24377, Tannersville, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24377, Tannersville, Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

3.70 percent of residents in 24377 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Smyth County Community Hospital with a distance of 11.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Tannersville, Virginia (ZIP Code 24377)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Tannersville, Virginia (ZIP Code 24377), this access is heavily influenced by transportation options. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the available modes of transportation, drive times, public transit, and alternative solutions for reaching medical facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals and families **moving to Tannersville**, as understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access in Tannersville rests on the personal vehicle. The town's relative isolation and limited public transit options make driving the most prevalent method of reaching medical appointments. The primary thoroughfare connecting Tannersville to surrounding areas is **US Route 58**, a major east-west highway. This route provides access to larger towns and cities where more comprehensive healthcare services are available.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For routine primary care, residents might travel to nearby towns like Independence or Galax. A trip to Independence, via US Route 58, typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Galax, also accessible via US Route 58, may require a drive of 25-35 minutes.

For specialized care, the journey becomes more complex. The nearest hospitals offering a wider range of services are located in Wytheville and Abingdon. Reaching Wytheville, accessible via US Route 58 and then **Interstate 77**, could take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Abingdon, reached primarily via US Route 58, is a longer drive, potentially requiring a travel time of 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.

The **Overall Health Score** for transportation access in Tannersville, therefore, is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles and the distances involved. While the roads are generally well-maintained, the drive times can become a significant barrier, particularly for those with mobility limitations, chronic conditions, or limited financial resources.

Public transportation options in Tannersville are extremely limited. There is no established local bus system or readily available public transit network. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

The absence of public transit is a critical factor influencing the **Overall Health Score**. It disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. Without alternative transportation, these individuals face significant challenges in attending medical appointments, obtaining prescriptions, and accessing essential healthcare services. The lack of ADA-accessible public transit further compounds these challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region but may have limited availability in Tannersville itself. The reliance on ride-sharing can be expensive, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can add a significant financial burden, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline for some residents. Several providers in the region specialize in non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vans and stretcher services. These services are often used for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare needs.

Companies like MedTrans and First Transit are known to operate in the surrounding areas. These services can be vital for individuals who are unable to drive or cannot utilize other transportation options. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may require advance booking, which can be a challenge in urgent situations.

The **Overall Health Score** is also influenced by the availability of these alternative transportation solutions. While medical transportation services and ride-sharing offer essential support, their cost and availability can be a significant factor, especially for those with limited financial resources.

The **Overall Health Score** for Tannersville's healthcare access is also influenced by the availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code. While Tannersville itself may have limited medical services, the proximity to larger towns and cities offers access to a wider range of healthcare providers.

The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals in nearby towns and cities is a positive factor. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the drive times required to reach these facilities remain a challenge. The availability of telehealth services could potentially mitigate some of the transportation barriers, allowing residents to access healthcare remotely.

The **Overall Health Score** is a dynamic measure, and it is essential to consider the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in the region. Initiatives to expand telehealth services, increase public transportation options, and provide financial assistance for transportation costs could significantly improve the **Overall Health Score** for Tannersville residents.

For individuals **moving to Tannersville**, the **Overall Health Score** highlights the importance of careful consideration of transportation options when assessing healthcare access. While the area offers access to healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options can present challenges.

The analysis of drive times, the absence of robust public transit, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions provides a comprehensive picture of the healthcare access landscape in Tannersville. The **Overall Health Score** reflects the need for proactive measures to improve transportation options and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents.

In conclusion, the **Overall Health Score** for transportation and healthcare access in Tannersville, Virginia (24377) is moderately impacted. While residents have access to healthcare services in surrounding areas, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential costs associated with alternative transportation solutions create barriers for some. Addressing these challenges through expanded telehealth services, improved public transportation options, and financial assistance for transportation costs would significantly improve the **Overall Health Score** and enhance the well-being of the Tannersville community.