24219, Big Stone Gap, Virginia Overall Health Score

The Overall Health Score in 24219, Big Stone Gap, Virginia is 8 out of 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.29 percent of the population in 24219 drive to work alone. 0.00 percent of the people take some form of public transportation like the bus or the train to work. Approximately 75.42 percent of the residents get to work in less than 30 minutes. 8.96 percent of the residents in 24219 get to work in more than 60 minutes. The average household size is approximately 2.43 members with about 2.23 cars available per household.

An estimate of 83.08 percent of the residents in 24219 has some form of health insurance. 39.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.47 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 24219 would have to travel an average of 0.67 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Lonesome Pine Hospital . In a 20-mile radius, there are 379 healthcare providers accessible to residents in 24219, Big Stone Gap, Virginia.

As of , an estimate of 11,218 residents live in 24219 with a median age of 42.0 years. 18.72 percent of the population is under the age of 18, and 15.88 percent of the population is at least 65 years of age. 33.12 percent of the residents in 24219 is currently married, and 27.08 percent of the population has never been married.

The monthly median household income in 24219 is $5,543.17. The monthly median housing costs for residents in 24219 is approximately $695. The median household spends about 12.54 percent of their income on housing.

Big Stone Gap, Virginia, is a charming town nestled in the heart of Appalachia, with a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. The town's name is derived from the natural gap in the Appalachian Mountains that allowed early settlers to pass through and establish a community. Today, Big Stone Gap continues to be a vibrant and close-knit town, offering a variety of healthcare amenities and unique local health initiatives for its residents.

Healthcare Accessibility and Amenities

When it comes to healthcare amenities, Big Stone Gap offers several options for its residents. The Lonesome Pine Hospital, located at 1990 Holton Avenue East, is the primary healthcare facility serving the town and surrounding areas. The hospital provides a range of services including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient care, surgical services, diagnostic imaging, and rehabilitation services. With a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, Lonesome Pine Hospital is committed to providing high-quality care to the community.

In addition to the hospital, Big Stone Gap is also home to several medical clinics and practices that offer primary care, specialty care, and preventive services. Residents have access to family medicine practitioners, pediatricians, internal medicine specialists, and other healthcare providers who play a crucial role in promoting wellness and addressing medical needs within the community.

For those with long-term illnesses or disabilities, Big Stone Gap offers resources to support their healthcare needs. The Mountain Empire Older Citizens (MEOC) organization provides home-based care services for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Their programs include personal care assistance, respite care, adult day services, medication management, and more. MEOC plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals with long-term illnesses or disabilities can access the care they need while remaining in their homes and within their community.

Local Health Initiatives

Big Stone Gap takes pride in its commitment to promoting health and wellness within the community. One notable local health initiative is the Healthy Appalachia Institute (HAI), which is based at The University of Virginia's College at Wise campus. HAI focuses on addressing health disparities in rural Appalachia through research, education, and community engagement. The institute collaborates with local organizations and healthcare providers to develop innovative solutions for improving health outcomes in the region.

Another unique feature of Big Stone Gap is its emphasis on outdoor recreation as a means of promoting physical activity and overall well-being. The town boasts scenic trails for hiking and biking, as well as opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation. These outdoor amenities contribute to a healthy lifestyle for residents by encouraging regular exercise and time spent in nature.

Proximity of Healthcare Facilities

In terms of proximity, most healthcare facilities in Big Stone Gap are conveniently located within the town or just a short drive away. This accessibility benefits residents by reducing travel time when seeking medical care or accessing essential health services.

For those who rely on public transportation or ride-sharing services for their healthcare needs, Big Stone Gap offers bus routes operated by Mountain Lynx Transit that connect various parts of the town with the hospital and medical clinics. Additionally, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the area, providing alternative transportation options for individuals who may not have access to a personal vehicle.

Brief History of Big Stone Gap

The history of Big Stone Gap is deeply intertwined with its coal mining heritage. In the late 1800s, the discovery of coal reserves in the region led to a period of rapid growth and prosperity for the town. As a result, Big Stone Gap became an important hub for coal production and attracted workers from diverse backgrounds seeking employment opportunities.

The town's historical significance is preserved through sites such as the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park located at 10 West 1st Street North. This museum showcases exhibits that highlight the cultural heritage of Southwest Virginia's coal mining communities and provides insights into the town's past.

Locals' Typical Access to Healthcare

Residents of Big Stone Gap typically access healthcare through a combination of primary care providers, specialty clinics, and the local hospital. Many individuals have established relationships with specific healthcare professionals who serve as their primary point of contact for medical needs.

For routine appointments or non-emergency care, residents often visit medical clinics located within Big Stone Gap or nearby communities such as Norton or Wise. These clinics offer various services ranging from preventive screenings to chronic disease management.

Overall, Big Stone Gap offers a comprehensive range of healthcare amenities while also embracing initiatives aimed at improving community health outcomes. With its accessible healthcare facilities, local health initiatives like HAI's efforts to address disparities in rural Appalachia's health landscape provide valuable resources for residents' wellness needs.