26169, Rockport, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26169, Rockport, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.75 percent of residents in 26169 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 27.48 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockport, WV (ZIP Code 26169)

Rockport, West Virginia, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of healthcare resources within the 26169 ZIP code, focusing on transportation options and their impact on individuals seeking hypertension management. We will assess the “Hypertension Score” by examining the ease with which residents can access essential medical services, including primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency care. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Rockport, as understanding transportation limitations is crucial for ensuring consistent healthcare access.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is regular medical care. In Rockport, the primary means of accessing healthcare facilities is by private vehicle. The primary thoroughfare is **West Virginia Route 33**, which provides the main artery for travel east and west. Traveling to the nearest major healthcare hub, Parkersburg, approximately 15 miles east, requires navigating **WV-33**. This journey typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. While seemingly manageable, this drive can be a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The **Ohio River Road**, also known as **WV-2**, runs north and south along the river, offering an alternative route, though it is often slower and can be subject to flooding. Navigating these roads requires careful attention, especially during inclement weather, which is common in West Virginia. The lack of readily available public transportation further exacerbates the challenges.

Public transportation options in Rockport are limited. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides some services, but routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily cater to Parkersburg and surrounding areas. Checking their website, one might find a route that covers some of the area, but it is unlikely to be a direct route to healthcare facilities, and the frequency is a major concern. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is not guaranteed on all routes, potentially creating an additional hurdle for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area but their presence in Rockport is less consistent. Availability may fluctuate based on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or those living in more remote areas of the ZIP code. This lack of reliable transportation significantly impacts the Hypertension Score.

Medical transport services are another option, particularly for individuals with significant mobility limitations. Several companies, such as MedStar and First Choice Medical Transport, operate in the region. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly, making them less practical for routine check-ups or medication refills. These services are essential for those who cannot drive, but their cost and scheduling constraints can create significant barriers to consistent healthcare access.

Pharmacies are another critical component of hypertension management. The nearest pharmacies are located in Parkersburg, again requiring a drive along **WV-33** or potentially **WV-2**. This adds another layer of transportation dependency. The ability to quickly and easily access medication is crucial for managing hypertension, and any transportation challenges can lead to medication non-adherence, increasing the risk of serious health complications.

Emergency medical services are available in Rockport, but the response time can be affected by the distance to the nearest hospital and the availability of ambulances. The nearest hospital is located in Parkersburg, requiring transport via ambulance or private vehicle. While emergency services are essential, they are not a substitute for proactive hypertension management.

The overall “Hypertension Score” for Rockport (26169) is moderately low. The reliance on private vehicles for accessing healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, creates significant barriers for many residents. The lack of readily available transportation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, medication non-adherence, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Rockport and managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. Those without access to a private vehicle should carefully investigate the availability and reliability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. Additionally, proximity to pharmacies and the ease of accessing them should be considered.

To improve the Hypertension Score, several initiatives could be implemented. Increasing the frequency and coverage of MOVTA routes, particularly those connecting Rockport to Parkersburg healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could also alleviate some of the transportation challenges. Promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and medical transport companies to offer affordable and accessible services would also be a valuable step.

Furthermore, community education programs on hypertension management and the importance of medication adherence are crucial. These programs should be easily accessible to all residents, regardless of their transportation limitations. They should also provide information on available resources, including transportation options and financial assistance programs.

In conclusion, while Rockport offers a tranquil environment, healthcare access, particularly for those managing hypertension, presents significant transportation challenges. Understanding these challenges and proactively planning for transportation needs is essential for ensuring consistent healthcare access and promoting positive health outcomes. Moving to Rockport requires a thoughtful assessment of one’s ability to navigate the transportation landscape to ensure the best possible care. The “Hypertension Score” highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and healthcare resources to ensure that all residents of Rockport have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.