24089, Fieldale, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24089, Fieldale, Virginia is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.38 percent of residents in 24089 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 20.41 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fieldale, Virginia (ZIP Code 24089)

Fieldale, Virginia, nestled in the heart of Henry County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 24089, aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical services, considering the significant impact of transportation on managing this chronic condition. This information will prove invaluable for anyone considering moving to Fieldale, as well as current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The "Hypertension Score" will be assessed based on several key factors: drive times to healthcare providers, availability and accessibility of public transportation, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transportation services. Each of these elements plays a critical role in ensuring timely access to appointments, medications, and ongoing monitoring, all crucial for effective hypertension management.

Fieldale’s geographic location, while offering a sense of tranquility, presents a transportation hurdle. The primary arteries for navigating the area are US-220, Virginia Route 680 (Fieldale Road), and Virginia Route 609 (Fairview Road). These roads are essential for reaching medical facilities, but their limitations must be considered. Traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying critical care for individuals experiencing hypertensive crises.

For example, the nearest major hospital, Carilion Henry County Hospital in Martinsville, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US-220, assuming moderate traffic. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily extend to 30 minutes or more. This extended travel time can be a significant concern for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, who may require immediate medical attention.

Smaller clinics and physician offices within Fieldale itself are limited. Residents often need to travel to Martinsville or even to Roanoke, approximately an hour’s drive via US-220 and US-58, for specialized care or access to a wider range of medical specialists. This longer commute adds to the complexity of managing hypertension, demanding more time, planning, and resources.

Public transportation options in Fieldale are extremely limited. The Martinsville-Henry County Transit System (MHTC) provides some service within the county, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to the needs of individuals with chronic health conditions like hypertension. Public transportation may be a viable option for some, but the sparse routes and limited frequency necessitate meticulous planning and often involve lengthy travel times, making it less accessible for those requiring frequent medical appointments. The MHTC does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the lack of comprehensive route coverage restricts its overall utility for healthcare access in Fieldale.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary significantly. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their presence in Fieldale is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Demand and driver availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty poses a challenge for individuals with hypertension who rely on scheduled appointments and medication refills.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. While these services are available in the region, they often come with a higher cost. However, they provide a valuable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. The availability of these services, including providers like MedTrans and others, is a positive aspect of healthcare access in the area, but their affordability and insurance coverage must be carefully considered.

The "Hypertension Score" for Fieldale, Virginia (24089) reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options pose significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services contribute to a higher score.

The score is further impacted by the distance to major healthcare facilities and the potential for extended drive times due to traffic. The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable, albeit potentially costly, alternative.

For individuals considering moving to Fieldale, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Planning for potential delays, exploring all available transportation options, and establishing a robust healthcare support system are crucial for successful hypertension management. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not solely about the availability of medical providers; it is also significantly influenced by the ease and efficiency of transportation.