25083, Gallagher, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25083, Gallagher, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.41 percent of residents in 25083 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Montgomery General Hospital, Inc with a distance of 6.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25083

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 25083 necessitates a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the transportation infrastructure that connects individuals to vital medical services. This assessment considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities in accessing care within this specific geographic area.

ZIP code 25083, encompassing the community of Gallagher, West Virginia, is predominantly rural. The physical geography, characterized by mountainous terrain and dispersed populations, significantly influences transportation realities. This, in turn, shapes the ability of residents to reach healthcare providers, impacting their overall health and well-being. The existing transportation network, therefore, becomes a critical factor in determining the overall health score.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. Access to healthcare facilities relies heavily on navigating the roadways. Driving times are a crucial metric. The nearest hospital, Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) General Hospital, is approximately 50 miles away, a drive that could take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic and road conditions. The primary route is likely to be via US Route 119 South, a two-lane highway, which can be subject to congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Alternatively, residents might opt to travel on West Virginia Route 10, a winding road that offers scenic views but can add to travel time due to its narrow lanes and slower speed limits. Local roads, such as County Route 3/1 and County Route 3/2, provide access to smaller communities but are often poorly maintained and may not be suitable for all vehicles, especially during inclement weather. The condition of these roads can significantly impact commute times and the safety of those traveling to healthcare appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (KRT) does not currently service the immediate area of ZIP code 25083, leaving residents with minimal public transit options. This lack of readily available public transportation presents a significant barrier to accessing healthcare for many residents.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates a reliance on alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Charleston area, but their presence in Gallagher is uncertain. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services are crucial factors. The availability of ride-sharing services in rural areas often depends on driver density and demand.

Medical transportation services are designed to address the specific needs of individuals requiring assistance getting to medical appointments. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often accommodating wheelchairs and other mobility aids. These services are essential for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive themselves.

The cost of medical transportation, including ride-sharing and specialized services, can be a significant financial burden, especially for low-income residents. The cost of transportation can quickly accumulate, particularly for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent medical appointments. This cost factor can directly impact healthcare access and contribute to health disparities.

The overall health score for ZIP code 25083 is therefore significantly impacted by the challenges in accessing healthcare. The long drive times, limited public transportation, and potential lack of ride-sharing services create barriers to care. The availability and affordability of medical transportation services are critical mitigating factors.

For individuals considering moving to Gallagher, a thorough evaluation of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess the availability of transportation options and consider the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The remoteness of the area and the limited transportation infrastructure present challenges that must be carefully considered.

The healthcare landscape in Gallagher and the surrounding areas is constantly evolving. New healthcare providers, expanded services, and improvements in transportation infrastructure can positively impact the overall health score. Initiatives to improve road conditions, expand public transportation options, and increase the availability of ride-sharing services can significantly enhance healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 25083.

The overall health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that reflects the interplay of various factors. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of these factors are essential to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that residents of ZIP code 25083 have equitable access to healthcare. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical component of that access.