24228, Clintwood, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24228, Clintwood, Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.00 percent of residents in 24228 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dickenson Community Hospital with a distance of 0.26 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clintwood, VA (ZIP Code 24228)

The quiet embrace of Clintwood, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a unique charm for those seeking a slower pace. However, the bucolic setting presents challenges when it comes to accessing vital healthcare, particularly for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up delves into the complexities of transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 24228, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment to gauge the ease with which individuals can reach medical appointments and essential healthcare services. This is crucial for anyone considering moving to Clintwood, as understanding transportation limitations is paramount for maintaining health and well-being.

The primary arteries of movement in and around Clintwood are Route 83 and Route 23. Route 83, a winding two-lane road, serves as the main thoroughfare connecting Clintwood to neighboring communities. Route 23, a more significant highway, provides a link to larger cities and regional medical centers. The drive times to healthcare facilities are directly impacted by these roads. The mountainous terrain and winding nature of the roads often extend travel times, adding stress for individuals with hypertension, where minimizing exertion and ensuring timely access to care is paramount.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The primary provider in the area is the Dickenson County Public Transportation system. However, the availability of routes and frequency of service are restricted, especially for those requiring specialized care. The system primarily operates within the county, and access to medical facilities outside of Dickenson County can be challenging. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is limited, potentially creating barriers for individuals with mobility impairments. This lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, making healthcare access more difficult for a considerable portion of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Clintwood. The sparse population and geographical isolation make it difficult for these services to establish a sustainable presence. This lack of ride-sharing options further restricts healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of these services contributes negatively to the Hypertension Score, compounding the challenges faced by individuals managing their health.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several companies operate in the region, including Appalachian Regional Healthcare and various private ambulance services. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and they often require advance booking, potentially creating delays in accessing urgent care. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. This factor further complicates the Hypertension Score assessment.

The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in surrounding counties. The Dickenson County Medical Center, located in Clintwood, offers primary care services and some specialized care. However, for more complex medical needs, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in Norton, VA (approximately a 45-minute drive via Route 83 and Route 58A), or to facilities in Pikeville, KY (approximately a 1-hour drive via Route 23). These extended drive times can be a significant burden for individuals with hypertension, especially during emergencies.

The Hypertension Score for Clintwood, VA (24228) is, therefore, negatively impacted by several factors. The limited public transportation options, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport contribute to a higher level of difficulty in accessing healthcare. The drive times to specialized medical facilities, the mountainous terrain, and the potential for inclement weather further exacerbate these challenges.

This score reflects the inherent difficulties in accessing timely and convenient healthcare for residents with hypertension. It highlights the need for careful consideration of transportation options and healthcare access when considering moving to Clintwood. Individuals with hypertension should proactively research available medical transportation services, establish relationships with local healthcare providers, and develop contingency plans for accessing care in emergencies.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is undeniable. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to reach medical appointments, obtain medications, and access emergency care is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. The challenges in transportation in Clintwood, VA, directly impact the Hypertension Score, underscoring the importance of careful planning and proactive management of healthcare needs.

For residents with hypertension, the need for regular check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialists is critical. The lack of readily available transportation options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress, all of which can negatively impact blood pressure control. The longer drive times to specialized medical facilities can also lead to fatigue and increased anxiety, further complicating the management of hypertension.

The limited availability of ADA-accessible transportation options also creates barriers for individuals with mobility impairments, further hindering their ability to access healthcare. This highlights the need for increased investment in accessible transportation services to ensure that all residents can access the care they need.

The cost of transportation, whether through medical transport services or personal vehicle expenses, can also be a significant burden for individuals with hypertension, particularly those with limited financial resources. The financial strain can lead to delays in seeking care or skipping appointments, further impacting blood pressure control and overall health.

The Hypertension Score for Clintwood, VA (24228) is a complex assessment, reflecting the interplay of various factors that impact healthcare access. The limited public transportation options, the absence of ride-sharing services, the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport, and the drive times to specialized medical facilities all contribute to a higher level of difficulty in accessing healthcare.

For individuals considering moving to Clintwood, VA, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Proactive planning, including researching available medical transportation services, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and developing contingency plans for accessing care in emergencies, is essential for maintaining health and well-being. The unique charm of Clintwood must be balanced with a realistic assessment of the challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The mountains are beautiful, but the journey to healthcare can be a challenge.