25755, Huntington, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25755, Huntington, West Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.70 percent of residents in 25755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cabell Huntington Hospital, Inc with a distance of 1.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25755

This comprehensive assessment evaluates the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 25755, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities is paramount to their overall health and well-being. This report considers various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a detailed picture of healthcare access in this Huntington, West Virginia area.

The foundation of healthcare access in 25755, a primarily residential area, often begins with the personal vehicle. Residents typically rely on their cars for daily errands, including medical appointments. Key roadways influencing healthcare access include Interstate 64 (I-64), a major east-west artery, and US Route 60, a significant local thoroughfare. Access to I-64 is readily available, offering relatively efficient travel to medical centers located further afield. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, especially when navigating to and from hospitals and clinics.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from 25755 vary depending on the destination and time of day. Cabell Huntington Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 10-15 minute drive via US-60 and 16th Street Road, assuming moderate traffic. St. Mary's Medical Center, another prominent healthcare provider, is roughly a 15-20 minute drive, also primarily utilizing US-60 and surrounding city streets. Smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout Huntington may offer shorter commute times, but these can be offset by the need for multiple appointments or referrals.

Public transportation, while available, presents some challenges. The Huntington Area Rapid Transit (HART) system serves the area, providing bus routes that connect 25755 to various parts of the city, including healthcare facilities. However, frequency and route coverage can be limiting factors. Route 1, for instance, might offer a direct connection to a hospital, but the wait times between buses and the total travel time could be considerably longer than driving.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities must be carefully considered. HART strives to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating. However, the physical limitations of bus stops, such as the presence of curbs or lack of shelters, and the potential for overcrowding can still present obstacles for some. The availability of real-time tracking information and clear route maps is also crucial for efficient use of public transportation, especially for those unfamiliar with the system or facing cognitive challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The availability of these services in 25755 is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent medical needs. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further exacerbate the financial burden.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are also available in the area. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like MedStar and others offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), providing door-to-door service and assistance with boarding and disembarking. These services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot utilize other transportation options, but they often require advance booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The location of 25755, near Huntington, offers some advantages regarding healthcare access. The city's concentration of medical facilities, including hospitals, specialty clinics, and primary care physicians, provides residents with a range of choices. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create potential challenges for some residents. The cost of ride-sharing and the availability of medical transportation services can also be significant factors in determining healthcare access.

Moving to Huntington, or residing in 25755, necessitates a careful consideration of transportation options. Those reliant on public transit should familiarize themselves with HART routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features. Individuals without personal vehicles should explore ride-sharing options and assess their financial implications. Those with mobility limitations should investigate medical transportation services and their insurance coverage.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 25755 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Huntington's medical facilities is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but cost and accessibility remain important considerations. A proactive approach to understanding and utilizing available transportation resources is crucial for ensuring that residents of 25755 can effectively access the healthcare they need.