24228, Clintwood, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24228, Clintwood, Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.00 percent of residents in 24228 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dickenson Community Hospital with a distance of 0.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24228 (Clintwood, Virginia)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, and understanding the transportation infrastructure is paramount. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 24228, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. We delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, offering a comprehensive perspective for those considering moving to Clintwood.

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility in Clintwood, Virginia, is the reliance on personal vehicles. The rugged terrain and sparse population density contribute to limited public transit options. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, acknowledging the challenges posed by geographical isolation. We will analyze the available resources to assess the overall healthcare access for residents of 24228.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The predominant method of transportation for healthcare access in Clintwood is by personal vehicle. The town is served by a network of highways and local roads, which significantly impact travel times. Residents primarily utilize **US Route 23**, a major north-south thoroughfare, for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Clintwood. This highway offers a relatively direct route to larger towns and cities, such as Pikeville, Kentucky, and Grundy, Virginia, where more specialized medical services are available.

Traveling east or west on **VA Route 83** provides access to smaller clinics and medical offices, however, it is often a slower route due to its winding nature and limited capacity. The drive times to these facilities vary considerably depending on the destination and traffic conditions. In general, residents of 24228 can expect drive times of 15-30 minutes to reach local clinics and urgent care facilities. More specialized care, such as hospitals and specialist offices, often necessitates travel times exceeding one hour, particularly to larger cities like Kingsport, Tennessee.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While US Route 23 is generally well-maintained, local roads like VA Route 83 can be subject to seasonal weather-related issues, such as snow and ice during the winter months. These conditions can significantly extend travel times and pose safety concerns, particularly for those with mobility limitations or medical emergencies.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in Clintwood are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the town or providing regular service to neighboring communities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals who do not own vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

While there are no fixed-route bus services, some residents may be able to utilize the services of the **Dickenson County Department of Social Services**. This agency may offer limited transportation assistance for medical appointments to eligible individuals. However, the availability and scope of these services are often restricted and may require advance scheduling.

The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge to healthcare access in Clintwood. This limitation underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation solutions and the need for improved accessibility for those with mobility limitations. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit options further exacerbates the difficulties faced by individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

In the absence of robust public transit, ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offer alternative solutions for healthcare access. While ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** may operate in larger cities near Clintwood, their availability in the town and surrounding areas is extremely limited. The sparse population density and geographic isolation make it difficult for these services to maintain a consistent presence.

Medical transportation services, on the other hand, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or are unable to drive themselves.

**Medical Transportation of Southwest Virginia** is a potential option for residents of 24228. These companies offer various levels of service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. However, the availability of these services can vary, and advance booking is usually required. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant factor, as it is often not covered by insurance.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score":**

Considering the transportation challenges, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 24228 is moderate. While local clinics and urgent care facilities are accessible within a reasonable drive time for most residents, accessing specialized medical services often requires significant travel.

The limited public transit options and the dependence on personal vehicles create barriers for certain segments of the population. Individuals without access to a car, the elderly, and those with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services further compounds these difficulties.

The "Overall Health Score" is also influenced by the availability of medical transportation services. While these services offer a valuable lifeline for some, their cost and availability can be limiting factors. The overall score reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure and increased healthcare access for residents of 24228.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Clintwood:**

For individuals considering moving to Clintwood, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Those with chronic medical conditions or requiring frequent specialist visits should carefully evaluate the drive times and transportation options.

It is crucial to research the availability of medical transportation services and assess their affordability and accessibility. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle should explore alternative transportation solutions, such as carpooling with neighbors or family members.

Furthermore, prospective residents should familiarize themselves with the location of local clinics, urgent care facilities, and hospitals. Understanding the healthcare landscape and the transportation infrastructure is critical for making an informed decision about moving to Clintwood.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the healthcare accessibility in ZIP Code 24228. While the town offers a close-knit community and a rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation infrastructure present challenges for healthcare access. By understanding these challenges and exploring available solutions, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure their well-being.