26164, Ravenswood, West Virginia Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 26164, Ravenswood, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.98 percent of residents in 26164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 35.47 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ravenswood (ZIP Code 26164)

The crisp air of Ravenswood, West Virginia, nestled along the Ohio River, holds a certain allure for those seeking a quieter life. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the promise of tranquility must be carefully weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This write-up, an "Asthma Score," analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 26164, focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced when commuting to healthcare appointments. It's a crucial consideration for anyone moving to Ravenswood, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

The primary factor influencing the Asthma Score is the availability and reliability of transportation. Ravenswood, a town of approximately 3,800 residents, is geographically isolated. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Parkersburg, approximately 30 miles south, and Charleston, roughly 100 miles southeast. This distance, coupled with the region's limited public transportation infrastructure, presents significant hurdles.

Driving is, undoubtedly, the most common mode of transportation. From Ravenswood, the primary route to Parkersburg involves traveling south on **West Virginia Route 2**, a scenic but often winding road that follows the Ohio River. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Alternatively, one can utilize **U.S. Route 33** east, then south on **Interstate 77** towards Parkersburg, a route that can be quicker but also involves tolls.

For healthcare access in Charleston, the journey becomes considerably more demanding. The most direct route involves taking **West Virginia Route 2** south to **Interstate 77** south. The drive, covering approximately 100 miles, can take upwards of two hours, particularly during peak traffic periods. The **West Virginia Turnpike**, a toll road, can expedite the journey, but it adds to the overall cost.

The condition of these highways is a critical consideration. While generally well-maintained, seasonal weather events, such as snow and ice during winter, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Delays due to accidents are also a possibility, increasing the stress on individuals with asthma who require timely medical attention.

Public transportation options are severely limited in the area. There is no local bus service within Ravenswood. The closest public transportation is the **Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA)**, which operates in the Parkersburg area. MOVTA provides fixed-route bus service, but its routes do not extend to Ravenswood. Even if they did, the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers would make it an impractical option for regular healthcare appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on any potential public transit options is a crucial consideration. Individuals with asthma may also have mobility limitations, and the lack of accessible transportation would significantly restrict their healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area, but their presence in Ravenswood is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, a gamble. The cost can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including **CareRide** and **MedTransport**. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, they often require advance booking and can be costly, especially for longer distances. The availability of these services in Ravenswood and their capacity to meet the needs of individuals with asthma should be carefully investigated.

The Asthma Score for Ravenswood (26164) is, therefore, negatively impacted by the following factors: the geographical isolation of the town, the limited public transportation infrastructure, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on driving for healthcare access. While medical transportation services offer a viable solution, their cost and the need for advance booking can be a deterrent.

Individuals considering moving to Ravenswood with asthma must carefully assess their healthcare needs and the available transportation options. Proximity to healthcare facilities is a key consideration. The ability to drive, or access reliable transportation, is paramount. A thorough assessment of potential healthcare providers in the Parkersburg and Charleston areas, and their respective transportation policies, is essential.

The Asthma Score is further influenced by the availability of emergency services. While Ravenswood has a local emergency medical service (EMS), the response time to a medical emergency can be affected by the town's geographical location and the distances involved in transporting patients to the nearest hospitals.

The overall Asthma Score for Ravenswood is moderate, with the potential for improvement. The availability of medical transportation services offers a safety net, but the reliance on driving and the limited public transportation options remain significant challenges. Individuals with asthma should prioritize researching healthcare providers in the area, investigating the availability and cost of medical transportation services, and considering the potential impact of weather conditions on their healthcare access. Careful planning and a proactive approach are essential for managing asthma effectively in this beautiful, but geographically isolated, community.