26818, Fisher, West Virginia Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.25 percent of residents in 26818 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grant Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fisher, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26818)

This analysis assesses healthcare access for residents of Fisher, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26818), focusing on transportation options relevant to managing hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing medical care, particularly for those requiring regular check-ups and medication refills. Understanding these transportation realities is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to Fisher.

Fisher, nestled in the scenic Potomac Highlands, presents unique transportation challenges. The rugged terrain and limited public infrastructure necessitate careful consideration of how individuals, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, can reach their healthcare providers. This write-up details the available options, their limitations, and the overall impact on healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Fisher is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The drive times to healthcare facilities significantly impact the Hypertension Score. The nearest significant healthcare hubs are in Petersburg, approximately 15 miles away, and Moorefield, about 20 miles distant.

Reaching Petersburg typically involves navigating **Route 28** and **US 220**. The drive, while scenic, can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter. Expect a drive time of around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the mountainous terrain can pose challenges for those with mobility limitations or unfamiliar with the area.

Traveling to Moorefield usually requires using **Route 28** and then connecting to **US 33**. This route is slightly longer, with an estimated drive time of 30-45 minutes. Similar to the Petersburg route, weather and road conditions can impact travel times. Drivers should be aware of potential delays due to seasonal changes and be prepared for rural driving conditions.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, is a crucial factor influencing the Hypertension Score. Delays due to snow, ice, or accidents can significantly impact a patient's ability to attend appointments and pick up medications, directly affecting their health management.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Fisher are extremely limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive due to age, disability, or other limitations.

While there are no regular bus routes, the Potomac Highlands Transit Authority (PHTA) may offer demand-response transportation services. These services, often requiring advance booking, are typically designed to serve the elderly, disabled, and low-income populations. However, the availability and reliability of PHTA services in Fisher are limited and should not be considered a primary transportation option.

The absence of readily available public transit exacerbates the healthcare access challenges for residents of Fisher, highlighting the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Fisher. The rural nature of the area and the limited demand make it economically unfeasible for these services to operate. This further limits transportation options for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services, however, may be available. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to patients covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs.

One potential provider is **Valley Medical Transport**, which operates in the region and may provide services to Fisher residents. Another potential provider is **American Medical Response (AMR)**. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and advance booking is usually required. The reliability of these services is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score, as delays or cancellations can disrupt appointments and medication schedules.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The overall Hypertension Score for Fisher, West Virginia, is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to attend regular appointments, pick up medications, and receive timely medical care is paramount. The drive times to healthcare facilities, coupled with potential weather-related delays, can make it challenging to adhere to treatment plans.

The lack of alternative transportation options further compounds these challenges, particularly for those unable to drive. This situation can lead to missed appointments, delayed medication refills, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

**Moving to Fisher and Healthcare Considerations:**

Individuals considering moving to Fisher, especially those with pre-existing health conditions like hypertension, must carefully assess the transportation challenges. They should thoroughly investigate the availability of medical transportation services and consider the practicality of relying on personal vehicles.

Potential residents should also research the proximity of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies, and factor in the travel times and potential delays. Planning for transportation needs, including backup options, is crucial for ensuring consistent access to healthcare.

The Hypertension Score for Fisher reflects the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness when it comes to managing healthcare needs. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the transportation challenges should be carefully considered to ensure access to the necessary medical care.