24211, Abingdon, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24211, Abingdon, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.47 percent of residents in 24211 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.69 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24211**

Abingdon, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 24211, explores the complexities of transportation and its impact on accessing essential medical services, offering a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods. This information is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Abingdon, especially individuals managing hypertension.

The foundation of our "Hypertension Score" rests on the premise that timely access to healthcare is paramount for managing hypertension. Consistent medical appointments, medication refills, and specialist consultations are vital. The further a patient must travel, the greater the potential for delays, missed appointments, and compromised health outcomes.

**Roadways and Drive Times**

The primary arteries of transportation in and around Abingdon are Interstate 81 (I-81), U.S. Route 11 (Lee Highway), and Virginia State Route 19 (Porterfield Highway). These roadways dictate the accessibility of healthcare facilities, including the Ballad Health facilities, such as Johnston Memorial Hospital, and various clinics and physician offices.

Driving times are a critical factor. During peak traffic hours, which can be unpredictable on I-81, especially near major interchanges, travel times can increase significantly. A typical commute to Johnston Memorial Hospital from various points within 24211 might range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. Traveling to specialist offices located further away, perhaps in Bristol or Kingsport, Tennessee, via I-81, could extend the commute to 30-60 minutes, or longer.

The condition of the roads also influences travel times. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can significantly impact drive times and accessibility, especially for those living in more rural areas within the ZIP code. Road closures due to accidents can also create significant delays. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for individuals managing hypertension.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in Abingdon are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider is the Bristol-based BRISTOL, TN/VA Transit System, which offers bus routes within the region. However, the routes and frequency of service within 24211, and specifically to healthcare facilities, are limited.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. While BRISTOL, TN/VA Transit System strives to provide accessible services, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can create significant barriers to healthcare access. A patient with hypertension, facing mobility limitations, could struggle to attend regular appointments.

The lack of robust public transportation necessitates reliance on other modes of transportation for healthcare access. This deficiency directly impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it increases the difficulty and potential delays in reaching medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Abingdon area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas within 24211.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services, often provided by private companies, can offer a more reliable and convenient option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a significant barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes. This financial burden further impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it can affect the frequency with which individuals can access necessary medical care.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" is a composite measure that takes into account the factors described above: drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. It is designed to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare in 24211.

A high "Hypertension Score" indicates a greater degree of accessibility, with shorter commute times, reliable public transit, and readily available ride-sharing and medical transportation options. A low score suggests significant barriers to healthcare access, with longer commute times, limited public transit, and potentially higher costs associated with alternative transportation methods.

Individuals managing hypertension require consistent access to healthcare. The "Hypertension Score" is, therefore, a critical tool for evaluating the suitability of 24211 for those with hypertension.

**Moving to Abingdon and Hypertension Management**

For individuals considering moving to Abingdon and managing hypertension, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable transportation, and the ability to afford transportation costs are all vital factors.

Living near a major thoroughfare, such as Lee Highway, might provide easier access to healthcare facilities. However, this must be balanced against the potential for increased traffic congestion. Exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services in the area is also recommended.

The "Hypertension Score" can be used as a guide to assess the impact of transportation on healthcare access in different areas of 24211. Individuals can use this information to make informed decisions about where to live and how to best manage their hypertension.

**Conclusion**

Access to healthcare in 24211, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is significantly influenced by transportation. Drive times, the limited availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all play a crucial role. This "Hypertension Score" analysis provides a framework for understanding these complexities and making informed decisions about healthcare access.