25530, Kenova, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25530, Kenova, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.82 percent of residents in 25530 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Huntington Va Medical Center with a distance of 2.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Kenova, WV (ZIP Code 25530)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Kenova, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25530), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. We will examine the landscape of transportation options available to residents, assessing their impact on timely and convenient access to medical services. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Kenova or those already residing within its borders.

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to the ease with which its members can access necessary medical care. This access hinges significantly on the efficiency and availability of transportation. In a rural setting like Kenova, where distances to healthcare facilities may be considerable, transportation becomes a crucial determinant of overall health outcomes. This write-up aims to offer a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access within the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: Navigating the Landscape**

The primary mode of transportation for most Kenova residents is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **U.S. Route 60**, which provides a direct route to Huntington, West Virginia, a major regional healthcare hub. Traveling east on Route 60, one can reach Cabell Huntington Hospital, a large, comprehensive facility, in approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. St. Mary's Medical Center, also located in Huntington, is accessible via the same route within a similar timeframe.

Accessing healthcare facilities in Ashland, Kentucky, requires navigating **U.S. Route 52**. This route, while offering access to King's Daughters Medical Center, can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours. The drive time to Ashland typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, contingent upon traffic flow. Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the area, potentially reducing drive times for routine appointments.

Within Kenova itself, local roads like **Main Street** and **Sycamore Street** provide access to local pharmacies and smaller medical offices. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, residents often rely on the aforementioned highways to reach larger hospitals. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can impact travel times and the safety of transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Kenova are limited. The Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) provides bus service to the Huntington area. While the TTA does not directly serve Kenova with fixed routes, residents can potentially utilize the TTA system by traveling to a designated stop along **U.S. Route 60**. This option, however, adds significant time to the commute and may not be practical for individuals with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

The TTA operates buses with varying levels of accessibility, including wheelchair lifts and other accommodations for passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers can make public transit a less desirable option for many seeking healthcare access. The lack of direct routes and the potential for extended travel times represent a significant barrier to timely healthcare access for those reliant on public transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Huntington area and may be accessible to Kenova residents. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer specialized support for individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance during transport. These services, while crucial for certain populations, may be subject to availability constraints and can be costly. The availability of NEMT providers in the Kenova area is essential for ensuring healthcare access for those unable to drive or utilize public transit.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Kenova, West Virginia, is moderate. While the proximity to Huntington and Ashland offers access to comprehensive medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides supplementary options, but their reliability and affordability remain concerns.

For individuals considering moving to Kenova, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. The drive times to major hospitals are relatively manageable, but the lack of robust public transit and the potential for reliance on costly ride-sharing or medical transport services warrant careful evaluation. Residents should factor in the potential for increased travel times and expenses when planning for medical appointments.

The community would benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments, expanding public transit routes to better serve Kenova, and promoting the availability of NEMT services. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and sidewalk accessibility, would further enhance the community's overall health score.

In conclusion, while Kenova offers access to essential healthcare services, the transportation landscape presents certain obstacles. By understanding these challenges and actively pursuing solutions, the community can strive to improve healthcare access for all its residents, fostering a healthier and more vibrant environment. The ability to efficiently and affordably access healthcare is a cornerstone of a healthy community, and addressing the transportation needs of Kenova residents is crucial for improving their overall well-being.