26574, Grant Town, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26574, Grant Town, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.00 percent of residents in 26574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Marion with a distance of 9.21 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Grant Town (ZIP Code 26574)

The journey to manage hypertension, a silent threat to cardiovascular health, demands more than just medical expertise; it necessitates reliable **transportation** to ensure consistent **healthcare access**. This write-up assesses the landscape of **transportation** options available to residents of Grant Town, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26574), offering a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease with which individuals can reach vital healthcare services, particularly those crucial for hypertension management. This analysis is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Grant Town**, highlighting the practical considerations of maintaining good health in this community.

Grant Town, nestled in Marion County, offers a specific set of challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**. The town's relative isolation, coupled with the terrain, significantly influences the available **transportation** options. The "Hypertension Score" will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a realistic picture for residents seeking to control their blood pressure.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many Grant Town residents, the private vehicle remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The proximity to major thoroughfares is critical. Interstate 79 (I-79), a vital north-south artery, provides the most direct route to Morgantown, a regional hub for specialized medical care. A drive to WVU Medicine’s facilities in Morgantown, including the Ruby Memorial Hospital, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive is generally straightforward, primarily utilizing I-79 South, offering relatively smooth travel.

The secondary road network, including US Route 19 and County Route 25, provides alternative routes. However, these roads are often winding and can experience delays, especially during inclement weather. Driving to Fairmont, another nearby city offering medical services, typically takes 15 to 20 minutes via US Route 19 South. This route, while shorter, can be prone to congestion during peak hours. The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the importance of these drive times, as consistent access to appointments is crucial for managing hypertension.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public **transportation** options in Grant Town are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Monongalia County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides some service to Grant Town, but the frequency and routes are restricted. The MCTA operates buses that connect Grant Town to Morgantown, offering a potential, albeit less convenient, alternative to driving. However, the bus schedules are not always conducive to medical appointments, and the travel time is considerably longer than driving, often exceeding an hour.

The MCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the availability of accessible **transportation**, recognizing the importance of inclusivity in **healthcare access**. The specific bus routes serving Grant Town and their schedules are subject to change, so it is essential to consult the MCTA website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown area, but their presence in Grant Town is less consistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the potential of ride-sharing, but recognizes its limitations in this context. The reliability of these services is a crucial factor for **healthcare access**, and their availability may not be sufficient for consistent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations or other health concerns. Companies like FirstCall Ambulance and other local providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services can provide door-to-door service, ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and comfortably. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, adding another layer of complexity to the **healthcare access** equation. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the cost and availability of medical **transportation** services, recognizing their critical role for certain individuals.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Moving to Grant Town**

The "Hypertension Score" for Grant Town (ZIP Code 26574) reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access** related to **transportation**. While driving offers relatively quick access to medical facilities in Morgantown and Fairmont, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those without them. Public transit, while available, is limited in frequency and route coverage. Ride-sharing services are not consistently available, and medical **transportation** services, while crucial for some, add to the financial burden.

For individuals **moving to Grant Town**, this score highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration. Those with hypertension should assess their **transportation** needs and explore all available options before relocating. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in advance, understanding local medical **transportation** providers, and familiarizing oneself with the MCTA routes are crucial steps.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving landscape of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. As Grant Town continues to develop, improvements in public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and expansion of medical **transportation** services could significantly improve the score. For now, residents must proactively navigate the existing system, ensuring they have reliable means to reach their healthcare providers and manage their hypertension effectively.