24067, Callaway, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24067, Callaway, Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.09 percent of residents in 24067 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.16 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24067**

Nestled in the heart of Franklin County, Virginia, the 24067 ZIP code, encompassing the charming community of Callaway, presents a unique tapestry of rural living. However, the idyllic setting also poses challenges, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis delves into the intricacies of navigating the transportation landscape to reach essential medical services, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare within and from this specific area.

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access medical care. In Callaway, transportation emerges as a critical factor. The distance to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, coupled with the available modes of transport, significantly impacts the overall health score. We will examine the primary transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture.

For residents of Callaway, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars highlights the rural nature of the area, where public transit options are limited. The major roadways serving the region include the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic route that offers stunning views but is not a practical route for daily commutes. State Route 122, a vital artery, connects Callaway to larger towns like Rocky Mount and Roanoke.

The drive to Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital in Rocky Mount, a primary healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via State Route 122. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage for residents. However, this accessibility is dependent on personal vehicle ownership and the ability to drive.

Traveling to Roanoke, the nearest city with a broader range of healthcare facilities, presents a more considerable challenge. The journey to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, a major regional medical center, involves a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, primarily utilizing State Route 122 and then connecting to US-220. This extended travel time can be a significant burden, especially for those requiring urgent care or facing mobility limitations.

Public transportation options within and around Callaway are notably limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This lack of public transportation directly contributes to a lower "Overall Health Score" for those reliant on alternative means of travel.

While fixed-route bus services are not available within Callaway, the Roanoke Valley Area Transit (SMART) operates routes in the Roanoke area. However, these routes do not extend into Callaway, making them inaccessible for residents. The absence of public transit options necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical transport.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Callaway is variable. Ride-sharing services are often less readily available in rural areas than in urban centers. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of medical transport services is a critical component of healthcare access, especially for individuals with disabilities or those requiring specialized care. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including MedExpress and AMR (American Medical Response). These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, as well as ambulance services for emergencies.

The cost of medical transport can be substantial, depending on the distance and the level of care required. Insurance coverage for medical transport varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be a significant financial burden for some residents. The availability and affordability of medical transport are essential factors influencing the "Overall Health Score."

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in the 24067 ZIP code is moderately impacted by the challenges in transportation. While the proximity to Rocky Mount and Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital offers a degree of accessibility, the limitations in public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport create barriers for some residents.

The "Overall Health Score" is also affected by the demographic characteristics of the community. The presence of a significant elderly population or individuals with disabilities can exacerbate the challenges of healthcare access. These populations are often more reliant on alternative transportation options and may face greater difficulties in reaching medical appointments.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the 24067 ZIP code itself is also a crucial factor. While the area may have some local clinics or medical practices, the need to travel to larger facilities in Rocky Mount or Roanoke for specialized care or emergency services highlights the importance of transportation.

The "Overall Health Score" reflects the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare services. It considers the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, the cost of medical transport, and the demographic characteristics of the community.

For individuals considering moving to Callaway, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Potential residents should assess their transportation needs and consider the availability and cost of various transportation options. The ability to drive and the availability of a personal vehicle are significant advantages.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as advocating for expanded public transit services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing providers, and supporting programs that provide financial assistance for medical transportation. These efforts would contribute to a higher "Overall Health Score" and improve the well-being of the residents.

In conclusion, the 24067 ZIP code presents a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. While the drive to Rocky Mount offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the cost of alternative transportation methods pose challenges. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, emphasizing the importance of transportation in ensuring that all residents can access the medical care they need.