24248, Ewing, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24248, Ewing, Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.58 percent of residents in 24248 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lee County Community Hospital with a distance of 23.31 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24248

Ewing, Virginia, nestled in the heart of Lee County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities for its residents. When considering the overall health of a community, accessibility to healthcare is paramount. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 24248, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, thereby influencing their overall health score. This analysis will inform those considering moving to Ewing, offering a clear picture of healthcare access.

The primary obstacle to healthcare access in 24248 is the rural nature of the area. Long distances, coupled with limited public transportation options, create a significant hurdle. The health score, therefore, is intrinsically linked to the ability to navigate these geographical constraints. The effectiveness of the transportation infrastructure directly impacts the residents’ ability to receive timely medical attention, preventative care, and follow-up treatments.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The most common mode of transportation in 24248 is personal vehicles. Navigating the roads is essential for healthcare access. Primary routes include US-58, a vital east-west artery, and US-421, which provides north-south connectivity. Driving times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are critical determinants of healthcare access.

Lee County Community Hospital in Pennington Gap, approximately 25 miles from Ewing, is a key healthcare destination. A drive along US-58, typically taking 40-50 minutes, is the most direct route. However, this estimate is subject to change depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's experience. The secondary route, utilizing US-421, might add an additional 10-15 minutes to the journey, depending on the specific origin point within 24248.

Further afield, larger hospitals like Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, offer a broader range of specialized services. This journey, involving a drive of approximately 70 miles via US-58 and I-26, can take upwards of 1 hour and 30 minutes, potentially longer during peak traffic hours. This extended travel time underscores the challenges faced by residents requiring advanced medical care.

**Public Transportation: A Sparse Network**

Public transportation options in 24248 are extremely limited, significantly impacting the health score. Lee County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. This deficiency disproportionately affects individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income families.

There are no regularly scheduled bus routes or fixed-route public transit services within the ZIP code. This absence forces residents to rely on alternative methods, further complicating healthcare access. The lack of public transportation is a significant negative factor in the overall health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the general region, but their presence in 24248 is often sporadic and unreliable. Availability depends on driver density, which is generally lower in rural areas. This uncertainty makes ride-sharing a less-than-dependable option for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring ambulance services. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services often come with significant costs, posing a financial barrier for some residents.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and healthcare facilities. However, the limited public transit options in 24248 and the reliance on personal vehicles raise concerns about ADA compliance. The absence of accessible transportation options exacerbates healthcare access challenges for individuals with disabilities, contributing to a lower health score.

The availability of accessible parking, ramps, and elevators at healthcare facilities is crucial. While most healthcare providers strive to meet ADA standards, the long distances and lack of accessible transportation can still hinder access for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in 24248 is not solely determined by transportation. The availability of healthcare providers, the types of services offered, and the affordability of care all play critical roles. The distance to the nearest hospital is just one facet of the equation.

The lack of local primary care physicians and specialists necessitates travel to other towns and cities, further increasing the reliance on transportation. The cost of healthcare, including transportation expenses, can be a significant burden for many residents. These factors, combined with the transportation challenges, contribute to a lower overall health score.

**Impact on the Health Score: A Comprehensive View**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 24248 is moderate to low. The primary factors contributing to this score are the limited public transportation options, the long distances to healthcare facilities, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services.

Residents without personal vehicles face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families are particularly vulnerable. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, impacting preventative care and the management of chronic conditions.

The health score is further impacted by the availability of specialized medical services. Residents often need to travel to larger cities for specialized care, increasing travel times and costs. The overall health score reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare provider availability, and affordability.

**Moving to Ewing: Considering Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Ewing, 24248, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. The ability to drive and the availability of a reliable vehicle are crucial. Prospective residents should research the location of healthcare facilities, estimate travel times, and consider the potential costs of transportation.

Individuals with disabilities or those who rely on public transportation should carefully evaluate the limitations of the existing infrastructure. The lack of readily available public transit options can create significant challenges.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 24248 highlights the need for continued efforts to improve transportation options. This could include exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit services, promoting ride-sharing programs, and increasing the availability of medical transportation services. Investing in healthcare infrastructure, including telemedicine, could also help mitigate the challenges posed by geographical isolation. The health and well-being of the residents depend on it.