25047, Clothier, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 25047, Clothier, West Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.85 percent of residents in 25047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Boone Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.32 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clothier, WV (ZIP Code 25047)

The heart of Logan County, West Virginia, beats with a rhythm of resilience, a spirit forged in the crucible of coal and community. Yet, within the embrace of this rugged landscape, access to vital healthcare, particularly for conditions like hypertension, presents a significant challenge. This analysis, a 'Hypertension Score' write-up, delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 25047 (Clothier, WV), scrutinizing the avenues available to residents for accessing necessary medical care, with a particular focus on the implications for those managing hypertension.

The geographical reality of Clothier, nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountains, immediately shapes the narrative. The area is characterized by a relatively low population density, winding roads, and limited public transportation infrastructure. This creates a significant dependence on personal vehicles for transportation, a factor that directly influences healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medication refills, regular check-ups, and potential emergency care is paramount. The ability to navigate the transportation network becomes a critical determinant of their health outcomes.

**Roads, Routes, and Realities:**

The primary arteries connecting Clothier to healthcare facilities are the roadways. The primary route to larger medical centers is via **West Virginia Route 10**, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the mountainous terrain. This road, while scenic, can be prone to delays due to traffic, weather conditions, and the inherent challenges of navigating winding mountain roads. The drive to Logan Regional Medical Center, the nearest major hospital, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

From Clothier, one can also access **West Virginia Route 17**, which connects to the town of Chapmanville. This route provides access to smaller clinics and physician offices, but the options are more limited than those available at Logan Regional. The drive time to Chapmanville is generally shorter, around 15-20 minutes, but the range of specialized care is less extensive.

Local roads, such as **Clothier Road** and **Main Street**, provide internal connectivity within the community. However, these roads are often narrow, with limited shoulders, and can be challenging to navigate, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those driving in inclement weather.

**Public Transportation: A Sparse Landscape:**

Public transportation options in ZIP code 25047 are extremely limited. The Logan County Commission provides some transportation services, but these are often demand-response and may not operate on a fixed schedule. This lack of readily available public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership.

The availability of ADA-accessible transportation is also a crucial consideration. For individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations, the lack of accessible public transit can severely restrict their ability to attend medical appointments, obtain medications, and receive necessary care. The absence of reliable, accessible public transportation in Clothier exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension, as it can make it difficult to maintain the consistent care required to manage the condition effectively.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps?**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in the immediate vicinity of Clothier. The limited demand and geographical constraints make it economically unfeasible for these services to operate in the area. This further limits the options for transportation to healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several companies, such as **Medicaid Transportation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, provide non-emergency medical transportation in the region. These services often cater to individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. However, availability can be limited, and the costs associated with these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for individuals managing hypertension.

**The Implications for Hypertension Management:**

The transportation challenges outlined above have direct implications for the management of hypertension in Clothier. The distance to healthcare facilities, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services can all contribute to delayed or missed medical appointments. This can lead to:

* **Poor medication adherence:** Difficulty in obtaining medication refills due to transportation barriers can disrupt treatment plans.
* **Delayed diagnosis and treatment:** The inability to attend regular check-ups can lead to delayed detection of complications and the delayed initiation of necessary treatment.
* **Increased risk of complications:** Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious health complications, such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
* **Increased healthcare costs:** Delayed or inadequate treatment can result in more frequent and costly emergency room visits.

**Moving to Clothier: A Healthcare Consideration:**

For individuals considering moving to Clothier, the availability and accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, should thoroughly research the available transportation options and assess their ability to access necessary medical care. This includes evaluating the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation or medical transport services, and the potential costs associated with transportation.

**Conclusion: A Call for Action:**

The 'Hypertension Score' for Clothier, WV (ZIP code 25047) highlights a critical need for improved transportation infrastructure and services. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure that residents, particularly those managing hypertension, have equitable access to healthcare. This requires a multi-pronged approach, including:

* **Investing in public transportation:** Expanding and improving public transportation options, including ADA-accessible services, can provide a vital lifeline for individuals who lack access to personal vehicles.
* **Supporting medical transportation services:** Providing financial assistance and promoting the availability of medical transportation services can help to bridge the gap for those who cannot drive or afford other transportation options.
* **Promoting telehealth and remote monitoring:** Expanding access to telehealth services and remote patient monitoring can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits and improve medication adherence.
* **Community education and awareness:** Educating residents about available resources and promoting awareness of the importance of regular healthcare can empower individuals to take control of their health.

By addressing these challenges, Clothier can create a healthier and more vibrant community, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their transportation limitations. The heart of Logan County deserves nothing less.