24280, Rosedale, Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 24280, Rosedale, Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.46 percent of residents in 24280 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell County Hospital with a distance of 8.12 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rosedale, Virginia (ZIP Code 24280)

The crisp mountain air of Rosedale, Virginia, offers a certain allure, drawing individuals seeking a quieter life. However, for those managing asthma, the serene landscape demands a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 24280, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access, particularly for individuals considering a move to this Appalachian community. We will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview to aid informed decision-making.

Rosedale, a small unincorporated community in Buchanan County, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area means that residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. This reliance emphasizes the importance of understanding drive times to medical facilities, especially during peak traffic hours or inclement weather, which can significantly impact travel. The Asthma Score considers these factors in its assessment.

The primary healthcare providers for Rosedale residents are located in neighboring towns and cities. The closest hospital, Buchanan General Hospital, is approximately a 30-minute drive via **Virginia Route 83** and **Virginia Route 63**. This drive, while manageable, can be affected by traffic, especially during school hours or on weekends. The route primarily consists of winding two-lane roads, requiring careful driving, particularly for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger hospitals in Abingdon, Virginia, or Bluefield, West Virginia. The drive to Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes via **Virginia Route 83** and **US Route 19**. This route involves a combination of state highways and a limited-access highway, offering a generally smoother ride. However, the distance and travel time can be a significant factor for those experiencing acute asthma episodes.

Bluefield Regional Medical Center in Bluefield, West Virginia, is another option, requiring a drive of approximately one hour and thirty minutes via **Virginia Route 83** and **US Route 460**. This route is similar to the Abingdon route, with a mix of state highways and a limited-access highway. However, the longer distance adds to the potential challenges for individuals with asthma.

Public transportation options in Rosedale are extremely limited. Buchanan County does not have a county-wide public transit system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their asthma symptoms or other health conditions. The absence of readily available public transit highlights the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. Securing a ride-share in Rosedale can be challenging, and the wait times may be considerable. This unreliability underscores the need for careful planning and pre-arranged transportation for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services are a crucial component of healthcare access for individuals with asthma who require assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services such as ambulance transport, wheelchair transport, and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often essential for individuals who are unable to drive or who require specialized medical care during transit.

**Med-Trans Corporation** and **Air Methods** are two nationally recognized providers that may serve the area, offering air ambulance services for critical medical needs. **Buchanan County EMS** provides ambulance services within the county, ensuring rapid response in emergency situations.

For non-emergency medical transportation, **Care Ride** and **First Call Medical Transport** are possible options that offer door-to-door transportation for medical appointments and other healthcare-related needs. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who cannot drive.

The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles within these medical transport services is crucial for individuals with disabilities. It is essential to verify the availability of ADA-compliant transportation when scheduling appointments. Individuals should inquire about the specific features of the vehicles, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, to ensure their needs are met.

When evaluating the Asthma Score for Rosedale, it is essential to consider the limitations of the available transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services can create significant barriers to healthcare access.

The Asthma Score for Rosedale is therefore influenced by the distances to healthcare facilities, the variability of drive times, and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. Individuals with asthma considering a move to Rosedale should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly.

Planning ahead is essential. Pre-arranging transportation for medical appointments, especially for routine check-ups and medication refills, is highly recommended. Individuals should establish relationships with medical transport providers and familiarize themselves with the services they offer.

Furthermore, individuals should consider the potential impact of seasonal changes and weather conditions on transportation. Winter weather, in particular, can make driving hazardous and increase travel times. Having backup plans for transportation, such as relying on family members or friends, is crucial.

Finally, individuals with asthma should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive asthma management plan that includes strategies for managing symptoms during travel and ensuring access to necessary medications and medical care. This plan should incorporate considerations for transportation challenges and potential delays.

In conclusion, while Rosedale offers a tranquil setting, healthcare access presents significant challenges for individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score for this area is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. Careful planning, pre-arranged transportation, and a proactive approach to asthma management are essential for ensuring access to healthcare in this beautiful but geographically challenging community. Considering a move to Rosedale requires a realistic assessment of these transportation challenges and a commitment to proactive healthcare management.