24465, Monterey, Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 24465, Monterey, Virginia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.49 percent of residents in 24465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 31.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bath Community Hospital with a distance of 29.29 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24465**

Assessing healthcare access for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Monterey, Virginia (ZIP Code 24465) requires a thorough examination of transportation options. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and necessary support services directly impacts quality of life. This analysis provides a "COPD Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of navigating the transportation landscape, particularly for those with limited mobility or respiratory challenges.

Monterey, nestled in Highland County, presents unique transportation hurdles. The rural setting translates to limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles. The COPD Score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services, assigning a score reflecting the overall accessibility of healthcare. The score is not a simple number but a narrative assessment, reflecting the practical realities faced by COPD patients.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions**

The primary arteries serving Monterey include US Route 220 and Virginia Route 84. Accessing specialized healthcare often necessitates travel to larger towns like Staunton or Harrisonburg. The drive to Staunton, approximately 60 miles east, along US-220 and I-64, typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, contingent on traffic and weather. I-64, while a major interstate, can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours or in the event of accidents.

Harrisonburg, about 70 miles northeast, presents a similar travel time, using US-220, VA-257, and I-81. I-81, a vital north-south corridor, is known for heavy truck traffic. Navigating these routes, especially during winter months, can be challenging. Snow and ice are common, potentially delaying or canceling appointments. This dependence on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation for healthcare access.

The secondary roads, VA-84 and others, are winding and can be narrow, adding to the complexity of travel. Road conditions vary, with potential for potholes and uneven surfaces, which can be difficult for individuals with breathing difficulties or mobility limitations. This impacts the COPD Score, suggesting that moving to Monterey requires careful consideration of road-worthiness and vehicle reliability.

**Public Transit Limitations**

Public transit options in Highland County are severely limited. There is no dedicated bus service operating within the county. The closest public transit options are in neighboring counties, requiring significant travel to reach. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of public transit dramatically lowers the COPD Score. The lack of alternatives restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or are unable to afford ride-sharing services. The absence of accessible public transit, including ADA-compliant features, is a significant concern.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Monterey. The limited demand in the rural area makes it economically unviable for these companies to operate. This absence forces residents to rely on other options, such as family, friends, or specialized medical transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or private providers, are available but often require advanced booking and can be costly. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance with mobility. The availability of these services, however, does not fully compensate for the lack of broader transportation options.

The COPD Score reflects the limited availability of ride-sharing services, impacting the overall accessibility of healthcare. The reliance on medical transportation services increases the financial burden and requires careful planning.

**Healthcare Access and Pharmacy Options**

Healthcare access in Monterey is primarily provided by the Highland County Medical Center, which offers primary care services. However, specialized care, such as pulmonology, often necessitates travel to Staunton or Harrisonburg. This travel time and distance significantly impact the COPD Score.

Pharmacy services are available locally, which is a positive factor. However, the availability of specific medications and the need for refills may still require travel to larger pharmacies in nearby towns. This factor influences the overall assessment of healthcare access.

The COPD Score considers the availability of local healthcare services and the need for travel to access specialized care and pharmacies.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines are essential when evaluating transportation options. The absence of public transit, with its ADA-compliant features, is a significant concern. The availability of accessible vehicles for medical transportation is crucial.

The COPD Score considers the availability of ADA-compliant transportation options. The lack of readily available accessible transportation reduces the score.

**Moving to Monterey: A COPD Perspective**

Individuals with COPD considering moving to Monterey must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The COPD Score is a critical consideration.

The remoteness of Monterey, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents healthcare access challenges. Those who are considering moving to Monterey should assess their ability to drive, the reliability of their vehicle, and their access to support networks.

**Conclusion: The COPD Score**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 24465 reflects the challenges in accessing healthcare due to limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services significantly impact the score. The score emphasizes the need for careful planning, financial resources, and a support network to ensure healthcare access for individuals with COPD in Monterey. The score is not a fixed number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the realities of transportation and healthcare access in this rural community.