24361, Meadowview, Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24361, Meadowview, Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.35 percent of residents in 24361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.08 miles from the area.

The heart of the matter, in Meadowview, Virginia (ZIP Code 24361), beats a little faster when considering hypertension. This silent killer, high blood pressure, is a significant health concern, and access to timely and effective healthcare is paramount in managing it. This write-up delves into the nuances of "Hypertension Score" for the residents of 24361, focusing on the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access. For those considering moving to Meadowview, this analysis provides a crucial perspective.

A "Hypertension Score" here isn't a formal medical metric but rather a composite assessment reflecting the ease with which residents can access necessary healthcare services related to hypertension. It considers the availability of transportation options, the distance to medical facilities, and the overall accessibility of these resources. A lower score indicates better access, while a higher score suggests greater challenges.

The primary artery for transportation in Meadowview is Interstate 81. This major north-south thoroughfare provides relatively swift access to larger regional medical centers. However, the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial, influencing the hypertension score. The drive to Bristol Regional Medical Center, a key healthcare provider, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This commute, while feasible, can be a barrier for individuals with mobility limitations or those without reliable personal transportation.

Route 19, a significant local road, provides another avenue for reaching healthcare facilities. It connects Meadowview to Abingdon, where additional medical services are available. The drive to Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon via Route 19 typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes. The score improves slightly because of the shorter distance, but the reliance on personal vehicles remains a factor.

Public transportation options in 24361 are limited. The Southwest Virginia Transit Authority (SWVTA) operates a limited bus service in the region, but its routes and frequency are not designed to provide frequent access to healthcare facilities directly from Meadowview. The routes are not ADA compliant, presenting a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities. This limitation contributes to a higher "Hypertension Score" for those who depend on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability and affordability can fluctuate, especially in a rural area like Meadowview. The cost of these services, particularly for frequent medical appointments, can be prohibitive for some residents. This variable accessibility further impacts the "Hypertension Score."

Medical transportation services are available, catering specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, often provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), can provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, availability and scheduling limitations can still pose challenges, affecting the overall score.

The "Hypertension Score" for 24361 is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles is a primary driver, creating a disparity in healthcare access for those without them. The limited public transportation options and the variable nature of ride-sharing services exacerbate these challenges.

The distance to healthcare facilities, while not insurmountable, adds to the complexity. The drive times, even for relatively nearby hospitals, can be a burden, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability of medical transportation services offers a partial solution, but it's not a universally accessible option.

The "Hypertension Score" for Meadowview could be improved by several initiatives. Enhancing public transportation, including expanding routes and increasing frequency, would significantly benefit residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs specifically for medical appointments could also help. Further, exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers to offer subsidized services for low-income residents would be a valuable step.

For those considering moving to Meadowview, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Assessing the reliability of personal transportation or the availability of alternative options is vital. Evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities and the ease of access to those facilities is also essential.

The availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services within Meadowview itself also plays a role in the "Hypertension Score." Local pharmacies provide convenient access to medications, reducing the need for frequent long-distance trips. The presence of primary care physicians and specialists in the area also improves access to healthcare, contributing to a better overall score.

The "Hypertension Score" is not static. It can evolve over time as transportation options and healthcare services change. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of 24361 have adequate access to the healthcare they need, especially when managing a condition like hypertension.

The overall assessment of the "Hypertension Score" in Meadowview, Virginia (24361), highlights the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare related to hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the variable nature of ride-sharing services all contribute to a higher score. While medical transportation services offer a partial solution, further improvements are needed to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when making their moving decisions.