25245, Given, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25245, Given, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.55 percent of residents in 25245 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson General Hospital with a distance of 8.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25245

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 25245 requires a deep dive into their access to healthcare, considering the crucial role of transportation. This analysis examines the available modes of transport, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, evaluating their efficiency, accessibility, and impact on healthcare access. The aim is to paint a comprehensive picture, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their well-being and the feasibility of living within this area, especially when considering the practicalities of **healthcare access**.

The primary challenge for residents of 25245 lies in its relative isolation. Situated in a rural area, the community faces significant hurdles in accessing medical facilities. The availability of diverse and reliable **transportation** options is, therefore, a critical determinant of the overall health score. The ability to reach essential healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, emergency rooms, and pharmacies, directly influences the health and well-being of the population.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The road network, while present, presents its own set of challenges. The major thoroughfare connecting 25245 to neighboring towns and cities is primarily State Route 10, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. The journey to the nearest major hospital, located in the city of Given, necessitates a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

The drive to Given, the closest hub for specialized medical services, is a significant consideration. The route along State Route 10 can be particularly stressful during inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow, which is common in this region. Furthermore, the lack of readily available alternative routes exacerbates the potential for delays and increased travel times. Other roads, such as County Route 20 and local roads, offer alternative routes, but they are often narrower, less well-maintained, and may add to the overall travel time.

The condition of these roads is also a factor. Potholes and uneven surfaces can pose a risk to vehicles, potentially leading to breakdowns and further delaying access to healthcare. The distance to Given, combined with the potential for traffic and road conditions, contributes to a moderate level of difficulty in accessing healthcare via personal vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in 25245 are extremely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive bus system or other forms of public transportation that would facilitate access to healthcare facilities. This scarcity places a significant burden on residents who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. The absence of reliable public transit severely restricts their **healthcare access**.

The nearest public transportation options are located in Given, which is a considerable distance away. This requires residents to find alternative means of getting to the city, such as relying on friends, family, or ride-sharing services. The lack of public transit also impacts the elderly and disabled populations, who may face significant challenges in accessing medical appointments and other essential healthcare services.

The absence of public transit also limits the ability of residents to reach other essential services, such as pharmacies and grocery stores, which can further compound the challenges of maintaining good health. The lack of accessible public transit is a substantial negative factor in the overall health score for this ZIP code.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, but their availability in 25245 is likely limited. The rural nature of the area may result in fewer drivers and longer wait times, making it less reliable for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. However, the availability of these services may be limited, and the costs can be significant. The coordination of medical transport can also be complex, requiring advance planning and scheduling.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services adds an additional layer of complexity and cost to accessing healthcare. While they offer a valuable service, their limitations in terms of availability, cost, and reliability contribute to a lower overall health score.

**The Impact on Health and Well-being**

The challenges in accessing healthcare in 25245 have a direct impact on the health and well-being of its residents. The difficulties in reaching medical facilities can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. This, in turn, can result in poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

The lack of convenient and affordable transportation options can also contribute to social isolation and a reduced quality of life. The inability to easily access healthcare and other essential services can create a sense of vulnerability and dependence. The overall health score is directly impacted by the accessibility of healthcare.

**Moving to Given: A Consideration**

For residents of 25245, the practicalities of **moving to Given** are worth considering. The city offers a wider range of healthcare services, including hospitals, specialists, and pharmacies. While the cost of living may be higher, the improved access to healthcare could significantly enhance their overall health and well-being. The proximity to these services would eliminate the transportation challenges associated with living in 25245.

The decision to move to Given should be carefully weighed against the potential benefits of improved healthcare access. The availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport in Given would significantly improve the overall health score for residents.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for residents of 25245 is negatively impacted by the limited **transportation** options available. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The drive-times to Given and the potential for delays due to traffic and road conditions further exacerbate these challenges.

The impact on health and well-being is significant, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes. The lack of accessible healthcare can also contribute to social isolation and a reduced quality of life.

The decision to move to Given, with its improved healthcare access, is a viable option to consider. The proximity to a wider range of medical services, along with the availability of public transit and other **transportation** options, would significantly enhance the overall health score for residents. The overall health score for this ZIP code is considerably affected by its isolation and lack of readily available **healthcare access**.