24827, Cyclone, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24827, Cyclone, West Virginia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.65 percent of residents in 24827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Logan Regional Medical Center with a distance of 18.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24827

Cyclone, West Virginia, nestled within the 24827 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when assessing overall health. A critical component of well-being, healthcare access, is significantly impacted by the available transportation options. This write-up delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare facilities from Cyclone, examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, culminating in an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the accessibility landscape.

The very geography of Cyclone shapes the healthcare access equation. The town is situated within McDowell County, a region characterized by mountainous terrain and a relatively sparse population. This geographical reality directly influences transportation infrastructure, impacting the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. The primary roads serving the area, such as US Route 52 and West Virginia Route 16, are the lifelines connecting Cyclone to healthcare providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from Cyclone are a crucial factor. The nearest hospitals and clinics are often located in neighboring towns, requiring travel along winding roads. For instance, a trip to Welch Community Hospital, a major healthcare provider, necessitates a drive along US Route 52, a journey that can take approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Similarly, accessing the Tug Valley ARH Regional Medical Center in South Williamson, Kentucky, involves a longer drive, potentially exceeding an hour, utilizing US Route 52 and US Route 119.

The condition of these roadways is another variable. Maintenance and repair schedules can influence travel times, particularly during inclement weather. Snow, ice, and landslides are common in this mountainous region, which can lead to road closures or delays, further complicating healthcare access. The absence of major highways and the reliance on smaller, often less well-maintained roads, contributes to the overall challenges.

Public transportation options within the 24827 ZIP code are limited. The primary mode of public transit is the McDowell County Public Transportation Authority (MCPTA). However, the MCPTA's routes and schedules may not directly serve all healthcare facilities or offer convenient connections. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses and services is a vital consideration for individuals with disabilities. While the MCPTA strives to provide accessible transportation, the frequency and coverage of routes might not fully meet the needs of all residents, especially those requiring specialized medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Cyclone or the surrounding areas. This absence presents a significant barrier for residents who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. The lack of ride-sharing options exacerbates the reliance on personal vehicles or, in their absence, the need to rely on friends, family, or community resources for transportation.

Medical transport services play a critical role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services. These services are essential for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transportation to appointments. However, the cost of these services and the potential for delays due to distance and demand can pose additional challenges.

The availability of healthcare providers within the 24827 ZIP code itself is also a factor. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals within the community reduces the need for extensive travel. However, the rural nature of the area may lead to a scarcity of providers, forcing residents to seek care outside of Cyclone. This scarcity, coupled with the transportation challenges, can create a significant burden on residents seeking healthcare.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in the 24827 ZIP code is impacted by the limited transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of readily available ride-sharing services, and the constraints of public transit create significant barriers. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, their cost and potential delays must be considered. The distance to healthcare facilities, the condition of the roads, and the availability of healthcare providers within the community all contribute to the overall picture.

Considering all these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in the 24827 ZIP code is a moderate score. While residents can reach healthcare facilities, the journey is often time-consuming, potentially expensive, and subject to various challenges. Improving public transportation, expanding ride-sharing options, and attracting more healthcare providers to the area are critical steps towards enhancing healthcare access and, consequently, improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of Cyclone. The community's ability to address these transportation and healthcare access gaps will directly influence the quality of life for its residents.