24244, Duffield, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24244, Duffield, Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.21 percent of residents in 24244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lonesome Pine Hospital with a distance of 12.23 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24244**

The journey to healthcare in Duffield, Virginia (ZIP code 24244) presents a complex landscape of transportation challenges, particularly for residents managing hypertension. Assessing this landscape requires a nuanced understanding of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive “Hypertension Score,” reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care, especially in the context of this rural community.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is timely access to medical appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency care. Transportation barriers can significantly impact health outcomes, leading to delayed treatment, medication non-adherence, and increased risk of cardiovascular complications. This score considers these factors, offering a practical guide for residents and those considering moving to Duffield.

**Driving the Distance:**

The most common mode of transportation in Duffield is the personal vehicle. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities involve navigating a network of highways and local roads. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in Kingsport, Tennessee, approximately 30 miles west, and Norton, Virginia, roughly 25 miles east.

Traveling west to Kingsport requires traversing US-23, a major thoroughfare. Drive times vary depending on traffic conditions, typically ranging from 45 minutes to an hour. The road conditions are generally well-maintained, but the potential for congestion, especially during peak hours, can increase travel time and stress, a factor that can exacerbate hypertension.

Eastward travel to Norton involves US-58, a more winding and less heavily trafficked route. The drive time to Norton is usually around 30 to 45 minutes. While this route may seem shorter, the rural nature of the roads and potential for wildlife encounters require careful driving, particularly at night.

Local roads, such as VA-614 and VA-611, provide access to smaller clinics and pharmacies within the Duffield area. However, these roads are often narrow, winding, and can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, such as snow and ice during winter months. These conditions can further complicate transportation and limit healthcare access.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Duffield are extremely limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive bus system or rail network. This lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive due to physical limitations or other circumstances.

The absence of regular public transportation underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions for residents with hypertension. For those with mobility impairments, the lack of accessible public transit (ADA-compliant buses, for example) further compounds the challenges of accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Duffield is limited. While these services may be available, their frequency and reliability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability makes them a less-than-ideal option for individuals with chronic health conditions who require consistent access to medical care.

Specialized medical transport services are available, but they often come with higher costs and require advance booking. These services, such as LifeCare Ambulance and MedTrans Corporation, provide transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. However, the limited availability of these services and the need for prior arrangements can create barriers to accessing timely care, especially in emergency situations.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 24244 reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score considers the following elements:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach the nearest hospitals and clinics.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of reliable public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The frequency and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability and cost of specialized medical transport.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality and safety of roads, including potential for seasonal weather impacts.

Based on these factors, the Hypertension Score for Duffield, Virginia (24244) would likely be moderate to low. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options create significant challenges for individuals with hypertension. The rural nature of the area and the distance to healthcare facilities further compound these challenges.

**Moving to Duffield: Considerations for Hypertension Management:**

Individuals with hypertension considering moving to Duffield should carefully assess the transportation landscape and its implications for their healthcare needs. They should consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Choosing a residence closer to healthcare facilities can reduce drive times and improve access.
* **Transportation Planning:** Develop a transportation plan that includes backup options, such as ride-sharing or medical transport, in case of emergencies or vehicle breakdowns.
* **Medication Management:** Establish a system for medication refills and ensure a sufficient supply of medications is always available.
* **Support Network:** Build a support network of family, friends, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance when needed.

The ability to navigate the transportation challenges in Duffield is crucial for effectively managing hypertension. Careful planning and proactive measures can help residents overcome these barriers and ensure they receive the timely and consistent medical care they need. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this rural community, highlighting the importance of addressing transportation needs to improve health outcomes.