25904, Pax, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 25904, Pax, West Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.77 percent of residents in 25904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Plateau Medical Center with a distance of 7.98 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 25904**

The quiet, verdant expanse of ZIP Code 25904, encompassing the unincorporated community of Pax, West Virginia, presents a unique challenge in the context of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up will delve into the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities, and ultimately, assessing the ease with which residents can receive timely and appropriate care. The goal is to illuminate the practical realities of navigating the healthcare system in this rural setting, crucial for anyone considering moving to Pax or seeking to improve their health management.

The primary mode of transportation within 25904 is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The rugged terrain and limited public transit options necessitate reliance on cars for nearly all errands, including medical appointments. This dependence directly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it introduces variables like drive times, vehicle maintenance costs, and the physical demands of driving, especially for those with mobility limitations or health conditions.

The major arteries serving Pax are the **West Virginia Turnpike (I-77)**, offering relatively swift north-south travel, and **US Route 19**, a vital east-west connector. Local roads, such as **County Route 29 (Pax Road)**, provide access to the immediate community and surrounding areas. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore largely dictated by these highways and roads.

The closest significant medical center is **Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital (ARH)**, located approximately 15 miles south of Pax. The drive along the **West Virginia Turnpike (I-77)** is typically a 20-30 minute journey, contingent on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time, while manageable, can be a significant barrier for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring frequent monitoring.

Further afield, the **Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC)** in Charleston, West Virginia, offers a broader range of specialized services. The drive to Charleston, primarily via **I-77**, extends to approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This extended travel time significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, potentially delaying access to specialized care and increasing the stress associated with healthcare visits.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in 25904. The **Raleigh County Transit Authority (RCTA)**, the primary public transit provider for the area, operates a demand-response service. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, which can be challenging for urgent medical needs. The RCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited service area and scheduling requirements significantly diminish its utility for regular healthcare access.

The absence of fixed-route public transit in Pax elevates the importance of ride-sharing services. While **Uber** and **Lyft** operate in the Beckley area, their availability in Pax itself can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty adds to the stress of healthcare planning and can negatively affect the Hypertension Score. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, offer another option. Companies like **MedTrans** and **LogistiCare** may provide services in the area. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs must be carefully considered.

The Hypertension Score is also impacted by the availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services within Pax. Access to medication refills, blood pressure monitoring devices, and other essential resources is crucial for effective hypertension management. The convenience of local pharmacies and the availability of telehealth services can significantly improve the Hypertension Score.

The physical environment in 25904 also influences the Hypertension Score. The hilly terrain and lack of sidewalks can make walking or cycling challenging, further limiting transportation options. The availability of safe and accessible spaces for physical activity is crucial for managing hypertension, and the absence of such resources can negatively impact the overall health profile of the community.

The socioeconomic factors within 25904 must also be considered. Income levels, insurance coverage, and access to healthcare professionals all play a role in determining the Hypertension Score. Residents with limited financial resources may face greater challenges in accessing transportation and affording necessary medical care.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for 25904 reflects a complex interplay of transportation challenges and healthcare access limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to timely and convenient healthcare. The extended drive times to specialized medical centers, the cost of transportation, and the scarcity of local healthcare resources all contribute to a lower Hypertension Score.

For individuals considering moving to Pax, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is essential. Careful planning, including the identification of reliable transportation options and the establishment of a strong relationship with a primary care physician, is crucial for successful hypertension management. The community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving public transportation, promoting ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of local healthcare resources. These improvements would not only enhance the Hypertension Score but also improve the overall health and well-being of the residents of 25904.