24162, Shawsville, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24162, Shawsville, Virginia is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.33 percent of residents in 24162 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewisgale Hospital Montgomery with a distance of 8.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24162

Understanding the overall health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of healthcare services but also the ease with which residents can access them. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 24162, encompassing the town of Shawsville, Virginia, and evaluates the transportation landscape as it relates to healthcare access. This is a crucial consideration for anyone moving to Shawsville, as the journey to receive care significantly impacts overall well-being.

The geographical reality of Shawsville, nestled in the scenic Roanoke Valley, presents both opportunities and challenges. The area boasts natural beauty, but its rural nature influences transportation options and, consequently, healthcare access. The overall health score, therefore, reflects the interplay between the availability of medical facilities and the practicalities of reaching them.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. This necessitates an understanding of drive times to various healthcare providers. From Shawsville, the most direct route to Roanoke, a regional hub for healthcare, typically involves using **Route 460** and **Interstate 81**. Drive times to Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Carilion Clinic, and other major facilities generally range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

However, the journey can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours. Accidents on **Interstate 81** or **Route 460** can cause considerable delays, potentially jeopardizing timely access to medical care. Furthermore, those without personal vehicles face greater challenges.

Public transportation options in Shawsville are limited. The Roanoke Valley MetroMetro, the primary public transit provider for the region, offers routes that extend into the outskirts of Roanoke. However, these routes are not designed to serve Shawsville directly. This means that public transit users must rely on a combination of services, potentially involving a drive to a park-and-ride location or a lengthy multi-leg journey.

The lack of direct public transit options presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This includes elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The availability of ADA-accessible features on any public transit routes that do serve the area, such as ramps, lifts, and designated seating, becomes critically important.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Roanoke Valley. However, their availability in Shawsville may be less consistent than in more urban areas. Surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or in times of high demand, can also make these services financially prohibitive for some.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like FirstCall Medical Transportation and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are often covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs for eligible individuals.

These services typically involve scheduled pickups and drop-offs, ensuring that patients can arrive at their appointments safely and on time. However, the availability of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required. The reliability and responsiveness of these services are crucial factors in determining the overall health score.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 24162 is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options. While drive times to major healthcare facilities in Roanoke are generally reasonable, the potential for traffic delays and the lack of alternative transportation options pose challenges, especially for vulnerable populations.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides some relief, but their accessibility and affordability can vary. The overall score reflects a balance between reasonable access for those with personal vehicles and the need for improved transportation options to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.

The score also considers the importance of proximity to urgent care facilities and pharmacies within the immediate vicinity of Shawsville. While major medical services are primarily located in Roanoke, the availability of local resources can mitigate the need for frequent long-distance travel.

For individuals moving to Shawsville, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability of alternative transportation options and the potential for delays.

Furthermore, the overall health score is not static. It can be improved through investments in public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the promotion of medical transportation options. Community initiatives that address transportation barriers and promote healthcare access can significantly enhance the overall health and well-being of Shawsville residents.

The overall health score, therefore, is a dynamic measure that reflects the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in the community. It is a critical consideration for residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers alike. The goal is to create a transportation landscape that ensures that all residents of 24162 have timely and affordable access to the medical care they need, improving the overall health and quality of life in Shawsville.