The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
50.35 percent of residents in 26273 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 17.77 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia
COPD Score | 10 |
---|---|
People Score | 36 |
Provider Score | 41 |
Hospital Score | 33 |
Travel Score | 9 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 26273 | Huttonsville | West Virginia |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.72 |
1 Car | 25.00 | 25.00 | 20.26 |
2 Cars | 44.10 | 44.10 | 41.64 |
3 or More Cars | 30.90 | 30.90 | 35.38 |
Vehicular Access in 26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia
## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Huttonsville, WV (ZIP Code 26273)
The crisp mountain air of Huttonsville, West Virginia, in ZIP code 26273, offers a certain serenity. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the realities of healthcare access, specifically transportation, become a critical consideration. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of moving to Huttonsville, focusing on the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for COPD patients.
The ability to reach medical appointments swiftly and reliably is paramount. COPD patients often require frequent check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency care. Therefore, understanding the available transportation options is essential for maintaining a good quality of life in this rural setting. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective residents.
Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in this region. The town of Huttonsville itself is small, and the nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Elkins, approximately a 20-minute drive. The primary route is via US Route 250, a well-maintained two-lane highway that provides relatively direct access. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy snow or ice, travel on US 250 can become treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical medical care.
Another route option involves utilizing WV Route 92, which intersects with US 250. This road offers scenic views but can be more winding and may add travel time. The condition of these roads is generally good, but it is crucial to be prepared for potential delays due to weather or road maintenance. For those living in the more remote areas of the ZIP code, the drive times could be longer, and the availability of reliable transportation becomes even more vital.
Public transportation options are limited in Huttonsville. The Mountain TransitMountain Transit Authority (MTA) provides some bus services within Randolph County. However, service frequency and route coverage are limited, particularly for areas outside of Elkins. The MTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, which are crucial for COPD patients with mobility limitations. However, the schedule and route availability may not align with the specific needs of frequent medical appointments.
The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their condition. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services.
Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Elkins. However, their presence in Huttonsville is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable, potentially leading to missed appointments and compromised healthcare access.
Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients with specific needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area, including ambulance services. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offering a more reliable and accessible option than ride-sharing or public transit.
Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve prior authorization from insurance providers. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage. It is essential for prospective residents to research available NEMT providers and understand their associated costs and requirements.
The availability of medical transport services can be a crucial factor in determining the feasibility of moving to Huttonsville for individuals with COPD. The reliability and accessibility of these services directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.
Furthermore, the physical environment of Huttonsville and the surrounding areas must be considered. The mountainous terrain and potential for extreme weather conditions can exacerbate COPD symptoms. The availability of accessible housing and the proximity to essential services, such as pharmacies and oxygen suppliers, are also critical factors.
For individuals considering moving to Huttonsville with COPD, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and limitations is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their access to reliable transportation, and their financial resources to cover transportation costs.
The “COPD Score” for transportation in Huttonsville, WV (ZIP code 26273), reflects a mixed picture. While the primary access to healthcare is via driving on US Route 250, potential weather-related disruptions and the limited availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of NEMT services offers a critical lifeline for those unable to drive or reliant on alternative transportation.
The COPD Score also considers the importance of proactive planning. This includes establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, researching available transportation options, and developing contingency plans for unexpected circumstances.
In conclusion, while Huttonsville offers a tranquil setting, the transportation landscape presents challenges for COPD patients. Careful consideration of the available options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is crucial. The COPD Score assessment highlights the importance of comprehensive planning and proactive engagement with local resources to ensure reliable healthcare access and a good quality of life for individuals with COPD considering moving to Huttonsville. The availability of NEMT and the accessibility of US Route 250 are critical factors in this assessment.
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