24871, Pageton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 24871, Pageton, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.96 percent of residents in 24871 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Welch Community Hospital with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 24871 (Pageton, WV)

Understanding the ease of **healthcare access** is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Pageton**, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24871). This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities, considering various **transportation** options and their associated challenges. The score reflects the time, effort, and potential barriers individuals face when seeking medical care.

The Overall Health Score for 24871 is significantly influenced by its rural location and the limited availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity. Pageton, nestled in McDowell County, presents a complex landscape when it comes to accessing essential medical services. The score will be presented with a focus on the key factors impacting healthcare accessibility: drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for residents of 24871 is personal vehicles. The geographical isolation of Pageton dictates that most medical appointments require driving. The closest significant medical facilities are located in Bluefield, West Virginia, and Princeton, West Virginia.

Reaching Bluefield, approximately 20 miles away, typically involves navigating the winding roads of **WV-16** and **US-52**. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes. However, this estimate is highly susceptible to delays. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly extend travel times. Road closures due to landslides or accidents on these routes are also a frequent concern.

Princeton, located about 35 miles from Pageton, offers a broader range of medical services. The journey typically involves traveling on **US-52** and **I-77**. The drive time to Princeton can range from 45 minutes to an hour, again depending on traffic and weather. The interstate provides a more direct route, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can impact travel times.

These drive times, while seemingly manageable, become significant when considering the potential for medical emergencies or the need for frequent appointments. The time spent traveling can represent a considerable burden, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public **transportation** options in 24871 are extremely limited, severely impacting **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The McDowell County Public Transit system provides some service, but its routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not align with medical appointment times.

The transit system primarily operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can be challenging for urgent care needs. Additionally, the service area may not extend to all medical facilities in neighboring towns.

Information regarding route numbers and ADA features is difficult to ascertain, further highlighting the limited availability of public transit in this area. Without readily available information, individuals may struggle to navigate the complexities of the system, adding another layer of difficulty to accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in 24871. This absence eliminates a potentially convenient **transportation** option for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available but can be costly and require pre-arrangements. The availability of these services may also be limited, particularly during peak demand. The cost of these services can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

The primary medical transport provider in the region is McDowell County Emergency Medical Services. For non-emergency medical transport, residents might need to rely on private companies, which can vary in availability and pricing.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in 24871 is low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services create significant barriers to accessing medical care.

The drive times to the nearest medical facilities, while not excessively long, can be impacted by weather, traffic, and road conditions. The lack of alternative **transportation** options places a disproportionate burden on individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

The limited availability of public transit and the potential cost of medical **transportation** services further exacerbate the challenges. These factors can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting the health and well-being of residents.

**Implications for Moving to Pageton:**

For anyone considering **moving to Pageton**, understanding the challenges of **healthcare access** is essential. Individuals with chronic health conditions, limited mobility, or without access to a personal vehicle should carefully consider the implications of residing in this area.

Before making a move, it is crucial to assess personal **transportation** needs and explore all available options. Researching local medical providers, understanding the availability of medical **transportation** services, and planning for potential travel delays are vital steps.

The Overall Health Score serves as a reminder that **healthcare access** is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it also encompasses the ability to reach those facilities. The geographical isolation of 24871 presents unique challenges, and prospective residents must be prepared to navigate these complexities to ensure their health and well-being.