24184, Wirtz, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24184, Wirtz, Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.95 percent of residents in 24184 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24184 (Wirtz, Virginia)

This comprehensive analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 24184, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access. The ability to readily reach medical facilities significantly impacts individual and community well-being. This evaluation considers the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking healthcare in Wirtz, Virginia. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to Wirtz, ensuring they can maintain their health needs.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 24184 is the personal vehicle. The rural nature of the area necessitates reliance on cars for daily errands, including accessing healthcare. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Roanoke, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The primary route involves navigating the winding roads of Virginia, often utilizing Route 122, which connects Wirtz to Roanoke. This route can be subject to delays, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Alternatively, residents can utilize Route 8, a more direct but sometimes congested route, especially near the city limits. This option might offer slightly faster travel times, but the potential for increased traffic warrants consideration. Other local roads like Smith Mountain Lake Parkway provide access to various points within the area, but they generally don't offer direct routes to major medical centers. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can further impact travel times and safety.

Public transportation options within 24184 are limited. The Roanoke Valley MetroMetro, the primary public transit provider for the Roanoke Valley, does not directly serve Wirtz. The closest Metro routes are located in Roanoke, requiring a significant drive to access. This lack of accessible public transit presents a considerable challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, or those with disabilities.

The Metro system does offer some ADA-accessible features on its buses, including ramps and designated seating. However, the absence of routes directly serving Wirtz severely limits its usefulness for healthcare access. The lack of public transit exacerbates the healthcare access challenges, particularly for those unable to drive or afford ride-sharing services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Roanoke area and can provide a transportation alternative. However, their availability in Wirtz may be less consistent than in more urban areas, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather could significantly increase costs. The financial burden of relying on ride-sharing services for regular healthcare appointments can be substantial, potentially impacting individuals' ability to maintain their health.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another potential option. Companies like MedTrans and other regional providers offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations, they often require advance booking and can be expensive, further contributing to the overall cost of healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 24184 is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The drive times to major medical facilities in Roanoke, while not excessively long, can be a barrier for some, particularly those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options exacerbates these challenges.

The ability to maintain good health is intricately linked to the ease with which individuals can access healthcare. The limitations in transportation options in 24184 create significant challenges for residents, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Wirtz.

The geographical isolation of Wirtz, combined with the limited transportation infrastructure, creates a complex situation. The community would benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include exploring the possibility of extending public transit routes, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or expanding medical transportation services within the area.

Furthermore, initiatives that promote telehealth services and encourage the establishment of local healthcare clinics could help mitigate the transportation challenges. These strategies could enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health score for residents of 24184.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is a multifaceted issue. It extends beyond mere travel times, encompassing factors like affordability, accessibility, and the availability of suitable transportation options. The residents of 24184 face significant hurdles in accessing healthcare due to the current transportation landscape.

The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options significantly impacts the health and well-being of individuals living in 24184. The drive times, the lack of public transit, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to a lower overall health score.

The need for improved healthcare access in Wirtz is undeniable. Addressing the transportation challenges is paramount to ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This requires a multi-pronged approach, encompassing infrastructure improvements, service expansion, and community-based initiatives.