The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 24260, Honaker, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
53.33 percent of residents in 24260 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell County Hospital with a distance of 9.65 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 24260, Honaker, Virginia
Asthma Score | 4 |
---|---|
People Score | 10 |
Provider Score | 36 |
Hospital Score | 17 |
Travel Score | 34 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 24260 | Honaker | Virginia |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.42 | 0.42 | 2.76 |
1 Car | 11.98 | 11.98 | 18.70 |
2 Cars | 34.94 | 34.94 | 40.01 |
3 or More Cars | 52.66 | 52.66 | 38.53 |
Vehicular Access in 24260, Honaker, Virginia
## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Honaker, VA (ZIP Code 24260)
The crisp mountain air of Honaker, Virginia, a place where the Clinch River carves its path through the heart of Appalachia, often feels like a breath of fresh air. But for residents managing asthma, the reality of navigating healthcare access, especially concerning transportation, can be a significant challenge. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" analysis, examines the transportation landscape for residents of ZIP Code 24260, focusing on the practicalities of reaching medical facilities.
The Asthma Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment of the ease and accessibility of healthcare for individuals with asthma. It considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture for those already residing in Honaker or considering moving to this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.
The primary healthcare provider for Honaker residents is the Russell County Medical Center in Lebanon, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route involves traveling on **State Route 610** (also known as Honaker Highway) and then connecting to **US Route 19**. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be impacted by weather, particularly during the winter months, potentially extending travel times and exacerbating asthma symptoms.
For those without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. The primary provider of public transportation in the region is the Mountain Empire Older Citizens (MEOC). MEOC operates a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while providing a crucial lifeline for many, is not ideal for urgent medical needs. Availability may also be restricted, and travel times can be significantly longer due to the need to accommodate multiple passengers and varied destinations. The MEOC system has limited ADA accessibility features, which may present challenges for some individuals with asthma who also have mobility issues.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are extremely limited in Honaker and the surrounding areas. The availability of drivers is inconsistent, and wait times can be considerable, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments would be highly unreliable, potentially leading to missed appointments and compromised healthcare access. This lack of readily available ride-sharing significantly impacts the Asthma Score.
Specialized medical transport services are available, but their use often depends on insurance coverage and the severity of the individual's condition. These services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer a vital link to healthcare for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, their costs can be substantial, and prior authorization from insurance companies is often required, creating potential delays and barriers to access.
The location of Honaker, nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The mountainous terrain, while beautiful, contributes to longer travel times and potential road closures due to weather events. This geographic isolation makes it more difficult to reach healthcare providers and pharmacies, especially during emergencies.
The Asthma Score for transportation to healthcare in Honaker, VA (24260) is, therefore, moderate to low. While the drive to the Russell County Medical Center is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier for those without transportation. The limited public transit options, unreliable ride-sharing, and dependence on specialized medical transport services, which can be costly and require advance planning, further reduce the score.
For individuals with asthma considering moving to Honaker, careful consideration of transportation needs is crucial. Assessing the availability of reliable transportation options, including family, friends, or community support networks, is essential. Planning for potential weather-related disruptions and ensuring access to emergency medical transport services are also vital.
The Asthma Score is not just about drive times and transit routes; it is about the overall ability of individuals with asthma to access the healthcare they need. It is about ensuring that the beauty and tranquility of Honaker do not come at the expense of their health. The community’s commitment to supporting healthcare access is paramount.
The local community plays a crucial role in supporting healthcare access. Churches, community centers, and volunteer organizations can offer assistance with transportation, particularly for medical appointments. These informal support networks can help bridge the gaps created by limited public transit and ride-sharing options.
Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can significantly improve the Asthma Score. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits and minimizing the impact of transportation challenges. The expansion of telehealth infrastructure and access in Honaker would be a significant benefit to residents with asthma.
The development of a robust healthcare access plan, encompassing transportation, telehealth, and community support, is essential for improving the Asthma Score. This plan should prioritize the needs of individuals with asthma, ensuring they can easily and affordably access the medical care they require.
The future of healthcare access in Honaker depends on collaborative efforts. Healthcare providers, local government, community organizations, and residents must work together to address the transportation challenges and improve the Asthma Score. This collaborative approach will ensure that Honaker remains a welcoming and healthy community for all.
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