24828, Davy, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 24828, Davy, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.95 percent of residents in 24828 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Welch Community Hospital with a distance of 5.86 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 24828

The crisp mountain air of Davy, West Virginia, nestled within ZIP Code 24828, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents, particularly when considering healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, a crucial factor in managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention. We will explore the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assess their impact on a hypothetical "Hypertension Score," a metric reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching essential healthcare services.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency interventions. The remoteness of Davy, coupled with its limited public transportation infrastructure, demands careful consideration. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the practicalities of accessing healthcare, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their health management.

The backbone of transportation in 24828 is the personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare is **U.S. Route 52**, a two-lane highway that snakes through the rugged terrain. This route provides access to larger towns and cities where healthcare facilities are more readily available. Driving times, however, can be deceptive. While the distance might appear manageable on a map, the winding roads and potential for inclement weather, especially during the winter months, can significantly extend travel times.

Heading north on **U.S. Route 52** leads to Bluefield, West Virginia, approximately a 30-minute drive under ideal conditions. Bluefield boasts a hospital, several clinics, and specialist offices. Traveling south on **U.S. Route 52** connects to Welch, West Virginia, roughly a 20-minute drive. Welch offers a smaller hospital and various primary care physicians. The condition of the roads, particularly during the winter, can impact these drive times.

Beyond **U.S. Route 52**, secondary roads like **County Route 16** and **County Route 8** offer alternative routes, but they are often narrower, more winding, and less well-maintained. These roads may be less suitable for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing medical emergencies. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of reliable transportation and vehicle maintenance for residents of 24828.

Public transportation options in 24828 are limited. The **Mercer County Public Transit Authority** may offer some routes, though their frequency and coverage in the Davy area may be restricted. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features would need to be verified. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not own a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in 24828. Their presence depends on driver availability, which can be sparse in rural areas. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. The lack of readily available ride-sharing further exacerbates the transportation challenges.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are another option. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, their availability and coverage in 24828 should be confirmed. Companies like **LogistiCare** and **Molina Healthcare** may offer NEMT services, but eligibility requirements and prior authorization processes must be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" for 24828 would reflect the challenges outlined above. It would take into account factors like average drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation. A lower score would indicate greater difficulty in accessing healthcare, while a higher score would suggest better access.

For an individual with hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" in 24828 would likely be moderate to low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential scarcity of ride-sharing services create obstacles to consistent healthcare access. The long drive times, especially during inclement weather, can pose significant challenges.

The lack of readily available healthcare access in Davy can impact the well-being of residents. The challenges of transportation can affect the ability to attend regular check-ups, pick up medications, and seek timely medical attention in emergencies. This can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

Moving to Davy, or any rural area, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as hypertension, should thoroughly investigate the available transportation options and the proximity of healthcare facilities before relocating. Planning for transportation needs, including reliable vehicle maintenance, exploring potential public transit options, and researching medical transportation services, is crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

The local community can play a vital role in improving healthcare access. Supporting initiatives to expand public transit, advocating for ride-sharing services, and promoting medical transportation options can significantly improve the "Hypertension Score" for 24828. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address the transportation barriers and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

The challenges of healthcare access in 24828 highlight the importance of proactive health management. Individuals with hypertension should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive care plan that includes medication management, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring. They should also familiarize themselves with the local transportation options and have contingency plans in place for accessing healthcare in emergencies.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the realities of living in a rural community. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of healthcare. By understanding the challenges and exploring the available options, residents of 24828 can take proactive steps to manage their health and ensure they have access to the care they need. The journey to healthcare in Davy requires careful planning, resilience, and a commitment to prioritizing well-being.