25688, North Matewan, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25688, North Matewan, West Virginia is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

11.63 percent of residents in 25688 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Logan Regional Medical Center with a distance of 17.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 25688 (North Matewan, West Virginia)

Navigating the terrain of healthcare access in North Matewan, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25688), requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of medical facilities but also the critical element of transportation. This assessment, an 'Overall Health Score' analysis, delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare, encompassing drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This evaluation is especially pertinent for individuals contemplating moving to North Matewan, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing essential medical services.

The score, a composite of factors, reflects the ease or difficulty in reaching healthcare providers. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score signals significant transportation hurdles. The specific details of the roads, public transit, and other options are crucial to understanding the score's meaning.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in 25688 is the personal vehicle. The mountainous terrain and limited public transit options make driving the most practical, although often the most challenging, choice. Healthcare facilities are not immediately accessible within the ZIP code itself. Residents must travel to neighboring towns or cities for medical appointments.

The primary thoroughfare connecting North Matewan to larger population centers is **West Virginia Route 49**. This winding road, often with steep grades and sharp turns, is the lifeline for residents. Travel to the nearest hospitals and clinics involves navigating this route, which can be particularly treacherous during inclement weather.

Traveling to Williamson, West Virginia, approximately 10 miles away, for healthcare services, typically takes 20-30 minutes under ideal conditions. This drive involves navigating Route 49 and then connecting to **U.S. Route 119**. The condition of Route 49 is a significant factor, with potholes and narrow lanes adding to the travel time and potential safety concerns.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Huntington, West Virginia, or Pikeville, Kentucky, both approximately 60-75 miles away. This journey necessitates utilizing **U.S. Route 119** and **U.S. Route 52**, or **Kentucky Route 80**, respectively. These longer drives can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, significantly impacting healthcare access, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing medical emergencies.

The mountainous terrain and limited road infrastructure contribute to longer drive times. The unpredictable weather, including heavy rain, snow, and ice, further complicates travel. The condition of the roads, particularly Route 49, is a constant concern, adding to the overall challenge of accessing healthcare.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 25688 are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the ZIP code or providing direct routes to healthcare facilities. The lack of public transportation significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The nearest public transit options are available in Williamson, West Virginia, operated by the Mingo County Transit Authority. However, even this system has limited routes and schedules, and it does not offer direct routes to hospitals or clinics from North Matewan. The Mingo County Transit Authority has some vehicles equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, but the frequency and reach of these services are restricted.

The absence of readily available public transportation underscores the critical reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for healthcare access in 25688.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the area. Their availability is sporadic, and they may not be consistently available for transportation to healthcare appointments. The lack of consistent ride-sharing services poses a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are available, but their costs can be a significant barrier. These services, such as MedTrans, provide specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, making them inaccessible for many residents.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial lifeline for some, but the financial burden often limits their utilization. The reliance on these services highlights the gaps in healthcare access for those lacking personal vehicles or access to affordable transportation.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to North Matewan:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for commuting to healthcare in 25688 is relatively low. The score is affected by the long drive times, limited public transit, and inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for hazardous road conditions further contribute to the challenges.

For individuals considering moving to North Matewan, this assessment underscores the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. The lack of readily available transportation options necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential costs associated with medical transportation.

The availability of healthcare services in neighboring towns and cities is a critical factor. Prospective residents should research the proximity of hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The ability to secure reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, medical transport services, or assistance from family and friends, is paramount.

This analysis provides a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing healthcare in 25688. It emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options when making the decision to move to North Matewan. The overall health score reflects the complex interplay of geographic constraints, transportation infrastructure, and the availability of alternative solutions. The score is intended to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and inform the decision-making process.