26134, Belmont, West Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 26134, Belmont, West Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.41 percent of residents in 26134 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 16.45 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Belmont, WV (ZIP Code 26134)

Moving to a new community, especially with a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This Asthma Score write-up for ZIP Code 26134, Belmont, West Virginia, provides a detailed assessment of transportation options to healthcare facilities, focusing on the practical realities of navigating the area. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for potential residents.

Belmont, nestled in Pleasants County, presents a unique landscape. The rural setting, while offering a slower pace of life, can complicate access to specialized medical care. The primary consideration for asthma sufferers is the ability to reach a physician quickly and reliably during an exacerbation. This assessment considers the strengths and weaknesses of the available transportation options.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation in Belmont is personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare is **West Virginia Route 2**, which follows the Ohio River. This road provides access to the larger towns and cities where healthcare facilities are concentrated. Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as **Camden Clark Medical Center** in Parkersburg, approximately 30 miles south, involves a drive of about 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.

Another option is the **Ohio River Scenic Byway**, which runs parallel to Route 2. While scenic, it may involve more winding roads and could potentially add travel time. Access to **Marietta Memorial Hospital** in Marietta, Ohio, is also possible, approximately 25 miles west, and takes around 40 minutes.

Local roads, like **County Route 2** and **County Route 7**, provide access to smaller towns and medical clinics. However, these roads are often less well-maintained and may be subject to seasonal closures due to weather, potentially impacting transportation. The reliability of these routes is a critical factor when considering healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options are extremely limited in Belmont. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. This deficiency directly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals unable to drive or who prefer not to.

There are no fixed-route buses or light rail systems. This absence necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. This scarcity of public transit is a significant factor influencing the Asthma Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The reliability of these services for urgent medical needs is uncertain. Residents should anticipate potential delays in securing a ride, especially during inclement weather.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare needs. These services typically require advance booking and may have limitations regarding the distance they serve.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, providing services to Belmont residents. **First Transit** and **MV Transportation** are two prominent providers. These companies offer a range of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. However, availability and scheduling can be factors.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Overview:**

The primary healthcare facility near Belmont is **Belmont Medical Clinic**, which offers primary care services. This clinic is a crucial resource for routine checkups and managing chronic conditions. However, for specialized care, residents must travel to larger medical centers.

**Camden Clark Medical Center** in Parkersburg offers a broader range of services, including pulmonology and emergency care. **Marietta Memorial Hospital** in Marietta, Ohio, also provides comprehensive healthcare options. The drive times to these facilities are crucial factors in assessing healthcare access.

**The Impact on Asthma Sufferers:**

For asthma sufferers, the availability of timely medical care is paramount. The limited public transportation options and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges. The potential for delays in reaching a hospital during an asthma attack can be concerning.

The Asthma Score for Belmont, WV, reflects the transportation challenges. Residents must carefully consider the potential travel times to healthcare facilities and the reliability of transportation options. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with medical transport providers and having a backup plan for emergencies, is crucial.

**Moving to Belmont: Considerations:**

When considering moving to Belmont, individuals with asthma should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. The rural setting presents unique challenges, and a proactive approach is necessary to ensure timely access to medical care.

Individuals should investigate the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and the potential for family or friends to provide transportation. Understanding the drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics is essential.

**Conclusion:**

The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 26134 highlights the complexities of healthcare access in Belmont, WV. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential for delays in ride-sharing services present challenges for asthma sufferers. Careful planning, including establishing relationships with medical transport providers and having a backup plan for emergencies, is crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare. The rural setting demands a proactive approach to managing healthcare needs, making a thorough assessment of transportation options a priority for potential residents.