24265, Keokee, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 24265, Keokee, Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.48 percent of residents in 24265 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lee County Community Hospital with a distance of 7.31 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keokee, Virginia (ZIP Code 24265)

The crisp mountain air of Keokee, Virginia, in ZIP Code 24265, holds a certain allure. For those considering a move, particularly individuals managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within and around Keokee, providing a comprehensive assessment for prospective residents. The goal is to illuminate the realities of navigating the local landscape while considering the specific needs of those with respiratory sensitivities.

Keokee, nestled within Lee County, Virginia, presents a unique transportation challenge. The area is characterized by its rural setting, with limited public transit options. The primary mode of transportation is, therefore, the personal vehicle. This reliance on cars necessitates careful consideration of drive times, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation for medical appointments.

The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Pennington Gap, approximately 15 miles to the west, and Norton, roughly 30 miles to the north. The primary route to Pennington Gap is via **State Route 610** and then **US Route 58**. This drive, under ideal conditions, takes around 25-30 minutes. However, road conditions can vary, especially during inclement weather, potentially extending travel times. The route is predominantly rural, with limited traffic, but the winding mountain roads demand careful driving.

Traveling to Norton involves navigating **State Route 610** to **US Route 58**, then connecting to **US Route 23**. This journey, covering a greater distance, typically takes 45-60 minutes. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the increase in distance and potential for traffic, particularly near Norton, must be factored in.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in this region. Lee County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The lack of public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This absence underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in this area, though their availability is not guaranteed. The rural nature of Keokee and the surrounding areas means that ride availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Booking a ride may require advance planning and potentially longer wait times. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with asthma, who may require urgent medical attention.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable option. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services, such as **CareRide** and **LogistiCare**, offer door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, it is essential to verify insurance coverage and pre-book these services well in advance, especially for appointments in Pennington Gap or Norton.

Healthcare access in Keokee is, therefore, inextricably linked to transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, creates potential challenges. Individuals with asthma must carefully plan their transportation to medical appointments, factoring in drive times, road conditions, and potential delays.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a valuable lifeline, but pre-planning and confirmation of insurance coverage are essential. The distance to healthcare facilities in Pennington Gap and Norton necessitates proactive measures to ensure timely access to medical care.

The Asthma Score for Keokee, Virginia, reflects these factors. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the limited transportation options and the distances to healthcare facilities present challenges for individuals with asthma. The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services.

The positive aspects include the availability of medical transportation services and the relatively low traffic volume. However, the long drive times to healthcare facilities, the potential for inclement weather-related delays, and the limited options for those without personal vehicles contribute to a moderate Asthma Score.

For individuals considering moving to Keokee with asthma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and a proactive approach to securing reliable transportation for medical appointments are crucial. This includes identifying and contacting medical transportation providers, establishing a network of support for transportation assistance, and understanding the limitations of ride-sharing services.

Furthermore, the potential for exacerbations during travel, such as exposure to allergens or changes in air quality, must be considered. Individuals should carry their rescue inhalers and any other necessary medications, and be prepared to manage their asthma symptoms while en route to medical appointments.

In conclusion, while Keokee offers a peaceful setting, prospective residents with asthma must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape and proactively plan for healthcare access. The Asthma Score reflects the need for careful consideration of transportation options, the importance of pre-planning, and the crucial role of medical transportation services in ensuring timely access to medical care. The decision to move to Keokee should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and a commitment to ensuring the individual's healthcare needs are met. The journey to healthcare in Keokee demands careful planning and proactive management, highlighting the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access in this rural Virginia community.