24269, Mc Clure, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24269, Mc Clure, Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

18.52 percent of residents in 24269 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dickenson Community Hospital with a distance of 6.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in McClure, VA (ZIP Code 24269)

The siren song of rural life, the quiet embrace of the Appalachian Mountains – it’s a powerful draw. For those considering a move to McClure, Virginia (ZIP code 24269), particularly those managing hypertension, a crucial consideration is the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, a practical guide to navigating medical appointments and managing your health in this scenic but geographically challenging locale.

Our score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all vital elements for individuals with hypertension. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the realities of accessing healthcare, empowering informed decisions for those seeking a healthier lifestyle in McClure.

**The Lay of the Land: Roads and Drive Times**

McClure, nestled within Dickenson County, presents a landscape of winding roads and mountainous terrain. This geography directly impacts travel times to healthcare facilities. The primary route for accessing medical care is typically via **State Route 83** and **U.S. Route 460**. These highways are the arteries of the region, connecting McClure to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized medical practices are located.

Driving times are variable, significantly influenced by traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. The closest hospital, **Dickenson County Medical Center** in Clintwood, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on the specific location within McClure and traffic conditions. This is the baseline for our score.

For more specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, residents often need to travel further. **Holston Valley Medical Center** in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a more comprehensive facility, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes away, primarily accessed via **U.S. Route 58** and **Interstate 81**. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning, especially for those with hypertension, where regular check-ups and timely interventions are crucial.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Dickenson County are extremely limited. There is no traditional bus system serving the area. This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those who may be unable to drive due to health concerns or other limitations.

While the county may offer demand-response services, these are often geared towards seniors and individuals with disabilities. Details on eligibility, routes, and ADA accessibility need to be investigated locally. This underscores the importance of assessing individual needs and capabilities before making the move to **McClure**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not guaranteed, and availability can be sporadic, especially in rural areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not recommended.

Medical **transportation** services, such as **MedTrans** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, are available for non-emergency medical transport. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments when they are unable to drive themselves. However, these services often require advance booking and may be subject to availability. The cost of medical **transportation** can also be a significant factor.

**The Hypertension Score: A Practical Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed above, we can formulate a preliminary "Hypertension Score" for **healthcare access** in McClure, Virginia.

* **Drive Time to Nearest Hospital (Dickenson County Medical Center):** Moderate (20-30 minutes). This is a positive factor.
* **Drive Time to Specialized Care (Holston Valley Medical Center):** High (approximately 75 minutes). This is a negative factor.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Very Limited. This is a significant negative factor.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Uncertain, potentially limited. This is a negative factor.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** Available, but requires planning and may be costly. This is a neutral factor.

**Overall Score:** Given the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized care, the "Hypertension Score" for McClure, VA, is **moderate to challenging**.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to McClure**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to McClure, careful planning is essential.

* **Personal Vehicle:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost a necessity.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the location within McClure. Proximity to State Route 83 and U.S. Route 460 will reduce travel times.
* **Medical Needs:** Assess the frequency of required medical appointments and the need for specialized care.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a plan for emergencies, including access to medical transport services.
* **Support Network:** Establish a support network of family, friends, or neighbors who can assist with transportation and other needs.
* **Research:** Contact local healthcare providers and medical transport services to gather specific information about their services and availability.

**Conclusion: Embracing the Rural Life with Eyes Wide Open**

Moving to McClure offers the promise of a peaceful, close-knit community and stunning natural beauty. However, for individuals with hypertension, a thorough understanding of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is critical. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for assessing the challenges and making informed decisions. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this write-up, individuals can navigate the realities of rural living and ensure they have access to the medical care they need, allowing them to embrace the beauty and tranquility of McClure while prioritizing their health. This is a crucial step in successfully **moving to McClure**.