25103, Hansford, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25103, Hansford, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 25103 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Montgomery General Hospital, Inc with a distance of 4.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25103

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 25103, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access through available transportation options. Understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities is paramount in evaluating the overall well-being of a community. This analysis examines the drive times, public transit routes, ride-share services, and medical transport options available, providing a comprehensive picture for current and prospective residents, especially those considering **moving to Hansford**.

The primary concern in 25103, a rural area, is the relative isolation and the resulting challenges in accessing healthcare. This isolation directly impacts the **healthcare access** score, making transportation a crucial factor in determining the overall health of the community. The following sections delve into the specifics of each transportation mode, painting a detailed picture of the realities faced by residents seeking medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The backbone of transportation in 25103 relies heavily on personal vehicles. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities in surrounding towns involve navigating a network of highways and rural roads. The primary thoroughfare is **West Virginia Route 14 (WV-14)**, which runs north-south, providing a crucial link to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized medical services are located.

Driving times vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. To reach the nearest hospital, **Summers County Hospital** in Hinton, residents typically face a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, traveling south on WV-14. This estimate assumes favorable road conditions and minimal traffic.

Other destinations, such as medical specialists or larger hospitals in Charleston, require longer drives. The journey to Charleston typically involves traveling on WV-14 to **Interstate 64 (I-64)**, then heading east. This trip can easily exceed two hours, making it a significant commitment for routine appointments or emergency situations.

Road conditions in 25103 can be challenging, particularly during inclement weather. Winter storms can render roads impassable, further isolating residents and impeding access to healthcare. The maintenance of these roads, especially during the winter months, is a critical factor influencing the **transportation** reliability and the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in 25103 are limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area. There is no dedicated public bus service within the immediate ZIP code. Residents must rely on alternative arrangements, such as informal carpooling or seeking assistance from family and friends.

The nearest public transit options are located in larger towns, such as Charleston, requiring significant travel time to reach the service's point of origin. These services typically operate on fixed routes and schedules, making them less flexible and less accessible for residents in 25103.

The lack of robust public transit infrastructure poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of accessible public transportation, including features like ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, further exacerbates the challenges faced by these vulnerable populations.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities within reasonable driving distance of 25103. However, their availability in the immediate area is limited. The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for longer trips to medical facilities.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their travel. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services.

Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and **CareRide** may offer NEMT services, providing transportation to and from medical appointments for eligible individuals. These services often require prior scheduling and may have limitations on the distance or type of medical facility they can serve.

Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, but their response times can be affected by the distance to the nearest hospital and road conditions. The availability and efficiency of medical transport services are crucial for ensuring timely access to emergency care.

**Overall Health Score and Implications for Moving to Hansford:**

The overall health score for residents of 25103 is significantly impacted by the challenges in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for long drive times contribute to a lower score. The lack of convenient and affordable **transportation** options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially impacting the health outcomes of the community.

For individuals **moving to Hansford**, it is crucial to carefully consider the transportation challenges and their potential impact on healthcare access. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, consider the availability of personal vehicles, and explore the options for ride-share and medical transport services.

The overall health score is also influenced by factors beyond transportation, such as the availability of local healthcare providers, the presence of community health programs, and the socioeconomic status of the residents. Addressing the transportation challenges is a critical step in improving the overall health and well-being of the community in 25103.

Improving **healthcare access** requires a multifaceted approach. This includes advocating for increased public transit options, supporting the expansion of ride-share services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services. Investing in road maintenance and infrastructure improvements can also significantly reduce travel times and improve the reliability of transportation options.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding access to remote healthcare consultations can help mitigate the challenges of long distances and limited transportation options. By addressing these challenges, the community can create a healthier and more accessible environment for all residents.

The health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic reflection of the community's ability to meet the healthcare needs of its residents. By prioritizing the improvement of **transportation** options and addressing the broader determinants of health, the community can improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for all. This makes the decision to **move to Hansford** a thoughtful consideration, weighing the benefits of rural living against the practicalities of accessing essential services.