public transit. This absence of accessible transportation further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations seeking prostate cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods becomes even more critical.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cumberland area, but their presence in Wiley Ford is less certain. Availability often fluctuates based on driver availability and demand. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled medical appointments is a significant concern. This can add stress and uncertainty to the healthcare journey.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a vital consideration. Several providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The availability of medical transportation can significantly improve healthcare access for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals.

The nearest hospitals and cancer centers are located in Cumberland, Maryland, and Morgantown, West Virginia. UPMC Western Maryland in Cumberland offers a comprehensive cancer center, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment options. The drive time from Wiley Ford is relatively short, making it a convenient option for residents. The drive to Morgantown, while longer, provides access to a broader range of specialized cancer care services.

Beyond the major hospitals, smaller clinics and physician offices in the surrounding area offer primary care and some specialized services. However, these facilities may not have the same level of resources or expertise as the larger cancer centers. Patients may need to travel to Cumberland or Morgantown for advanced diagnostics or treatment.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Wiley Ford, West Virginia, reflects the challenges of transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present significant barriers to healthcare. While medical transportation services offer a crucial alternative, their cost and availability can be limiting.

The overall score for healthcare access in Wiley Ford is negatively impacted by the lack of public transportation and the potential difficulties in securing reliable transportation. This is especially true for those who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a personal vehicle. The drive times to major healthcare facilities are manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles creates a potential burden.

For individuals considering moving to Wiley Ford, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare services. The availability of medical transportation and the potential need for ride-sharing services should be factored into the decision-making process.

In conclusion, the Prostate Cancer Score for Wiley Ford highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers access to quality medical care, the challenges of transportation must be addressed to ensure that all residents can receive the care they need. The absence of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services require careful consideration. The availability of medical transportation and the proximity to healthcare hubs are important factors to consider when evaluating healthcare access in this rural community.