25520, Glenwood, West Virginia Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 25520, Glenwood, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.26 percent of residents in 25520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's Medical Center with a distance of 13.22 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glenwood, WV (ZIP Code 25520)

Considering a move to Glenwood, West Virginia (ZIP code 25520), and managing arthritis? This analysis, the "Arthritis Score," assesses the accessibility of healthcare within the context of your mobility needs. We'll delve into the realities of transportation, a crucial factor for individuals with arthritis, examining drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing options. Understanding these elements is vital for ensuring consistent access to medical care, a cornerstone of managing this chronic condition.

The Arthritis Score isn't a numerical grade, but a descriptive evaluation. It highlights the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access within the Glenwood area, particularly for those experiencing the limitations of arthritis. It considers the practicalities of getting to appointments, acquiring medications, and attending physical therapy sessions. This information is designed to empower you to make an informed decision about your potential relocation.

Glenwood, nestled in the Appalachian foothills, offers a tranquil setting. However, its rural location significantly impacts transportation and healthcare access. The primary roads serving the area are the **Interstate 64 (I-64)**, the major east-west artery, and **US Route 35**, a north-south thoroughfare. Smaller roads like **West Virginia Route 17** and various county roads provide local access.

Driving is undoubtedly the most prevalent mode of transportation. The drive to the nearest hospitals and specialist offices will be a primary consideration. The **Cabell Huntington Hospital** in Huntington, approximately 45 miles west, is a major healthcare provider. Expect a drive time of around one hour, potentially longer during peak traffic hours or inclement weather. The route primarily involves taking I-64 West.

Another option is the **St. Mary's Medical Center**, also in Huntington. This is a similar distance and drive time, utilizing the same primary highway. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, including rheumatology, orthopedics, and pain management, crucial for arthritis care.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are available in the surrounding towns, such as Point Pleasant (approximately 20 miles north) and Milton (approximately 30 miles west). These may offer primary care and some specialized services, but the availability of rheumatologists and other specialists will be limited. Drive times to these locations are typically shorter, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

Public transportation options are limited in Glenwood. The **Huntington Area Rapid Transit (HART)** system provides bus service within the Huntington area. However, there is no direct public transit connecting Glenwood to Huntington. You would likely need to rely on a combination of personal transportation to reach a HART bus stop or a ride-sharing service to connect to the bus system.

HART does offer ADA-accessible buses, featuring ramps and wheelchair accommodations. However, the infrequent service and the lack of direct routes from Glenwood make public transportation a challenging option for individuals with arthritis.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Huntington area. Their availability in Glenwood itself is less certain, and wait times may be longer. This is an option for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can quickly accumulate, impacting your budget.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are another potential option. Companies like **LogistiCare** or **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** may provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require prior arrangements and may have eligibility requirements based on insurance coverage. They can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations, offering door-to-door service.

When moving to Glenwood, consider the impact of weather on transportation. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can significantly increase drive times and make travel hazardous. The availability of accessible transportation services may be limited during severe weather events. Ensure you have a plan for managing your healthcare needs during these times.

The availability of pharmacies is also a critical factor. Pharmacies are located in Huntington, Point Pleasant, and Milton. Accessing these pharmacies will require driving or utilizing ride-sharing or medical transportation. Consider the proximity of pharmacies to your potential residence and the ease of accessing them for medication refills.

The Arthritis Score for Glenwood, WV (25520) is moderate. While the area offers a peaceful environment, healthcare access presents significant challenges. Driving is the primary mode of transportation, with long drive times to major healthcare providers in Huntington. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services may be unreliable. Medical transportation services are available, but require planning and may have eligibility requirements.

For individuals with arthritis, the decision to move to Glenwood necessitates careful consideration of your transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Prioritize locations near major highways for easier access to healthcare facilities. Evaluate your ability to drive, and explore alternative transportation options, including ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Moving to Glenwood requires proactive planning. Contact local healthcare providers to confirm the availability of specialists and schedule appointments in advance. Research transportation options and establish a reliable plan for getting to your appointments. Consider the impact of weather and plan accordingly.

Glenwood offers a unique lifestyle. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape and healthcare access, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your healthcare needs are met. This will allow you to embrace the tranquility of Glenwood while effectively managing your arthritis.