The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24361, Meadowview, Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
65.35 percent of residents in 24361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Smyth County Community Hospital with a distance of 20.62 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 24361, Meadowview, Virginia
Overall Health Score | 17 |
---|---|
People Score | 14 |
Provider Score | 56 |
Hospital Score | 28 |
Travel Score | 41 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 24361 | Meadowview | Virginia |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.45 | 0.45 | 2.76 |
1 Car | 9.25 | 9.25 | 18.70 |
2 Cars | 34.72 | 34.72 | 40.01 |
3 or More Cars | 55.58 | 55.58 | 38.53 |
Vehicular Access in 24361, Meadowview, Virginia
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24361 (Meadowview, VA)
The health and well-being of a community are intrinsically linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 24361, Meadowview, Virginia, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare accessibility through various transportation options. Understanding the challenges and opportunities within this area is vital for residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers aiming to improve community health outcomes. This exploration considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape.
The geographic reality of Meadowview significantly shapes healthcare access. Situated in rural Southwest Virginia, the area is characterized by rolling hills and dispersed populations, factors that directly impact transportation options. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in the neighboring towns of Abingdon and Marion, necessitating travel along primary roadways. This distance presents a fundamental challenge: the further one must travel for care, the greater the potential barriers to receiving it.
**Drive Time Analysis:**
Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for healthcare access in Meadowview. The primary arteries connecting the community to medical facilities are crucial for understanding the overall health score. The most direct route to Bristol Regional Medical Center in Bristol, TN, involves traveling east on **US-19** and then transitioning onto **I-81 South**. Expect a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route offers relatively smooth travel, but potential delays can occur due to accidents or construction.
For residents seeking care at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, the journey involves traveling west on **US-19**. The drive time to Abingdon is typically around 20-30 minutes. This is the closest major hospital, offering a wider range of services. However, the proximity does not necessarily equate to ease of access. Factors such as traffic, particularly during peak hours, can influence the overall travel experience.
Accessing the Smyth County Community Hospital in Marion requires traveling south on **US-11** and then transitioning onto **I-81 North**. The drive time is approximately 30-40 minutes. The route is generally straightforward, but potential congestion around Marion can impact travel times. These drive times represent a significant time commitment, especially for those requiring frequent medical appointments or experiencing urgent health issues.
**Public Transportation Assessment:**
Public transportation options within ZIP Code 24361 are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the **Southwest Virginia Transit Management Company (SWVTM)**. However, their routes and services within the immediate Meadowview area are minimal. Residents may need to travel to a nearby town, such as Abingdon, to access a bus route.
The availability of public transit directly impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations. The lack of readily available public transportation creates a barrier to care for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of consistent and reliable public transit highlights the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.
The SWVTM bus routes often lack ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features. This deficiency further restricts access for individuals with mobility impairments. The absence of accessible public transportation exacerbates the challenges faced by those already experiencing health vulnerabilities. The lack of accessible options underscores the need for a more inclusive and accommodating transportation infrastructure.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like Meadowview can be inconsistent. While ride-sharing may be available, the response times and fares can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access is not always a reliable solution.
Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients requiring transportation to medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including **MedTrans Corporation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for patients who cannot drive themselves but do not require an ambulance.
The cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. While some insurance plans may cover NEMT services, the out-of-pocket expenses can be substantial, particularly for frequent appointments. The financial burden of medical transportation can exacerbate existing health disparities.
**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**
The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 24361 is moderately low. While the area benefits from its proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services create significant barriers.
For those **moving to Meadowview**, the health score is a significant factor. The lack of readily available public transportation necessitates careful consideration of personal transportation needs. Individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not drive should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare.
To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are crucial. First, expanding public transportation routes and services, including increased frequency and ADA-compliant features, is essential. Second, incentivizing ride-sharing services to operate more consistently in the area can improve access. Third, exploring partnerships between healthcare providers and medical transport companies to offer subsidized transportation options for low-income patients can alleviate financial burdens.
Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for follow-up care or consultations. Finally, community outreach programs to educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources are vital. These steps will not only improve the health score but also contribute to a healthier and more accessible community for all residents of Meadowview. The focus on improving **healthcare access** and **transportation** is essential for the well-being of the community.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like