26337, Cairo, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26337, Cairo, West Virginia is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.52 percent of residents in 26337 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 20.68 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Cairo, WV (ZIP Code 26337)

Moving to Cairo, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Ritchie County, presents a unique set of considerations, particularly concerning healthcare access. The rural landscape, while offering tranquility, introduces challenges to timely medical care, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare within ZIP Code 26337, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patients.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and medication adherence. Regular check-ups, timely refills, and prompt attention to concerning symptoms are crucial. The ability to easily and affordably reach medical facilities is, therefore, paramount for residents managing this chronic condition. This analysis considers various transportation modalities, from personal vehicles to public transit, to paint a realistic picture of healthcare access in this rural community.

The primary mode of transportation in Cairo and the surrounding area is the personal vehicle. The drive times to healthcare facilities significantly impact the Hypertension Score. The nearest hospitals are located in Parkersburg, approximately 40 miles west, or Clarksburg, roughly 60 miles east. Traveling to Parkersburg typically involves navigating **US Route 50** and then **Interstate 77**. The journey, under ideal conditions, takes around an hour, but traffic, especially during peak hours, can extend this. Road conditions, including potential ice or snow during winter months, further complicate matters.

Reaching Clarksburg requires traversing **US Route 50** eastward. The drive, while scenic, is longer, taking approximately an hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and road conditions. Both routes involve navigating winding roads and rural landscapes, potentially increasing the risk of accidents and further impacting the Hypertension Score, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing medical emergencies. The availability of emergency medical services is critical, but response times can be affected by the distance and terrain.

Public transportation options in Cairo are limited. The West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) provides some services, primarily through the Ritchie County Senior Center. However, these services are primarily geared towards seniors and individuals with disabilities. Public transit routes are not readily available, and fixed-route bus services are nonexistent within the immediate area. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to health conditions.

The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Hypertension Score. Individuals reliant on public transportation face considerable challenges in maintaining consistent healthcare appointments. The absence of regular routes, coupled with limited operating hours, creates significant barriers to timely medical care. The lack of ADA-accessible vehicles further exacerbates these challenges for individuals with disabilities, making it difficult to navigate the **transportation** landscape.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is sporadic. Availability is often contingent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patient transport, are available, but these services often require advance booking and can be costly.

Medical **transportation** providers, such as MedRide or AMR, offer specialized services, including stretcher transport and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services are generally reserved for patients with specific medical needs and may not be readily available for routine check-ups or medication refills. The cost of these services further diminishes the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Cairo presents unique challenges. The distance to healthcare facilities, the limited public **transportation** options, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant barriers for individuals managing hypertension. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting blood pressure control and overall health outcomes.

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 26337 is significantly impacted by these factors. The score reflects the challenges residents face in accessing timely and consistent medical care. This score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that can be improved by addressing the **transportation** needs of the community.

Improving the Hypertension Score requires a multi-pronged approach. Expanding public **transportation** options, including fixed-route buses or demand-response services, is crucial. Ensuring ADA-accessibility on all public **transportation** vehicles is also vital. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could improve **healthcare access**. Supporting the expansion of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can mitigate the impact of distance.

Encouraging the establishment of local healthcare clinics or satellite offices would bring medical services closer to residents. This would reduce drive times and improve **healthcare access**. Promoting community awareness regarding available **transportation** resources and financial assistance programs is essential.

For individuals **moving to Cairo**, WV, the implications of the Hypertension Score are significant. Careful consideration of **transportation** needs and the potential impact on healthcare access is essential. Researching available healthcare providers and understanding the **transportation** options to reach them is crucial. Exploring telehealth options and establishing a plan for managing medical appointments and medication refills is recommended.

The challenges to **healthcare access** in Cairo, WV, are not insurmountable. By addressing the **transportation** needs of the community, implementing telehealth initiatives, and supporting the expansion of local healthcare services, the Hypertension Score can be improved, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for residents. The commitment to improving **transportation** options will directly impact the ability of residents to manage their health effectively. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape will influence the quality of life for those living with hypertension.