26351, Glenville, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26351, Glenville, West Virginia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.31 percent of residents in 26351 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland-Clarksburg Hospital, Inc with a distance of 33.60 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glenville, WV (ZIP Code 26351)

The quiet charm of Glenville, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Gilmer County (ZIP Code 26351), offers a tranquil escape. But for those considering a move, particularly individuals managing hypertension, a crucial consideration is healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for Glenville, focusing on the practical realities of getting to necessary medical appointments, considering the limited **transportation** options and the impact on **healthcare access**.

Our assessment goes beyond simply identifying healthcare providers. It delves into the intricate dance between location, **transportation**, and the ability to consistently receive timely medical care. This is particularly vital for managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and potential medication adjustments. The ability to easily and reliably reach a doctor's office or pharmacy is paramount.

Glenville, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges. The primary mode of **transportation** is personal vehicles. Public transit is minimal, and the terrain and dispersed population make ride-sharing and medical transport services less readily available than in urban areas. This reality significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary roadways serving Glenville dictate travel times. The town is strategically positioned at the intersection of US Route 33 and WV Route 5. These are the main arteries, essential for accessing healthcare. The drive to the nearest hospital, Braxton County Memorial Hospital in Gassaway, WV, via US-33 E, is approximately 28 miles and takes about 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. This drive is manageable, but the time commitment, particularly for frequent appointments, can be significant.

Further afield, access to more specialized care requires longer drives. Morgantown, home to WVU Medicine, is a significant healthcare hub, approximately 100 miles and a drive of roughly two hours via US-33 W, I-79 N, and WV-7 W. This journey, while offering a broader range of specialists, presents a considerable time investment. The same holds true for healthcare in Charleston, WV, roughly 110 miles and a drive of two hours via I-79 S and US-19 S.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While US-33 is generally well-maintained, winter weather can cause delays. The winding nature of these roads, especially WV-5, can also increase travel times. These factors must be considered when assessing the reliability of **transportation** for regular medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transit options in Glenville are extremely limited. The Gilmer County Senior Center may offer some transportation services for seniors, but availability and routes are restricted. There are no regular bus routes serving the area.

ADA accessibility on any available public transit is likely to be limited, further complicating **healthcare access** for individuals with mobility challenges. This scarcity of public transit significantly lowers the "Hypertension Score" for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Glenville. Their presence is sporadic, and wait times can be considerable. This makes them unreliable for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services are the other option. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) in the region. These services require pre-booking and may have limited availability. Companies like MedStar and First Medical Transport may service the area, but their coverage and rates should be carefully investigated.

These services are crucial for individuals unable to drive or without access to family or friends for **transportation**. However, their availability and cost can be barriers to consistent **healthcare access**, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

**Pharmacies and Local Healthcare Providers**

Glenville has a few local pharmacies, including Rite Aid, providing convenient access to medications. The presence of local pharmacies is a positive factor, reducing the need for extensive travel for prescription refills.

Glenville also has a local clinic, providing primary care services. The presence of local healthcare providers is a significant advantage. However, the availability of specialists and the need for referrals may still necessitate travel to larger medical centers.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Considerations for Moving**

The "Hypertension Score" for Glenville, WV, reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural setting. While local pharmacies and a primary care clinic offer some convenience, the limited **transportation** options, particularly the absence of reliable public transit and ride-sharing services, are significant drawbacks. The reliance on personal vehicles and the distances to specialized care centers increase travel times and potential burdens.

For individuals managing hypertension, the implications are clear. Regular medical appointments, medication refills, and the potential need for specialist consultations require careful planning and consideration.

Those contemplating **moving to Glenville** must factor in the potential challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. They should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends for assistance, and the potential costs of medical transport services.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that can change based on individual circumstances, the availability of new **transportation** options, and advancements in telehealth. However, for now, the score reflects the realities of **healthcare access** in Glenville, WV, emphasizing the need for careful planning and proactive management of health needs.

The challenges of rural **transportation** and **healthcare access** are significant. While Glenville offers a peaceful lifestyle, individuals with hypertension must proactively address these limitations to ensure they receive the timely and consistent medical care they need.