25530, Kenova, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 25530, Kenova, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.82 percent of residents in 25530 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Huntington Va Medical Center with a distance of 2.42 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25530**

The well-being of residents in Kenova, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25530), hinges significantly on their ability to access essential healthcare services. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which individuals, particularly those managing hypertension, can reach medical facilities. We’ll explore the various modes of transportation available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, ultimately constructing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities within this context.

The foundation of healthcare access in Kenova is largely built upon the personal automobile. The primary arteries for transportation are US Route 60, a vital east-west thoroughfare, and US Route 52, running north-south. These highways, while providing relatively straightforward routes, are subject to traffic fluctuations, particularly during peak commuting hours and inclement weather. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics, especially for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis, can be a critical factor in their health outcomes.

The nearest major hospital, Cabell Huntington Hospital, is approximately a 30-minute drive via US-60 West and I-64 West, assuming moderate traffic conditions. St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, WV, also reachable via US-60 West, presents a similar commute time. Smaller clinics and physician offices within Kenova and nearby communities offer shorter drive times, typically under 15 minutes, providing more immediate options for routine check-ups and medication refills. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers.

Public transportation options in Kenova are limited. The Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) provides bus service within the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, but routes serving Kenova are infrequent and may not directly connect with all healthcare facilities. The TTA operates a fixed-route system, and while some buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and designated seating, the infrequency of service and the potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for individuals with hypertension, particularly those experiencing mobility issues or who require immediate medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kenova area, offering a more flexible transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. For individuals managing hypertension, the reliance on ride-sharing introduces an element of uncertainty and potential delay in accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services, often provided by companies such as MedRide or local ambulance services, can transport patients to and from medical appointments, including those requiring stretcher transport or other specialized assistance. While these services provide a valuable resource, they often require prior scheduling and may involve higher costs than other transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Kenova, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services should be a primary consideration. Those with hypertension or other chronic health conditions need to carefully evaluate the transportation options available to them, considering factors such as drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical transportation services.

The "Hypertension Score" for Kenova, ZIP Code 25530, would reflect the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities:** The average time to reach the nearest hospitals, clinics, and specialized care providers.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, routes, and ADA-accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability, cost, and scheduling requirements of specialized medical transport.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance to pharmacies for medication refills.

Based on these factors, Kenova's Hypertension Score would likely be moderate. While the availability of personal vehicles provides a reasonable level of healthcare access, the limitations of public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services create barriers for some residents.

The score would also consider the geographical challenges of the area. The mountainous terrain and the presence of rivers can impact travel times and accessibility, particularly during inclement weather. These factors must be considered when assessing the overall healthcare access landscape.

Furthermore, the availability of healthcare providers within Kenova itself, such as primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, would significantly impact the score. The presence of local healthcare resources reduces the need for long-distance travel and improves overall healthcare access.

In conclusion, assessing the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare services is crucial for understanding the health outcomes of residents in Kenova, West Virginia. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for evaluating the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents can readily access the medical care they need. The ability to navigate the roads, whether by car or other means, is vital to the health of the residents of Kenova.