24354, Marion, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24354, Marion, Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.26 percent of residents in 24354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Smyth County Community Hospital with a distance of 3.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24354 (Marion, Virginia)

Understanding the overall health score for a community requires a deep dive into the intricate relationship between its residents and their access to healthcare. In ZIP Code 24354, encompassing Marion, Virginia, this relationship is significantly shaped by transportation infrastructure, available healthcare facilities, and the socioeconomic landscape. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the commute to healthcare, considering factors like drive times, public transportation options, and alternative transportation services, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Marion.

The foundation of healthcare access in Marion lies in its road network. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles to reach medical appointments. The primary arteries for navigating the area are Interstate 81, US Route 11, and US Route 16. Interstate 81 provides a swift north-south corridor, connecting Marion to larger regional medical centers in Roanoke and Bristol. US Route 11, a historic highway, offers a more local route, traversing the town and connecting to nearby communities. US Route 16, running east-west, provides access to Smyth County and neighboring counties.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within Marion are generally manageable. The Smyth County Community Hospital, a critical access hospital, is centrally located and typically accessible within a 10-15 minute drive for most residents. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger regional centers. A trip to Roanoke, home to the Carilion Clinic, can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic conditions on Interstate 81. Similarly, a journey to Bristol, with its own array of healthcare providers, requires approximately a 45-minute drive. These longer drive times, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility, can significantly impact healthcare access and overall health outcomes.

Public transportation options in Marion are limited. The primary provider is the Smyth County Transportation Service, offering demand-response services. While the service aims to provide transportation to medical appointments, its availability and scheduling can be restrictive. Riders must book rides in advance, and the service area may not encompass all desired destinations. The lack of a fixed-route bus system presents a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, disabled, and low-income residents. ADA accessibility features on the available vehicles are essential, but the overall limitations of the system remain a concern.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Marion, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be sporadic, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services unaffordable for some. This reliance on ride-sharing, though a valuable supplement, cannot be considered a reliable primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations. Several providers operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical transport with trained personnel and equipment. These services, while providing a vital link to healthcare, can be costly, and insurance coverage varies.

The socioeconomic factors within ZIP Code 24354 further influence healthcare access. Poverty rates and unemployment rates are above the national average, which can affect residents' ability to afford transportation costs, insurance premiums, and medical bills. Limited access to affordable housing and healthy food options can also exacerbate health disparities. These factors, coupled with transportation challenges, create a complex web of barriers to healthcare access, impacting the overall health score of the community.

The healthcare landscape in Marion itself is a crucial component of the overall health score. The presence of the Smyth County Community Hospital provides essential acute care services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is limited. Residents often need to travel outside of Marion to access these specialized services.

The availability of primary care physicians is also a critical factor. Adequate access to primary care providers is essential for preventative care, chronic disease management, and early detection of health problems. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased emergency room visits, and poorer health outcomes.

Furthermore, the integration of telehealth services is becoming increasingly important. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to care, particularly for those in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services in Marion, and the community’s access to reliable internet connectivity, directly impact the overall health score.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 24354 presents a mixed picture. While the presence of a local hospital and the availability of some transportation options offer a degree of healthcare access, significant challenges remain. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the socioeconomic factors within the community all contribute to barriers to healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Marion, understanding these complexities is vital. While the town offers a welcoming community and a lower cost of living compared to many urban areas, the challenges related to healthcare access must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their own healthcare needs, evaluate their transportation options, and research the availability of specific medical services.

Improvements in public transportation, increased access to ride-sharing, and the expansion of telehealth services could significantly enhance healthcare access in Marion. Addressing the socioeconomic disparities within the community, such as poverty and unemployment, is also crucial. By investing in these areas, Marion can improve its overall health score and create a healthier community for all its residents. The path to healthcare accessibility is not merely about physical distance, but about creating a system that is affordable, reliable, and responsive to the needs of the community.