25672, Edgarton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25672, Edgarton, West Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 25672 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Logan Regional Medical Center with a distance of 19.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25672 (Edgarton, West Virginia)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 25672, encompassing the town of Edgarton, West Virginia, is significantly impacted by the challenges inherent in **transportation** to and from **healthcare access** points. This score reflects a complex interplay of factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transport services. Given the rural nature of the region, and the lack of readily available resources, the score is likely to be lower than in more urban settings. This analysis provides a granular understanding of the barriers faced by residents seeking essential medical care.

Edgarton, nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique set of geographical obstacles. The rugged terrain dictates winding roads and considerable distances to reach healthcare facilities. This isolation directly impacts the health and well-being of the community. Prospective residents, especially those considering **moving to Edgarton**, should carefully consider these **healthcare access** limitations when evaluating their overall quality of life.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Edgarton are the WV-10 and the WV-44. These routes, while scenic, are often narrow and winding, making for slower travel times. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in larger towns such as Williamson (approximately 25 miles) and Logan (approximately 40 miles). Driving to Williamson, via WV-10, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Logan, accessible primarily via WV-44, typically requires a drive of 45 minutes to an hour and a half.

These estimations assume ideal conditions. During inclement weather, such as heavy rain, snow, or ice, drive times can easily double or even triple. The mountainous terrain also presents challenges in terms of road maintenance, potentially leading to delays and increased risks. Emergency situations can be particularly challenging, as the response time for ambulances or other emergency vehicles is directly affected by these extended travel times.

**Public Transit: A Scarce Resource:**

Public transit options within ZIP Code 25672 are extremely limited. The Mingo County Public Transit Authority might offer some routes, but their service area is generally focused on more populated areas and might not extend directly into Edgarton or offer frequent service. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is scarce. Even if available, public transit may not be a practical option for many residents due to infrequent service, lengthy travel times, and the need for transfers.

The lack of reliable public transit exacerbates the **healthcare access** challenges, especially for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of accessible public transit further isolates vulnerable populations, hindering their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the overall health score for the community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have limited or no presence in Edgarton. Their availability is often dependent on the demand and the proximity to larger population centers. This lack of ride-sharing options further restricts **transportation** choices for residents.

Medical transport services are available, but their accessibility and cost can be significant barriers. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, but their primary function is to provide immediate medical care and transport to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services, which provide transportation for appointments and other medical needs, may be available through private companies or Medicaid programs. However, the availability of NEMT services can vary, and they may require advance booking and have limited service areas.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands may service the area, including:

* **Appalachian Ambulance Service:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transport.
* **Medicaid-approved NEMT providers:** Several local and regional providers may offer services.

**The Impact on Overall Health:**

The combination of long drive times, limited public transit, and potentially scarce ride-sharing and medical transport options creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for residents of Edgarton. This lack of easy **transportation** options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, reduced preventative care, and poorer health outcomes. Individuals with chronic conditions, those requiring frequent medical attention, and those with limited mobility are particularly vulnerable.

The overall health score for the area is directly influenced by these **transportation** limitations. It is crucial to recognize that the challenges extend beyond the physical distance to healthcare facilities. They encompass the financial burden of vehicle ownership and maintenance, the potential for lost wages due to travel time, and the stress and anxiety associated with navigating difficult roads and limited options.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Addressing the **healthcare access** challenges in Edgarton requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing the availability of public transit, even if on a limited schedule, could provide a lifeline for many residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Expanding the availability and awareness of NEMT services, including education on eligibility and enrollment, is critical.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services, where possible, could help bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers. This can reduce the need for in-person visits and improve access to care, particularly for those living in remote areas.

For individuals considering **moving to Edgarton**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and access to healthcare is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of reliable vehicles, and the potential for accessing public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport services. Understanding the limitations of **healthcare access** in the area is crucial for making an informed decision about their health and well-being.