25911, Raleigh, West Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 25911, Raleigh, West Virginia is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 25911 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beckley Va Medical Center with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25911**

Assessing healthcare accessibility for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in ZIP Code 25911 necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and specialized medical transport, recognizing the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. For those considering moving to Raleigh, understanding this score is paramount.

The primary challenge in 25911 lies in its rural character, which significantly impacts transportation. The area is characterized by limited public transit and a reliance on personal vehicles. Driving to healthcare facilities is the most common mode of transport. The COPD Score will reflect this reality, emphasizing the importance of reliable personal transportation.

**Drive Time Analysis**

The nearest major healthcare providers are located in Beckley, approximately 30 miles away. Driving to the Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital (ARH) typically involves navigating the winding roads of West Virginia. The primary route is via US-19 South, a well-maintained but often congested highway. Drive times can fluctuate considerably, averaging 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Alternative routes include WV-3 South, which offers a slightly shorter distance but can be slower due to its more rural nature and frequent stop signs. These routes are crucial for those seeking specialized pulmonary care or emergency services. The COPD Score will reflect the variability in drive times, accounting for peak hours and potential delays.

The journey to Charleston, WV, a larger metropolitan area with more extensive healthcare options, is considerably longer. This trip involves traveling approximately 80 miles, primarily via I-64 East. Drive times can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a less practical option for routine appointments or urgent care. This longer travel time will negatively impact the COPD Score.

**Public Transit Assessment**

Public transportation options in 25911 are severely limited. The Beckley Raleigh County Transit Authority (BRCTA) provides minimal service in the area. BRCTA primarily focuses on routes within Beckley, offering limited routes that extend into more rural areas. These routes are infrequent, with service often limited to weekdays.

The BRCTA buses are generally ADA-accessible, featuring ramps and designated seating. However, the limited frequency and route coverage make them a less viable option for individuals with COPD, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments. The COPD Score will heavily penalize the lack of reliable public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Evaluation**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in 25911. Availability is inconsistent, and wait times can be prolonged, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access is unreliable.

Medical transport services are available, but their cost and availability can be significant barriers. Companies like MedTrans and LifeCare offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, posing a financial burden for many residents. The COPD Score will consider the cost and availability of medical transport services.

**Overall COPD Score and Implications**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 25911 is significantly impacted by the challenges in transportation. The score will reflect the following:

* **Drive Time:** The reliance on personal vehicles and the variable drive times to healthcare facilities negatively affect the score.
* **Public Transit:** The lack of reliable public transit significantly lowers the score.
* **Ride-Share:** The inconsistent availability of ride-share services further reduces the score.
* **Medical Transport:** The cost and limited availability of medical transport services also contribute to a lower score.

The overall score will indicate a high level of difficulty in accessing healthcare for individuals with COPD in 25911. The score will emphasize the importance of having a reliable personal vehicle or access to support networks for transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Raleigh, the COPD Score in 25911 highlights the importance of researching healthcare access in any new location. Access to healthcare is a critical consideration for individuals managing chronic conditions.

**Recommendations**

Improving healthcare access in 25911 requires a multi-faceted approach.

* **Advocacy for Public Transit:** Increased investment in public transit, including extended routes and increased frequency, is essential. This could involve partnering with BRCTA or exploring alternative transportation models.
* **Ride-Share Initiatives:** Encouraging ride-share companies to expand their services in the area through incentives or partnerships.
* **Community Support:** Establishing a community-based transportation network, such as volunteer driver programs, to assist individuals with COPD in getting to appointments.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** Promoting telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management.
* **Healthcare Facility Outreach:** Encouraging healthcare facilities to offer transportation assistance programs or partner with local organizations to provide transportation support.

By addressing these challenges, the COPD Score for 25911 can improve, ensuring that individuals with COPD have access to the healthcare they need. The score is a crucial tool for assessing healthcare access and guiding efforts to improve transportation options, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.