24293, Wise, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24293, Wise, Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.54 percent of residents in 24293 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lonesome Pine Hospital with a distance of 12.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 24293

Wise, Virginia, nestled in the heart of Appalachia, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. ZIP code 24293, encompassing the town of Wise and surrounding areas, demands a nuanced understanding of its transportation landscape to accurately assess the ability of residents to receive timely and effective medical care. This write-up will delve into the factors influencing a "Hypertension Score" for this region, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services, all crucial components of **healthcare access**.

The cornerstone of any assessment of **transportation** capabilities in Wise County is the road network. The primary artery is US-23, a major north-south highway that provides the most direct route to larger medical facilities in neighboring cities like Bristol, approximately an hour's drive south. State Route 63, also known as Norton Road, connects Wise to Norton and beyond, offering another vital link for accessing healthcare. These highways, while generally well-maintained, are subject to the typical Appalachian constraints: winding roads, steep grades, and potential weather-related disruptions, particularly during winter months.

Drive times are a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. A patient experiencing a hypertensive crisis needs rapid access to medical intervention. The drive from the center of Wise to the nearest hospital, the Wise County Medical Center, is relatively short, typically under 10 minutes. However, for specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Bristol or even further afield. This increases the risk, especially if the patient has limited mobility or is experiencing severe symptoms. The longer the drive time, the lower the Hypertension Score.

Public transit options in Wise County are limited, impacting the **healthcare access** of those without personal vehicles. The primary provider is the Mountain Empire Transit (MET), offering bus routes that serve the town of Wise and surrounding areas. However, route frequency is often limited, and service may not extend to all areas within the ZIP code, particularly in more rural locations. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments, and the reliability of these services must be carefully considered. The absence of frequent, comprehensive public transit significantly lowers the Hypertension Score, especially for those who cannot drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is less consistent compared to larger metropolitan areas. Availability depends on driver density, which can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. This lack of readily available and affordable ride-sharing services further reduces the Hypertension Score, particularly for those without other **transportation** options.

Medical transportation services play a vital role in ensuring **healthcare access** for individuals with specific needs. Several providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, often catering to individuals requiring assistance with mobility or those who lack access to other forms of **transportation**. These services typically require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for urgent appointments. Ambulance services are also available for emergency situations, but their effectiveness depends on rapid response times, which can be challenging in a geographically dispersed area. The availability and reliability of medical **transportation** services are essential components of the Hypertension Score.

The cost of **transportation** itself must also be considered. Gas prices, vehicle maintenance, and the expense of ride-sharing all contribute to the overall cost of accessing healthcare. For individuals with hypertension, regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits can place a significant financial burden on their budgets. This financial strain can lead to delayed care, non-adherence to medication regimens, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The demographics of ZIP code 24293 are another important factor. The population includes a significant percentage of older adults, a demographic group that is particularly vulnerable to hypertension and its complications. Furthermore, the area has a lower median income than the national average, which can exacerbate the challenges of accessing healthcare. These demographic factors must be considered when evaluating the Hypertension Score, as they can influence the availability of resources and the ability of residents to navigate the **transportation** landscape.

The presence of community health centers and other primary care providers within the ZIP code is a positive factor, improving the Hypertension Score. These facilities offer accessible healthcare services, including blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and patient education. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and nephrology, may still require travel to larger hospitals outside the immediate area.

For someone **moving to Wise**, understanding these factors is paramount. The availability of reliable **transportation** is crucial to managing hypertension effectively. Prospective residents should consider their **transportation** needs, the availability of public transit or ride-sharing services, and the proximity to medical facilities. They should also investigate the availability of medical **transportation** services and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for ZIP code 24293 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Drive times on US-23 and State Route 63, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, the presence of medical **transportation** options, the cost of **transportation**, and the demographics of the population all contribute to the overall assessment. While the presence of local healthcare providers is a positive factor, the challenges posed by the **transportation** landscape, particularly for those without personal vehicles or experiencing financial constraints, can significantly impact **healthcare access** and ultimately, the health outcomes of residents. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for anyone seeking to manage hypertension effectively in this Appalachian community.