Health Scores Near 24881, Roderfield, West Virginia
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The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 24881, Roderfield, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
100.00 percent of residents in 24881 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Welch Community Hospital with a distance of 5.89 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 24881, Roderfield, West Virginia
| Asthma Score | 20 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 65 |
| Provider Score | 23 |
| Hospital Score | 43 |
| Travel Score | 14 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 24881 | Roderfield | West Virginia |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.72 |
| 1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 20.26 |
| 2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 41.64 |
| 3 or More Cars | 100.00 | 100.00 | 35.38 |
Vehicular Access in 24881, Roderfield, West Virginia
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 24881
Moving to Roderfield, West Virginia, ZIP Code 24881, presents a unique set of challenges, particularly for individuals managing asthma. This analysis, a comprehensive "Asthma Score," assesses the accessibility of healthcare resources, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access in this rural community. The goal is to provide potential residents with a realistic understanding of the logistical hurdles they might face in managing their asthma effectively.
The primary concern for asthmatics is the speed and reliability of transportation to medical facilities. In the event of an asthma exacerbation, every minute counts. Therefore, the "Asthma Score" prioritizes rapid access to emergency care and routine appointments. The score will also highlight the availability of preventative care, such as pulmonologist visits and allergy testing, which are crucial for long-term asthma management.
**Drive Times and Road Networks:**
The road network in 24881 is characterized by winding mountain roads and limited highway access. The nearest hospital, **Welch Community Hospital**, is approximately 15 miles away. Driving time to this critical facility can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. Under ideal circumstances, the drive takes around 25-30 minutes via **US Route 52** and **WV Route 16**. However, heavy rain, snow, or even a minor accident can easily double or triple that time.
Accessing specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, requires travel to larger cities like Bluefield or Beckley. Bluefield, approximately 45 miles away, is reachable via **US Route 52** and **I-77**, with a drive time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes under optimal conditions. Beckley, a further distance of roughly 75 miles, requires a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily on **WV Route 16** and **I-64**. The extended travel times to these specialists are a significant concern for asthmatics, especially those with severe asthma.
The condition of the roads also plays a vital role. Mountain roads are prone to potholes, landslides, and closures, particularly during the winter months. These factors can further impede transportation and delay access to healthcare. The potential for road closures necessitates careful planning and preparedness for individuals with asthma.
Public transportation options in 24881 are extremely limited. The **Southern West Virginia Rural Transit Authority (SWVRTA)** offers some services, but their routes and schedules are infrequent. The availability of public transit is crucial for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their asthma. The SWVRTA operates a demand-response system, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This system is not ideal for emergency situations, and the limited operating hours and route coverage significantly restrict healthcare access.
The SWVRTA does provide some ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize their services. However, the limited frequency and coverage make it a less-than-ideal solution for routine medical appointments, let alone emergency situations. The lack of readily available public transportation is a significant drawback for individuals considering moving to Roderfield with asthma.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are virtually nonexistent in 24881. The rural nature of the area and the limited population density make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate. This lack of ride-sharing options severely limits the transportation choices for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.
Medical transport services are available, but their availability and cost vary. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and **CareRide** offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance they will travel. They are often used for routine appointments, but their availability in emergencies is not guaranteed.
Emergency medical services (EMS) are provided by local ambulance services. Response times can be variable, depending on the location of the emergency and the availability of personnel. The remoteness of 24881 and the potential for long transport times to the nearest hospital are critical considerations for asthmatics.
**Healthcare Access and Asthma Management:**
Beyond transportation, healthcare access includes the availability of medical professionals and resources. The nearest primary care physicians are located in Welch and possibly in the nearby towns of War or Keystone. Access to a pulmonologist requires travel to Bluefield or Beckley, as mentioned earlier. The availability of pharmacies and asthma-related medications is also a concern. The nearest pharmacies are likely located in Welch, requiring a drive to obtain prescriptions and other necessary supplies.
Asthma management requires consistent access to medication, regular check-ups, and prompt treatment for exacerbations. The limitations in transportation options in 24881 can significantly impact an individual's ability to adhere to their asthma treatment plan. This can lead to increased hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and a decreased quality of life.
**Asthma Score Summary and Recommendations:**
The "Asthma Score" for 24881 is relatively low, reflecting the challenges of accessing healthcare due to limited transportation options. The long drive times to medical facilities, the scarcity of public transportation, and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to timely and effective asthma management.
**Recommendations for individuals with asthma considering moving to Roderfield:**
* **Thoroughly assess your asthma severity and treatment needs.** Individuals with severe or poorly controlled asthma should carefully consider the limitations in healthcare access.
* **Ensure reliable transportation.** Owning a reliable vehicle is crucial. Consider the cost of vehicle maintenance and potential for road closures.
* **Develop an emergency plan.** This plan should include a backup transportation plan in case of emergencies, such as a trusted friend or family member.
* **Establish a relationship with a local primary care physician.** This physician can provide initial care and help coordinate referrals to specialists.
* **Explore the availability of home healthcare services.** These services can provide assistance with medication management and other asthma-related needs.
* **Consider the potential impact of seasonal changes and weather conditions.** Plan for potential delays in transportation during winter months.
* **Investigate the availability of telehealth services.** Telehealth can provide remote consultations with specialists and reduce the need for travel.
* **Contact the SWVRTA to inquire about their services and potential for future expansion.**
* **Advocate for improved transportation options.** Supporting initiatives to improve public transit or expand ride-sharing services can enhance healthcare access for all residents.
Moving to Roderfield, 24881, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals with asthma. While the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the close-knit community may be appealing, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. A thorough assessment of individual needs, careful planning, and proactive measures are essential for ensuring effective asthma management in this rural environment. The "Asthma Score" serves as a guide to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and quality of life in this unique community.
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