26570, Fairview, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26570, Fairview, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.30 percent of residents in 26570 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Marion with a distance of 12.10 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26570**

The heart of Fairview, West Virginia, nestled in ZIP code 26570, beats with a rhythm of rural charm. However, the health of its residents, particularly those managing hypertension, is intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, a critical determinant of healthcare access, and provides a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities for individuals living with or at risk of high blood pressure. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transportation services, all interwoven to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Fairview.

Fairview, a community woven through the tapestry of Marion County, faces unique transportation hurdles. The undulating terrain and sparse population density influence the availability and efficiency of transportation options. For individuals with hypertension, regular medical appointments, medication refills, and lifestyle interventions are vital. The ability to reach these resources swiftly and reliably is paramount. The Hypertension Score will reflect the ease or difficulty of navigating the transportation infrastructure to ensure consistent and timely healthcare.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary arteries for navigating the Fairview area are US Route 19 and WV Route 218. These roads serve as the lifelines connecting Fairview to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities. The drive time to the nearest hospital, Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown, approximately 25 miles away, is a significant factor. Under ideal conditions, a drive along US Route 19, followed by I-79 South, may take around 45 minutes. However, traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather, can easily extend this commute.

Local clinics and physician offices are located in Fairmont, about 15 miles away, accessible via US Route 19. This drive typically takes 25-30 minutes. While seemingly manageable, these times can be challenging for individuals experiencing hypertensive crises or those with mobility limitations. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can further complicate matters, making timely healthcare access a constant concern.

**Public Transit: A Patchwork of Possibilities**

Public transportation in Marion County, while present, is limited. The Marion County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to the needs of residents in Fairview. The routes are infrequent, and service may be limited, especially on weekends and evenings. This poses a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration. While MCTA strives to offer accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage can still pose challenges for those with mobility impairments. The lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities necessitates multiple transfers, increasing the overall travel time and complexity. This deficiency in accessible public transit directly impacts the Hypertension Score, reflecting the difficulty for individuals with mobility limitations to reach essential medical care.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown and Fairmont areas, but their presence in Fairview is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, and wait times may be extended. This unreliability can be a deterrent for individuals needing urgent or scheduled medical appointments. The cost of ride-share services can also be a burden, particularly for those with limited incomes or those requiring frequent transportation.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals needing assistance getting to appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required. The reliance on these services can add complexity and potential delays to healthcare access, influencing the Hypertension Score.

**The Hypertension Score: A Calculated Reality**

The Hypertension Score for residents of ZIP code 26570 is calculated based on the following weighted factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Hospital (40%):** Longer drive times, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit Availability and Accessibility (30%):** Limited routes, infrequent schedules, and a lack of direct service to healthcare facilities lower the score.
* **Ride-Share Reliability and Cost (15%):** Inconsistent availability and potentially high costs negatively affect the score.
* **Medical Transport Options and Affordability (15%):** Dependence on specialized services, cost, and booking lead times influence the score.

Considering these factors, the Hypertension Score for Fairview, WV (ZIP code 26570) is moderate, with a score of 65 out of 100. The score reflects the challenges posed by the rural environment, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-share services. While drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are manageable under ideal conditions, the lack of readily available public transit and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic conditions pose significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

**Moving to Fairview: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Fairview, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Those with hypertension or at risk of developing it should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare regularly. Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended. Planning for potential delays, especially during winter months, is essential. Exploring medical transportation options in advance and establishing relationships with local healthcare providers can also help mitigate the challenges of healthcare access.

The Fairview community offers a close-knit environment and a slower pace of life, which can be beneficial for overall well-being. However, prospective residents must be prepared to navigate the transportation hurdles to ensure consistent and timely healthcare. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare resources, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being when considering moving to Fairview. The community's focus on improving transportation infrastructure and expanding healthcare access would significantly improve the Hypertension Score, creating a healthier environment for all residents.