24273, Norton, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24273, Norton, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.78 percent of residents in 24273 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lonesome Pine Hospital with a distance of 8.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24273

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 24273, encompassing the town of Norton, Virginia, is significantly influenced by its accessibility to healthcare. This write-up will delve into the intricacies of transportation options, drive times, and available services, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. The goal is to paint a vivid picture for those considering moving to Norton, Virginia, and to highlight the realities of healthcare access in this Appalachian community.

The geographic isolation of Norton, nestled in the heart of Southwest Virginia, presents a unique set of circumstances. While the town offers a sense of community and natural beauty, its location directly impacts the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. Transportation becomes a critical factor in determining the overall health and well-being of the population.

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

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 24273 is the personal vehicle. The drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are significantly affected by the mountainous terrain and limited road infrastructure. The primary thoroughfare is **US Route 58**, a vital east-west artery that connects Norton to larger regional hubs. Traveling east on US-58 will lead residents toward Abingdon, Virginia, approximately 60 miles away, where the **Ballad Health** system operates **Bristol Regional Medical Center**. This drive, under optimal conditions, can take around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Westward on US-58, the journey leads towards Cumberland, Kentucky, but this direction does not offer significant healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance. **Virginia State Route 16** is another important road, providing a north-south connection, although it does not directly connect to major medical centers. Residents must navigate these roadways, often winding through scenic but challenging mountain passes. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further complicate healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Safety Net**

Public transportation options in Norton are severely limited. The primary mode of public transit is the **LENOWISCO Planning District Commission**, which offers demand-response transportation services. These services, while available, are typically designed for non-emergency medical transportation and require advance booking. The accessibility features for individuals with disabilities (ADA) are available, but the limited capacity and scheduling constraints make this option less than ideal for urgent or routine medical appointments.

The lack of a robust public transit system exacerbates the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes. The limitations of public transit are a critical factor in the overall health score.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally unavailable in the 24273 ZIP Code, further limiting transportation options. This absence forces residents to rely on other alternatives. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline.

Several medical transport providers serve the area, including **Med-Trans Corporation** and local private companies. These services, while essential, often come with significant costs, adding to the financial burden of healthcare. The availability of these services is also limited, requiring advance booking and potentially resulting in longer wait times. The reliance on medical transport underscores the vulnerability of the community when it comes to healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in Norton is not solely defined by transportation. The availability of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals, is also a crucial factor. The town has a local hospital, **Norton Community Hospital**, which provides essential services. However, residents often need to travel to larger regional centers for specialized care.

The distance to these specialized facilities, combined with the transportation challenges, creates a complex web of obstacles. The lack of readily available transportation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, impacting the continuity of care and potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. This reality is a significant consideration for anyone considering moving to Norton.

**Specific Considerations for Moving to Norton**

For individuals considering moving to Norton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is paramount. Those with chronic conditions or requiring regular medical appointments should carefully evaluate the transportation options and drive times to ensure they can access the necessary care.

The limited public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services necessitate careful planning. The cost of medical transportation, the potential for long wait times, and the impact of weather conditions on travel should all be considered.

The availability of telehealth services can partially mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a substitute for all medical care, and the need for in-person appointments will always exist.

**Overall Health Score: A Realistic Assessment**

The overall health score for residents of 24273 is significantly impacted by the challenges of healthcare access. While Norton offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the transportation limitations and the distance to specialized medical facilities create significant barriers.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to a lower overall health score. Individuals considering moving to Norton must carefully weigh these factors and assess their healthcare needs to make an informed decision. The community's health and well-being are inextricably linked to its ability to access timely and affordable medical care. The future of healthcare access in Norton will depend on innovative solutions that address these transportation challenges and ensure that all residents can receive the care they need.