26138, Brohard, West Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 26138 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 8.65 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brohard (ZIP Code 26138)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change in Brohard, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26138), a community nestled amidst rolling hills and the gentle embrace of the Ohio River. For individuals managing asthma, the prospect of relocating here, or simply navigating daily life, necessitates a careful assessment of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities, providing a nuanced understanding of commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Brohard, ensuring they can prioritize their health needs within the context of local transportation realities.

The primary healthcare hub for Brohard residents is likely to be the Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, approximately 20 miles away. The journey by car, the most common mode of transportation, is primarily dictated by two major arteries: US Route 50 and Interstate 77. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes. However, this estimate is subject to the vagaries of West Virginia weather, particularly during winter months when snow and ice can significantly extend travel times. Traffic, while generally light, can be a factor during peak commuting hours, especially near Parkersburg.

Navigating from Brohard to Camden Clark Medical Center via US Route 50 is a straightforward route. The road, a two-lane highway for much of its course, offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. However, the lack of passing lanes in certain sections can lead to delays, especially behind slower-moving vehicles. Interstate 77 provides a faster, more direct route, although it requires a short drive to the nearest on-ramp. This highway, a major north-south corridor, is generally well-maintained, but occasional construction projects can cause temporary slowdowns.

Public transportation options within Brohard and the surrounding areas are limited. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are designed to serve the greater Parkersburg area, with minimal service extending into the more rural areas like Brohard. Currently, there are no direct bus routes that serve Brohard specifically. This severely restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The lack of reliable public transit is a significant factor to consider for individuals with asthma, particularly those who may experience sudden exacerbations.

MOVTA buses, however, are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. This accessibility is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, but the lack of service to Brohard renders these features largely irrelevant for residents of this ZIP code. The nearest bus stops are located in Parkersburg, requiring a separate transportation method to reach them. This adds another layer of complexity and time to the commute for healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area, but their presence in Brohard is less certain. Availability can fluctuate based on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could prove unreliable and potentially expensive. The cost of a ride to Parkersburg and back, coupled with potential surge pricing during peak hours, could be a significant financial burden for individuals with asthma, who may already face substantial medical expenses.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private ambulance services may provide transportation within the region. These services typically cater to individuals with specific medical needs, including those requiring stretcher transport or oxygen. However, they are often more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles and require advance booking. The availability of medical transportation services in Brohard should be confirmed prior to any relocation.

For individuals with asthma, healthcare access is not merely a matter of distance; it’s about reliability, affordability, and the ability to respond quickly to medical emergencies. The transportation landscape in Brohard presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning.

The Asthma Score for transportation access to healthcare in Brohard is moderate. While the drive to Camden Clark Medical Center is manageable, the lack of alternative transportation options significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those who may experience sudden asthma attacks. The absence of direct public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers.

Moving to Brohard requires a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Individuals with asthma should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore all available options. This may include identifying reliable transportation resources, establishing relationships with local medical providers, and developing an emergency plan that accounts for potential transportation delays. Prioritizing healthcare access is paramount when considering a move to this community.

The future of healthcare access in Brohard hinges on potential improvements to transportation infrastructure. Increased public transit service, expanded ride-sharing availability, and the development of community-based transportation programs could significantly enhance the Asthma Score for this ZIP code. Until such improvements materialize, individuals with asthma must navigate the existing transportation landscape with careful planning and a commitment to prioritizing their health.