26170, Saint Marys, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26170, Saint Marys, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.50 percent of residents in 26170 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sistersville General Hospital with a distance of 15.31 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Saint Marys, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26170)

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human need, can be a significant hurdle, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up, designed for those considering a move to Saint Marys, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26170), delves into the transportation landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents managing high blood pressure. We'll explore the realities of **transportation** options, from driving times to public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment.

Saint Marys, nestled in Pleasants County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its rural character influences the availability and practicality of various **transportation** modes. The ability to readily access medical care is paramount for individuals with hypertension, requiring regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency interventions. Understanding the **transportation** ecosystem is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for those **moving to Saint Marys**.

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and around Saint Marys are US Route 50, a major east-west thoroughfare, and West Virginia Route 2, which follows the Ohio River. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or due to seasonal events. The drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by these routes.

The nearest hospitals are in Parkersburg, approximately 30 miles west, and Marietta, Ohio, roughly 40 miles east. A drive to Parkersburg, primarily on US Route 50, can take between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey to Marietta, utilizing US Route 50 and Ohio Route 7, is comparable in time. These drive times are significant, especially for those experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring frequent appointments.

Local roads, such as Pleasants Highway (County Road 1), provide access to smaller clinics and physician offices within Saint Marys and surrounding areas. However, these roads may be less direct and potentially subject to delays due to weather or local traffic. The condition of these roads is another factor to consider, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on vehicles with limited suspension capabilities.

Public **transportation** options in Saint Marys are limited. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides some bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules may not be ideal for healthcare-related travel. Information regarding specific routes serving Saint Marys, including route numbers and frequency, needs to be verified. Availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, is also critical information for individuals with disabilities.

The feasibility of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Saint Marys should be carefully investigated. Their availability in rural areas is often inconsistent, and wait times can be considerable. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Confirming the presence and reliability of these services before **moving to Saint Marys** is highly recommended.

Medical **transportation** services are another crucial aspect of the **transportation** landscape. These services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are designed to assist individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Researching the availability of NEMT providers in the area, including their service areas, costs, and types of vehicles (e.g., wheelchair-accessible), is essential.

Several medical **transportation** brands may operate in the region, including local ambulance services and regional NEMT providers. The specific brands and their service areas should be confirmed. Access to these services is critical for individuals with hypertension who may experience complications requiring immediate medical attention or those unable to drive themselves to appointments.

The "Hypertension Score" for Saint Marys, therefore, is a complex calculation. It considers drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public **transportation**, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical **transportation** options. The score would be influenced by factors such as the individual's mobility, the severity of their hypertension, and their ability to drive.

For individuals with well-controlled hypertension and the ability to drive, the score might be relatively moderate. However, for those with mobility limitations, limited access to a vehicle, or uncontrolled hypertension requiring frequent medical intervention, the score would likely be lower, reflecting the challenges of accessing healthcare.

The remoteness of Saint Marys, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents significant hurdles in terms of **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation**, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to timely and consistent medical care.

Individuals considering **moving to Saint Marys** with hypertension must thoroughly research the **transportation** options available to them. They should assess their ability to drive, investigate the availability of public **transportation**, and confirm the presence and reliability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

Furthermore, they should consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, and factor in the drive times and potential delays. The "Hypertension Score" should be a personalized assessment, reflecting the individual's specific needs and circumstances.

The success of managing hypertension in Saint Marys hinges on proactive planning and a realistic understanding of the **transportation** landscape. The decision to relocate should be made with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access** in this rural community.