24245, Dungannon, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 24245, Dungannon, Virginia is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

17.42 percent of residents in 24245 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lonesome Pine Hospital with a distance of 16.13 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dungannon, Virginia (ZIP Code 24245)

The crisp mountain air of Dungannon, Virginia, holds a certain allure. Nestled in the heart of Scott County, this small community offers a slower pace of life, a strong sense of neighborliness, and breathtaking natural beauty. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare in this rural setting demands careful consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 24245, assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services, including specialists and emergency care, crucial for asthma management.

The primary concern for residents of Dungannon is **transportation**. The very nature of rural living presents challenges. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in neighboring towns, requiring travel over winding mountain roads. This impacts **healthcare access** significantly, especially during asthma exacerbations when time is of the essence. For those **moving to Dungannon**, understanding the transportation options is paramount for ensuring adequate asthma care.

The primary artery for travel within Scott County is **US Route 58**, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the valleys and mountains. Access to healthcare facilities in Kingsport, Tennessee, or Abingdon, Virginia, often necessitates travel on this route. The drive to Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, a regional hospital with pulmonology services, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The journey involves navigating US-58 East, then transitioning onto Interstate 26 West.

The drive to Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, another option with respiratory care, is a similar duration, approximately 40 to 55 minutes. This trip involves traveling on US-58 West, then connecting to Interstate 81 South. Both routes present potential delays due to traffic, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. The winding nature of US-58 can also contribute to travel time and difficulty, especially for those experiencing asthma symptoms.

Beyond the major highways, local roads such as **State Route 72** and **State Route 614** provide access to smaller communities and local medical offices. However, these roads are often narrower, with limited shoulders and potentially challenging driving conditions, especially during winter months. These routes may offer a shorter distance to a local doctor's office, but they are not necessarily the best option in an emergency.

Public transportation options in Dungannon are extremely limited. Scott County does not have a dedicated public transit system that serves the area. This lack of **transportation** options poses a significant hurdle for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their asthma symptoms or other medical conditions. This lack of public transit directly impacts **healthcare access**, especially for those with limited mobility or financial resources.

The absence of public transit highlights the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation for accessing healthcare. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, their presence in Dungannon is not guaranteed. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. This uncertainty can create significant anxiety for individuals with asthma, who may need to reach a medical facility quickly.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulances, are available in the area. However, the response time can be affected by the rural location and the distance to the nearest hospital. The ambulance service is equipped to handle medical emergencies, but the delay in reaching the hospital can be critical during a severe asthma attack.

The cost of transportation also presents a barrier to **healthcare access**. The cost of gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can be substantial, particularly for individuals with limited incomes. This financial burden can make it difficult for people with asthma to attend regular check-ups, specialist appointments, and other necessary medical services.

For individuals **moving to Dungannon** with asthma, careful consideration of these transportation challenges is crucial. Before relocating, it is essential to assess the distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential costs involved. Establishing a relationship with a local physician or pulmonologist before the move is also recommended.

Furthermore, individuals with asthma should develop a comprehensive asthma action plan that includes instructions on how to manage their condition, including medication usage, trigger avoidance, and emergency procedures. This plan should be readily available and shared with family members, caregivers, and anyone who may be responsible for providing assistance during an asthma attack.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Dungannon requires a proactive approach. Residents with asthma should explore all available resources, including local medical offices, pharmacies, and community health centers. Building a strong support network of family, friends, and healthcare providers is vital.

For individuals **moving to Dungannon**, understanding the limitations of **transportation** options is essential. The remoteness of the area demands a strategic approach to healthcare management. Careful planning, proactive communication with healthcare providers, and a well-defined asthma action plan are essential for ensuring the best possible quality of life for those managing asthma in this beautiful, yet challenging, rural environment.