24266, Lebanon, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24266, Lebanon, Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.66 percent of residents in 24266 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Russell County Hospital with a distance of 0.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24266 (Lebanon, Virginia)

Considering a move to Lebanon, Virginia (ZIP Code 24266)? Understanding healthcare access is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for the area, focusing on the critical component of transportation to healthcare facilities. We'll dissect drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

**Overall Health Score:** **Moderate**

This score reflects a balance of strengths and weaknesses. While Lebanon offers a relatively rural setting, its healthcare access is somewhat limited by the region's transportation infrastructure. This score indicates that while healthcare is available, accessing it may require careful planning and potentially longer travel times compared to more urban areas.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Lebanon is personal vehicle transportation. Drive times are significantly impacted by the limited road network and the sprawling nature of the county. Primary access points to healthcare facilities involve navigating the main arteries.

For residents in the heart of Lebanon, the journey to **Russell County Medical Center** is generally manageable. Expect a drive time of approximately 5-10 minutes via **US-19**, a major north-south corridor. This is a significant advantage for those needing immediate care.

However, for specialized services, residents often need to travel further afield. The nearest major hospital, **Bristol Regional Medical Center** in Bristol, Tennessee, requires a journey of approximately 45-60 minutes, primarily via **US-19** and **I-81**. This longer commute can be a significant barrier, especially during emergencies or for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

Traveling to **Holston Valley Medical Center** in Kingsport, Tennessee, adds to the drive time, stretching to around 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily via **US-19** and **I-26**. This highlights the geographical challenges inherent in accessing specialized care in this region.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Lebanon is limited. The **Russell County Public Transportation** offers a demand-response service, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service can be a lifeline for some, it is not a comprehensive public transit system.

The availability of fixed-route buses is virtually non-existent. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The demand-response system requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the demand-response service is crucial for those with mobility impairments. However, the limited hours of operation and the need for pre-booking can create challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Lebanon, though their reliability and availability can vary. Their presence offers an alternative transportation option, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for longer distances to hospitals in Bristol or Kingsport.

Medical transport services, such as **MedTrans** and **FirstCall Medical Transport**, cater specifically to patients needing non-emergency medical transportation. These services are essential for those requiring assistance with mobility or who need to travel to appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Lebanon is moderated by several factors. The relatively short drive time to the Russell County Medical Center is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care create challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some relief, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors. The geographical distance to major hospitals in Bristol and Kingsport adds to the complexity of healthcare access.

**Moving to Lebanon: Considerations**

If you are considering moving to Lebanon, Virginia, and healthcare access is a priority, it is essential to carefully consider the transportation options available. Assess your personal mobility needs and financial resources.

Evaluate the availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transport. Determine if the demand-response public transit service meets your needs. Factor in the drive times to specialized medical facilities in Bristol and Kingsport.

The overall health score reflects the need for careful planning and resourcefulness to ensure adequate healthcare access in Lebanon. Prioritize your health needs and evaluate the available transportation options to make an informed decision.