26184, Waverly, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26184, Waverly, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.38 percent of residents in 26184 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 9.22 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Waverly, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26184)

The heart of this analysis beats with a singular focus: determining the ease with which residents of Waverly, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26184) can access vital healthcare services, particularly those related to managing hypertension. This “Hypertension Score” considers various factors, from the practicality of personal **transportation** to the availability of public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport. It's a crucial assessment for current residents and a vital consideration for anyone **moving to Waverly**, ensuring they can readily receive the care necessary to maintain their health.

Waverly, nestled in Wood County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in terms of **healthcare access**. The primary determinant of accessibility is the distance to medical facilities. This is measured by drive times, which are heavily influenced by the local road network. The area's reliance on personal vehicles underscores the significance of reliable **transportation**.

The most direct route to healthcare often involves navigating the major thoroughfares. Residents frequently utilize West Virginia Route 2 (WV-2), a vital north-south artery running along the Ohio River. This road provides access to Parkersburg, the primary hub for specialized medical care in the region. Another key route is U.S. Route 50 (US-50), which intersects with WV-2 and provides an east-west connection. These highways are typically well-maintained, but the speed of travel can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

Secondary roads play a crucial role in connecting residents to these main routes. These include local roads like Waverly Road, which directly serves the community. The condition of these roads, including the presence of potholes or limited visibility, can impact drive times and overall safety, especially for individuals with health conditions like hypertension.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The closest healthcare options are likely to be primary care physicians and urgent care clinics within Parkersburg. Driving to these facilities via WV-2 can take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate travel to larger hospitals like WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, which could extend the drive time to 20-30 minutes.

Public **transportation** options in Waverly and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA). However, the routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service area may not comprehensively cover all areas of the ZIP code, particularly those outside of the immediate Waverly area.

The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. For individuals without personal vehicles, relying on MOVTA can present challenges. The current routes, while offering a lifeline, may not align with the specific needs of patients requiring regular appointments or those with mobility limitations. The accessibility of MOVTA buses, including features like wheelchair lifts and designated seating, is crucial for ADA compliance, ensuring equal access for all residents.

The MOVTA system operates on a fixed-route schedule. Riders must adhere to the scheduled times, which may limit flexibility in scheduling appointments or responding to urgent medical needs. The lack of late-night or weekend service further restricts **healthcare access** for those with busy schedules or emergency situations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. However, their availability in Waverly can be inconsistent. The presence of ride-sharing services depends on driver availability, which is influenced by factors like population density and demand.

The reliability of ride-sharing services is a critical element of the Hypertension Score. Patients needing frequent appointments or facing health emergencies cannot depend on an unreliable service. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring multiple trips.

Medical **transportation** services provide specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical supervision during transport. Several companies operate in the region, offering services like non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and ambulance services.

The availability of medical **transportation** services is a vital component of the Hypertension Score. These services cater to patients who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. The quality of these services, including the training of the staff and the condition of the vehicles, is paramount.

The cost of medical **transportation** can be a significant financial burden. Many insurance plans cover NEMT services, but co-pays and deductibles can still pose a challenge. The ability to access and afford these services is a key factor in determining the overall **healthcare access** for residents.

The Hypertension Score also considers the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, which involves remote consultations with healthcare providers, offers a convenient alternative to in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management.

The availability of telehealth services is a positive factor in the Hypertension Score. Telehealth reduces the need for travel, saving time and money. However, access to reliable internet and the ability to navigate technology are prerequisites for utilizing telehealth services.

The overall Hypertension Score for Waverly (26184) reflects a mixed landscape. While the proximity to Parkersburg offers access to a range of healthcare facilities, the limitations in public **transportation**, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical **transportation** present challenges. Individuals **moving to Waverly** should carefully consider their **transportation** needs and assess their ability to access the necessary healthcare services.

The score is a dynamic measure. It is subject to change based on factors such as the expansion of public transit routes, the increased availability of ride-sharing services, the development of telehealth programs, and the improvement of local road infrastructure. The ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** in the region are crucial for ensuring the well-being of all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.