25248, Kenna, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25248, Kenna, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.50 percent of residents in 25248 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson General Hospital with a distance of 13.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25248

Welcome to Kenna, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25248), a community nestled in the heart of Jackson County. Assessing the overall health score of this area requires a deep dive into a critical component: healthcare access. And a primary factor influencing that access is transportation. This write-up meticulously examines the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for residents. This information is invaluable for anyone considering moving to Kenna and prioritizing their health.

The topography of Jackson County, characterized by rolling hills and the Ohio River, significantly influences transportation dynamics. The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of Kenna are **West Virginia Route 34** and **West Virginia Route 2**. These roads, while offering scenic views, are often winding and can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, especially during the winter months. Accessing specialized healthcare often necessitates travel to larger population centers like Charleston, approximately an hour and a half away, or Parkersburg, about an hour’s drive.

Drive times are crucial in determining healthcare access. A routine doctor's appointment in Ripley, the county seat, might involve a 20-30 minute drive. However, a visit to a specialist or an emergency room visit could dramatically increase that time. Traveling to Charleston’s medical facilities, including CAMC (Charleston Area Medical Center) and Thomas Memorial Hospital, could easily consume 90 minutes or more, particularly during peak traffic hours. Similarly, reaching the hospitals in Parkersburg, such as WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, can be a significant time commitment. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to timely healthcare, especially in emergency situations.

Public transportation options in Kenna are limited. The primary public transit provider in Jackson County is the Jackson County Transit Authority. Their services are primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system, while offering a lifeline to those without personal vehicles, is not ideal for spontaneous healthcare needs. The transit authority does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service hours and the need for pre-booking can pose challenges for accessing timely medical care. The route numbers and schedules are subject to change, so prospective residents should confirm the most current information.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while expanding their reach, may have limited availability in rural areas like Kenna. The presence of these services is not guaranteed, and wait times could be extended, especially during off-peak hours. This reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare transportation is, therefore, not always reliable. The potential for surge pricing during periods of high demand could also add to the financial burden of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Call Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often utilized for appointments, dialysis treatments, and other scheduled medical visits. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be subject to availability, particularly for last-minute requests. Costs for medical transportation can vary depending on distance and the level of care required, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The overall health score for Kenna, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderate. While local healthcare providers exist, accessing specialized care and emergency services often necessitates travel to larger cities. The limited public transit options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the pre-booking requirements of medical transport services present challenges. The winding roads and potential for weather-related delays further complicate the transportation landscape.

For individuals considering moving to Kenna, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the travel times and potential costs associated with accessing healthcare.

Residents of Kenna should advocate for improvements in healthcare access. This could involve supporting initiatives to expand public transit services, encouraging the presence of ride-sharing services, and advocating for the expansion of local healthcare facilities. Furthermore, community efforts to promote carpooling or establish volunteer driver programs could help bridge the transportation gap for those in need.

In conclusion, while Kenna offers a peaceful and scenic environment, its healthcare access is significantly influenced by transportation challenges. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when making their decision. Understanding the limitations and proactively planning for healthcare transportation needs is essential for maintaining a good quality of life in this charming West Virginia community. The success of healthcare access in Kenna hinges on a multi-faceted approach, including individual planning, community advocacy, and potential improvements to the existing transportation infrastructure.