24382, Wytheville, Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24382, Wytheville, Virginia is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.85 percent of residents in 24382 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wythe County Community Hospital with a distance of 0.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24382 (Wytheville, VA)

This report analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 24382 (Wytheville, Virginia), providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, crucial factors influencing healthcare access. Residents considering **moving to Wytheville** will find this information invaluable.

Wytheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relatively rural setting impacts transportation, making efficient and reliable transit options essential for maintaining good health.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Cornerstone of Access**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Wytheville is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Drive times significantly dictate healthcare access, influencing appointment adherence and overall well-being.

Wytheville Community Hospital, a central healthcare provider, serves as a critical point of reference. From various points within the ZIP code, drive times to the hospital are relatively short, generally under 15 minutes for those residing in town. However, residents in more remote areas, particularly those residing along **US-11** or further out on **I-77**, may experience longer travel times.

Specialist care often necessitates travel outside Wytheville. Roanoke, approximately 75 miles east, offers a broader range of medical specialists and facilities. The primary route to Roanoke is via **I-81** and **US-220**, with drive times typically ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Longer travel times can create barriers to care, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Drive times to larger cities like Bristol, TN, are also factors. Access to healthcare in these areas is generally easier than to Roanoke, but the distances are still significant.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, but Growing Potential**

Public transportation in Wytheville is limited but evolving. The **Wytheville Area Transit System (WATS)** provides a crucial service, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the system's routes and frequency are limited, impacting healthcare access.

WATS primarily operates within the town limits, making access to the hospital and local clinics relatively straightforward. The system's routes are designed to serve the most populated areas, but the service area is limited. The lack of service to more rural areas within the ZIP code can create a significant barrier for residents seeking healthcare.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. WATS vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose challenges for those with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer alternative transportation options, particularly for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, ride-sharing availability in Wytheville is variable. While services are generally available, wait times and pricing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in more remote locations.

Medical transportation services play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with specific needs. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for appointments.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Medicaid Transportation**
* **Wythe County Transportation**

These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations, those requiring specialized equipment, or those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 24382 is a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. It reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare services based on transportation options.

**Scoring Methodology:**

* **Drive Time:** The primary factor, weighted based on distance and traffic. Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Public Transit:** Weighted based on route coverage, frequency, and ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Weighted based on availability, pricing, and reliability.
* **Medical Transport:** Weighted based on availability, cost, and specialized services.

**The Score:**

Considering the factors, the "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 24382 is **moderate**. While the proximity to Wytheville Community Hospital provides convenient access for many residents, limitations in public transit, ride-sharing, and the need for travel to specialist care in Roanoke or Bristol, TN, reduce the overall score.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Expanding WATS routes and increasing service frequency would significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for residents in underserved areas.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Initiatives to increase ride-sharing availability and affordability would benefit those without personal vehicles.
* **Improve Medical Transport Coordination:** Streamlining medical transport services and ensuring their affordability would be crucial for individuals with specific needs.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** Encouraging the use of telehealth services could reduce the need for travel, especially for routine appointments and follow-up care.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Wytheville**

Access to healthcare in Wytheville presents a mixed bag. While the town's central hospital provides accessible care for many, the limited transportation options create challenges. Residents considering **moving to Wytheville** should carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential impact on healthcare access. Continued efforts to improve public transit, promote ride-sharing, and enhance medical transport services will be crucial for ensuring that all residents of ZIP Code 24382 have equitable access to the healthcare they need.