24230, Coeburn, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24230, Coeburn, Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.42 percent of residents in 24230 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dickenson Community Hospital with a distance of 15.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24230

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Coeburn, Virginia, ZIP Code 24230 necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A crucial element of this assessment is the transportation infrastructure available, impacting the ability of individuals to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this Appalachian community. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Coeburn, ensuring their healthcare needs can be met.

The primary challenge for residents in 24230 is the rural nature of the area, resulting in limited public transportation options and significant reliance on personal vehicles. The town of Coeburn itself has limited healthcare facilities, necessitating travel to larger towns and cities for specialized care. This geographical constraint directly influences the overall health score, as timely access to medical attention is a cornerstone of well-being.

Driving, therefore, becomes the dominant mode of transportation for healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare in and out of Coeburn is US Route 58 Alternate, a two-lane highway that connects to larger towns like Norton and Wise. Travel times on Route 58A are typically moderate, but can be affected by traffic, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. The scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, while a draw for many, can also pose challenges during winter months, potentially delaying or disrupting travel.

To the north, Route 58A intersects with US Route 58, offering a more direct route to larger cities such as Abingdon, Virginia, and Bristol, Tennessee, which offer a wider array of healthcare providers and hospitals. However, this route involves a longer drive, often exceeding an hour, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The condition of these roads, while generally well-maintained, can still influence travel times and safety, especially for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

Smaller roads like Route 72 and Route 646 provide access to neighboring communities and may be used as alternate routes, but they are often narrower and more winding, potentially adding to travel time and difficulty. These roads are less likely to be cleared quickly during inclement weather, further impacting healthcare access. The efficiency of transportation is a critical component of the overall health score.

Public transportation options in 24230 are extremely limited. The primary provider is the Mountain Empire Transit (MET), which offers a fixed-route bus service. However, the routes and schedules are infrequent, often focusing on connecting Coeburn to larger towns and cities like Norton and Wise. The MET service may not be ideal for those needing to travel to healthcare appointments at specific times, especially if the appointment falls outside the scheduled bus hours.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on MET buses should be considered. While the MET strives to provide accessible transportation, the frequency of service and the coverage area may not fully meet the needs of individuals with disabilities, further impacting their ability to access healthcare. This limitation poses a significant challenge, particularly for those with mobility issues or those who cannot drive.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in some areas, but their presence in 24230 is limited. The availability of drivers can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for healthcare transportation, particularly for those who require scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a vital role in healthcare access. In 24230, emergency medical services are provided by the Coeburn Volunteer Rescue Squad, which responds to emergencies and transports patients to hospitals. However, the response time can be impacted by the distance to the patient and the availability of ambulances.

NEMT services, which transport individuals to medical appointments, are also available, but their availability and coverage may vary. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance they will travel. The cost of NEMT services can also be a factor, potentially impacting the ability of some residents to access necessary healthcare. The reliability of these services is critical for the overall health score.

The healthcare landscape in the region also influences the overall health score. While Coeburn has limited medical facilities, residents can access services in nearby towns and cities. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals in these areas directly impacts the ease of access to care. The quality of care provided by these facilities is also a crucial factor in the overall health score.

For those considering moving to Coeburn, understanding the transportation challenges is paramount. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower overall health score for healthcare access. The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions can also impact the ability of residents to receive timely medical attention.

Furthermore, the cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and the potential for ride-sharing or medical transport fees, can be a significant financial burden for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes. This financial constraint can further limit healthcare access, impacting the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 24230 is significantly influenced by transportation challenges. The rural location, the limited public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to accessing healthcare services. While the availability of medical transport and the proximity to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns provide some relief, the overall health score is negatively impacted by the transportation limitations. For anyone considering moving to Coeburn, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services is crucial to ensure their well-being. Improving public transportation, expanding ride-sharing options, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services would significantly improve the overall health score for residents of 24230.