24828, Davy, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24828, Davy, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.95 percent of residents in 24828 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Welch Community Hospital with a distance of 5.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24828

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, and one crucial aspect is **healthcare access**. For residents of ZIP code 24828, nestled in the heart of Davy, West Virginia, understanding the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to medical facilities is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. This information is especially pertinent for those **moving to Davy**, seeking a comprehensive understanding of their future healthcare landscape.

The primary challenge for residents of 24828 is the rural nature of the area. This geographic isolation directly impacts healthcare accessibility. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are often located in larger towns and cities, requiring travel via various modes of **transportation**. The mountainous terrain and limited infrastructure further complicate matters, influencing the overall "Health Score."

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The most common mode of transport for medical appointments is personal vehicles. The primary roadways serving 24828 are US Route 52, a major north-south artery, and West Virginia Route 16, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to traffic, particularly during peak hours, and adverse weather conditions.

The drive time to the closest hospital, Princeton Community Hospital in Princeton, WV, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, covering roughly 35 miles. This journey involves navigating US-52 North. For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to Charleston, WV, requiring a drive of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, utilizing US-52 North, and then I-64 East.

Considering these drive times, the "Health Score" is moderately impacted. While the roads are generally passable, the distance to comprehensive medical facilities necessitates significant travel time, potentially hindering timely access to care, especially during emergencies. The potential for delays due to weather or traffic further diminishes the score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in 24828 are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive bus network. The availability of public transit significantly influences the "Health Score," particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, or those with disabilities.

There may be limited demand-response services operated by local organizations, such as the Mercer County Senior Center, which might offer transportation to medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking, have limited operating hours, and may not serve all medical facilities. The lack of readily available public transit severely impacts the "Health Score" for a significant portion of the population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have limited availability in 24828. Their presence is not guaranteed, and even if available, wait times and fares could be substantial, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of reliable ride-sharing options negatively affects the "Health Score."

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are crucial. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) may operate in the area. These services typically provide transportation for appointments, dialysis, and other medical needs. However, the availability of these services, their coverage area, and associated costs can vary. Researching local providers like MedRide or CareRide is crucial. The reliability and affordability of these services directly impact the "Health Score."

**ADA Accessibility:**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. Public transit options, if available, must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring accessible vehicles and routes. Ride-sharing services should provide options for passengers with mobility challenges. Medical **transportation** providers must offer vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices. The availability of ADA-compliant services directly influences the "Health Score."

**Medical Transport Brands:**

While specific brand names of medical transport services may vary depending on the region, the key is to research local providers. Companies like First Transit, LogistiCare, and MTM (Medical Transportation Management) often operate in rural areas, providing NEMT services. Investigating the availability of these or similar providers in 24828 is essential.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in 24828 is moderate. The primary challenges are the rural location, the distance to comprehensive medical facilities, and the limited public transit options. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long drive times, coupled with the possible limitations of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services, negatively impact the score.

The score is somewhat mitigated by the potential availability of medical transport services and the generally well-maintained road network. However, the absence of a robust public transit system and the potential for limited ride-sharing options significantly reduce the overall accessibility of healthcare.

For individuals **moving to Davy**, thorough research into local medical transport providers and an understanding of the drive times to various healthcare facilities are crucial. This information will allow them to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs and ensure they can access the care they require. The "Health Score" can be improved by advocating for expanded public transit options, encouraging the presence of ride-sharing services, and supporting the development of accessible healthcare facilities within the community.