24313, Barren Springs, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24313, Barren Springs, Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.19 percent of residents in 24313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewisgale Hospital Pulaski with a distance of 11.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24313 (Barren Springs, VA)

Welcome to the health assessment for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 24313, Barren Springs, Virginia. This analysis considers various factors, from transportation options to the availability of medical facilities, to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score'. Understanding these elements is crucial for residents and those contemplating moving to Barren Springs, ensuring informed decisions about healthcare access. This assessment emphasizes the vital link between effective **transportation** and the ability to receive timely and appropriate **healthcare access**.

Barren Springs, a rural community nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. Its geographical isolation necessitates a thorough examination of available transportation options. The success of **healthcare access** hinges on the efficiency and reliability of these pathways.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Barren Springs are Virginia State Route 100 and US Route 58. These two highways serve as the main arteries for **transportation** within and outside the community. Traveling to major medical facilities requires navigating these routes, often winding through scenic but sometimes challenging terrain.

For residents requiring specialized care, the drive times to hospitals and clinics in neighboring towns and cities become significant. For example, a trip to the nearest hospital, located in Pulaski, Virginia, could take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The journey involves primarily using Route 100. Further, the drive to larger medical centers in Roanoke, Virginia, which may be necessary for specialized treatments, can extend to 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily utilizing US Route 58 and Interstate 81.

The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and safety. Snow and ice can make travel treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to healthcare. Therefore, residents must consider the potential for weather-related disruptions when planning medical appointments. The infrastructure's state directly impacts **healthcare access** for the community.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Barren Springs and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider of public **transportation** in the region is the New River Valley Public Transit (NRVPT). However, NRVPT's services in this area are infrequent and operate on a limited schedule. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the **healthcare access** of those who do not own a vehicle, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents.

The NRVPT does offer some routes that may serve the general area, but these are not specifically designed to provide direct access to medical facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is limited, potentially creating barriers for individuals with mobility impairments. The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative **transportation** methods for **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Barren Springs is often sporadic and dependent on driver availability. This unreliability can make scheduling medical appointments a challenge, particularly for those needing to travel to facilities outside of the immediate area. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, impacting their ability to access necessary care.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available for individuals who require assistance with **transportation** to medical appointments. These services are typically reserved for those with specific medical needs or disabilities. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and wait times may be longer in rural areas. Finding reliable **healthcare access** is a major concern for residents.

**Medical Facility Availability:**

The availability of medical facilities within ZIP Code 24313 is limited. The community relies on a combination of local clinics and hospitals in nearby towns and cities to meet its healthcare needs. This reliance on external facilities increases the importance of reliable **transportation** options.

The distance to these facilities, coupled with the limitations of public transit, underscores the need for residents to have access to personal vehicles or rely on family and friends for **transportation**. This situation can create challenges for those without personal vehicles or those who lack social support networks. The limited local resources directly affect **healthcare access**.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 24313 is negatively impacted by several factors. The limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the geographical distances to medical facilities all contribute to a lower score. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options can create significant barriers to **healthcare access**, potentially leading to delayed or missed medical appointments.

The score is further affected by the potential for weather-related disruptions and the limited availability of ride-sharing services. These factors can make it challenging for residents to access timely and appropriate medical care. While medical transport services are available, their accessibility and cost may pose challenges for some individuals.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

To improve the Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in Barren Springs, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding public transit options, including routes specifically designed to serve medical facilities, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could also help.

Increasing the availability of medical transport services and ensuring their affordability would further enhance **healthcare access**. Promoting community awareness of available **transportation** resources and assisting residents in navigating the healthcare system could also prove beneficial.

For individuals considering **moving to Barren Springs**, it is crucial to carefully assess their **transportation** needs and their ability to access medical care. Those with mobility impairments or those who rely on public transit should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 24313 reflects the complex interplay between **transportation** and the availability of medical resources. While the community faces challenges due to its rural location and limited public transit, efforts to improve **transportation** options and expand access to medical services can significantly enhance the health and well-being of its residents. Understanding these factors is essential for both current residents and those contemplating **moving to Barren Springs**, ensuring informed decisions about their healthcare needs.