26146, Friendly, West Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 26146, Friendly, West Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.60 percent of residents in 26146 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sistersville General Hospital with a distance of 5.60 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Friendly, WV (ZIP Code 26146)

The air in Friendly, West Virginia, nestled along the Ohio River, often carries the promise of tranquility. However, for individuals managing asthma, the journey to healthcare can be a complex equation, particularly when factoring in transportation. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the realities of healthcare access within ZIP Code 26146, examining the transportation landscape and its potential impact on residents living with this respiratory condition. We aim to paint a comprehensive picture, offering insights into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers in Friendly is the swiftness and reliability of reaching medical care during an exacerbation. The nearest hospitals equipped to handle acute asthma attacks are in Parkersburg, approximately 30 miles east. The most direct route involves navigating **West Virginia Route 2**, a scenic but often winding road that follows the Ohio River. During peak traffic hours, especially those associated with shift changes at local industries, the drive can take upwards of 45 minutes, potentially jeopardizing timely intervention.

Alternatively, one might opt for **County Route 10**, a less-traveled road that offers a slightly shorter distance. However, this route is known for its narrow lanes and limited visibility, especially during inclement weather. Navigating these roads requires careful consideration, particularly for individuals experiencing shortness of breath or other asthma-related symptoms. The time spent traveling to the nearest emergency room is critical, and any delays can have severe consequences.

Public transportation options in Friendly and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no established public bus system directly serving the community. This lack of public **transportation** significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive due to medical reasons, or are unable to afford private **transportation** options. This is a critical factor in assessing the overall "Asthma Score" for this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in this region. While they may be available, their reliability and availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to urgent medical needs. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, who may require immediate access to medical care. The potential wait times for a ride-share, coupled with the drive time to the hospital, could prove detrimental during an asthma flare-up.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized approach to addressing the needs of individuals with asthma. Ambulance services are available, but response times can vary depending on the location of the nearest emergency medical services (EMS) unit and the severity of the emergency. These services are equipped to provide immediate medical care and transport patients to the hospital. However, the cost of ambulance services can be substantial, which can be a barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

Beyond emergency situations, individuals with asthma require regular check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialized care. These routine appointments often necessitate travel to Parkersburg or other regional medical centers. The lack of reliable public **transportation** and the limitations of ride-sharing services can make it difficult for individuals to adhere to their prescribed treatment plans. This can lead to poorer asthma control and an increased risk of exacerbations.

The challenges in accessing healthcare in Friendly highlight the importance of proactive asthma management. This includes developing a comprehensive asthma action plan in consultation with a healthcare provider, carrying rescue inhalers at all times, and knowing the warning signs of an asthma attack. It also means being prepared to navigate the **transportation** hurdles that may arise.

For those considering **moving to Friendly**, WV, and living with asthma, careful consideration of the **transportation** landscape is essential. Assessing the availability of reliable **transportation** options, including the potential for ride-sharing services and the accessibility of medical transport, is crucial. This assessment should be a key factor in evaluating the overall quality of life and the ability to effectively manage asthma in this community.

The "Asthma Score" for Friendly, WV, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community offers a peaceful setting, the limitations in **transportation** options present significant challenges for individuals with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the unpredictability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical transport all contribute to a lower "Asthma Score." This score underscores the need for increased awareness of the challenges faced by asthma sufferers in this area and the importance of finding innovative solutions to improve **healthcare access**.

The absence of readily available public **transportation** and the limited presence of ride-sharing services necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport. This can create significant financial burdens for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The **transportation** infrastructure in this region is a critical factor in determining the overall "Asthma Score" and the ability of residents to effectively manage their condition.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Friendly, WV, reflects the need for a multi-faceted approach to improving **healthcare access** for individuals with asthma. This includes advocating for expanded public **transportation** options, supporting the availability of reliable ride-sharing services, and ensuring that medical transport services are readily accessible and affordable. By addressing these **transportation** barriers, the community can help create a healthier and more supportive environment for individuals living with asthma.