24239, Davenport, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24239, Davenport, Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 24239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Buchanan General Hospital with a distance of 13.21 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Davenport, VA (ZIP Code 24239)

Considering a move to Davenport, Virginia (ZIP code 24239)? This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, specifically evaluating the accessibility of healthcare, crucial for managing hypertension, a prevalent health concern. This score considers transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical services, allowing you to make an informed decision about healthcare access in your new home. We’ll delve into the specifics of navigating this rural landscape, offering a realistic picture of your commute to healthcare.

The “Hypertension Score” is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment, highlighting the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services significantly impact this score. Residents with hypertension require consistent medical attention, making reliable transportation a non-negotiable aspect of daily life.

Davenport, nestled in Buchanan County, presents unique challenges for healthcare access. The rugged terrain and limited public transportation options necessitate careful planning. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in surrounding towns, meaning a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods is almost guaranteed. This write-up explores these realities, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary arteries connecting Davenport to healthcare are Virginia State Route 83 and Virginia State Route 63. These winding roads, while scenic, can present challenges, particularly during inclement weather. Drive times are highly variable, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination.

The closest hospital, Buchanan General Hospital, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Davenport. This drive typically involves navigating Route 83 and then Route 63. While these roads are generally well-maintained, the mountainous terrain can make winter driving treacherous.

Specialist appointments often necessitate longer drives. For instance, a cardiologist in Bluefield, West Virginia, might require a 1.5-hour drive, involving Route 83, Route 63, and then Interstate 77. Similarly, access to specialized care in larger cities like Roanoke, Virginia, or Charleston, West Virginia, could involve multi-hour drives.

These extended drive times underscore the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for increased stress and inconvenience for individuals managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and emergency situations require timely access to medical care, making drive times a critical factor in the "Hypertension Score."

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Davenport are extremely limited. The area is largely rural, and a robust public transit system is not available. This significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it reduces the options for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to.

There is no fixed-route bus service operating within Davenport or connecting it to surrounding towns. This absence of public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

ADA accessibility is a non-issue because public transit is non-existent. This means individuals with disabilities requiring accessible transportation face significant challenges. This lack of accessibility further lowers the "Hypertension Score" for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not recommended due to potential delays and limited availability, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transportation services offer a more reliable option for individuals requiring assistance. These services often provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including stretcher transport if needed. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including First Medical Transportation and Med-Trans.

The cost of medical transportation can be a significant factor. Insurance coverage varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be substantial. Therefore, understanding insurance coverage for medical transportation is crucial when assessing the "Hypertension Score."

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

The "Hypertension Score" for Davenport, VA (ZIP code 24239) is moderate to low. The primary factor impacting this score is the limited availability of transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long drive times to access healthcare facilities significantly increase the challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

The lack of public transit and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further compound these challenges. While medical transportation services provide a viable alternative, their cost can be a barrier for some residents.

The "Hypertension Score" is also affected by the availability of medical specialists. While Buchanan General Hospital offers basic services, specialized care often requires travel to larger cities. This necessitates careful planning and coordination to ensure timely access to specialized medical expertise.

**Implications for Moving to Davenport:**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Davenport, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Owning a reliable vehicle is almost a necessity. Planning for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency situations is crucial.

Exploring medical transportation options and understanding insurance coverage is also highly recommended. Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider and understanding the available medical resources in the area is paramount.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive should carefully evaluate their healthcare access options before moving to Davenport. The lack of public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services can pose significant challenges.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for proactive planning and a realistic understanding of healthcare access in Davenport. While the rural setting offers a unique lifestyle, it also presents challenges in terms of transportation and healthcare access. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for ensuring effective hypertension management and overall well-being. This is crucial for any individual considering moving to Davenport, Virginia.