25108, Hewett, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25108, Hewett, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.06 percent of residents in 25108 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Boone Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25108

ZIP Code 25108, encompassing the community of Hewett, West Virginia, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. A critical component of overall health, the ability to reach medical services promptly and efficiently, is significantly impacted by the local transportation infrastructure. This write-up assesses the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Hewett, focusing on the ease and efficiency of commuting to healthcare facilities. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare access landscape.

The geographical reality of Hewett, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, shapes the transportation landscape. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **West Virginia Route 10**, a vital north-south corridor, and **West Virginia Route 17**, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads, while offering scenic views, are often winding and can be subject to delays due to inclement weather, particularly during the winter months. The drive times to healthcare facilities, therefore, are significantly influenced by these factors.

For residents of Hewett, the closest significant healthcare facilities are located in the neighboring towns of Madison and Logan. The drive to **Logan Regional Medical Center**, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes via **West Virginia Route 10**. The journey to **Madison** and the **Boone Memorial Hospital** is a shorter trip, usually around 20 to 30 minutes, also primarily utilizing **West Virginia Route 10**. These estimates are based on ideal conditions and don't account for traffic, which can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or due to accidents.

Public transportation options in the region are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Logan County Transit Authority** operates a public bus service, but its routes and schedules are not always conducive to timely healthcare access. While the routes may serve some areas of the county, they may not directly serve Hewett or provide convenient connections to medical facilities. The availability of wheelchair-accessible buses, a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities, should be carefully considered when evaluating the public transit options. Information about ADA features and route numbers is crucial for assessing the practicality of this transportation mode.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in more rural areas like Hewett. The wait times for a ride can be prolonged, and the cost can be a significant barrier for some residents. The reliability of these services, especially during emergencies or in adverse weather conditions, is a critical consideration when evaluating their role in healthcare access. This makes planning a move to Hewett a careful consideration.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to provide transportation to medical appointments, offer an alternative for those who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. Companies like **MedRide** and **First Medical Transportation** often operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be booked in advance, ensuring a scheduled ride to and from medical appointments. However, their availability may be limited, and their costs can add to the financial burden of healthcare access.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 25108 is moderately concerning. While the presence of major healthcare facilities in neighboring towns provides access to essential medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The winding roads and potential for delays due to weather further complicate the situation.

The challenges of **transportation** in this area are compounded by the demographics of the region. A significant portion of the population may be elderly, low-income, or have disabilities, making access to healthcare even more critical and difficult. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially exacerbating existing health conditions and impacting overall well-being.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. Enhancing the public transportation network by expanding routes, increasing frequency, and ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities is crucial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could also help. Furthermore, investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and upgrades, would reduce travel times and improve safety.

Education and outreach programs are also essential. Informing residents about available transportation options, including medical transport services, and assisting them with accessing these resources can empower them to take control of their healthcare journey. The promotion of telehealth services, which allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can also mitigate the challenges of transportation.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Hewett is not without its strengths. The presence of nearby hospitals and medical centers provides a solid foundation for healthcare delivery. However, the limitations in transportation infrastructure and services require careful consideration. The "Overall Health Score" is directly impacted by the ease and efficiency with which residents can access medical care.

The decision to consider **moving to Hewett** should be made with a full understanding of the transportation challenges and the available resources for healthcare access. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, consider the availability of personal vehicles, and research the public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. Understanding the potential delays and costs associated with commuting to healthcare facilities is crucial for making an informed decision.

In conclusion, while Hewett offers a close-knit community and natural beauty, the limitations in transportation infrastructure present a significant hurdle to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments, expanded services, and community outreach is crucial to improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have timely and convenient access to the medical care they need. The future health of Hewett hinges on the ability to overcome these transportation barriers and create a healthcare system that is truly accessible to all.