24312, Austinville, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24312, Austinville, Virginia is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.20 percent of residents in 24312 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewisgale Hospital Pulaski with a distance of 17.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Austinville, VA (ZIP Code 24312)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. In Austinville, Virginia (ZIP Code 24312), a rural landscape with a rich history, the ease and efficiency of **transportation** directly impact the overall health score. This assessment delves into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities surrounding **healthcare access** within this specific geographic area, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering **moving to Austinville**.

The foundation of this evaluation lies in understanding the primary modes of **transportation** available. In Austinville, personal vehicles reign supreme. The primary arteries for navigating the region are Interstate 77 (I-77), a north-south corridor providing connections to major population centers, and US Route 58, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Other key roads include Virginia Route 94, Virginia Route 69, and various county roads that meander through the rolling hills and farmlands.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are crucial. The closest significant healthcare providers are located in Wytheville, Virginia, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via I-77. This drive is generally straightforward, though traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. Further, the Wythe County Community Hospital, a critical resource, is easily accessible. For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Roanoke, Virginia, a journey of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via I-81 and I-581. This longer commute presents a significant barrier, particularly for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Austinville. Wythe County does offer a demand-response public transit system. However, this service is primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities, and its availability is restricted. Route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility details are crucial for those who rely on this service. Information about the specific routes, including their frequency and coverage within the 24312 ZIP code, needs to be readily available and easily accessible to residents. The lack of robust public transit significantly hinders **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles, especially the elderly and those with limited mobility.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the region but their availability is often sporadic. The rural nature of Austinville means that ride-share services may be less reliable than in urban areas, and wait times can be considerably longer. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for individuals requiring timely medical attention. Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical needs, are another option. Companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare may operate in the area, offering scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs, but their availability and coverage within the 24312 ZIP code should be carefully assessed.

The availability of these services, including their coverage area, cost, and ease of scheduling, directly impacts the **healthcare access** score. Information on the specific medical **transportation** brands operating in the area, their service areas, and the types of medical needs they accommodate is essential for residents.

Beyond physical **transportation**, telehealth services offer a valuable alternative. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve **healthcare access** for Austinville residents. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is critical for successful telehealth adoption. The infrastructure for high-speed internet access needs to be assessed, as disparities in internet access can exacerbate existing health inequities.

Furthermore, the availability of urgent care facilities and pharmacies within the 24312 ZIP code contributes to the overall health score. The presence of these resources reduces the need for long-distance travel for minor medical issues and prescription refills. The proximity of these facilities to residential areas, and their operating hours, are crucial factors in determining their impact on **healthcare access**.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Austinville, VA (24312) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for medical **transportation** services all contribute to the challenges. The geographic isolation, coupled with the longer drive times to specialized medical facilities, presents a significant hurdle.

The strengths of Austinville lie in its proximity to Wytheville and its hospital, offering a relatively short drive for routine medical care. However, the limitations of the public **transportation** system and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles. The availability of telehealth services and the expansion of high-speed internet access can improve **healthcare access**.

For those considering **moving to Austinville**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs, considering the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public **transportation**, and the potential for using ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services. The ability to maintain a personal vehicle is paramount for accessing healthcare.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Austinville, VA (24312) is moderate. While the proximity to Wytheville provides a reasonable level of access to basic healthcare, the limited public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the longer travel times to specialized care centers pose challenges. Improving the public **transportation** infrastructure, expanding telehealth services, and increasing the availability of medical **transportation** options would significantly enhance the health score and improve the well-being of the community. The ongoing development of high-speed internet infrastructure is critical for ensuring equitable access to telehealth services, further improving **healthcare access**. The health of the community is directly linked to the ability to access care, and a proactive approach to improving **transportation** and healthcare resources is essential for a thriving Austinville.