25812, Ansted, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25812, Ansted, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.93 percent of residents in 25812 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Plateau Medical Center with a distance of 11.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 25812 (Ansted, West Virginia)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Ansted, West Virginia (ZIP code 25812) requires a deep dive into the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access. This rural community, nestled within the mountainous terrain of Fayette County, faces unique challenges in navigating the healthcare landscape. This analysis considers the primary modes of transportation available, the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and alternative options like ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The very fabric of healthcare access is woven with the threads of transportation. In Ansted, the primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The rugged topography and dispersed population make public transit a less viable option. This reliance on personal vehicles, however, introduces vulnerabilities, particularly for those without a car, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial element in determining the overall health score. The nearest hospital, Plateau Medical Center, is located in Oak Hill, approximately 15 miles away. This drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The primary route to Oak Hill is via US Route 19, a major artery connecting the region. Other options include using secondary roads like WV Route 39, which offers a more scenic but potentially slower route.

For specialized care, residents often need to travel further. Charleston, the state capital, offers a wider array of medical specialists and hospitals, including CAMC (Charleston Area Medical Center). The drive to Charleston is approximately 60-75 miles, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours via US Route 19 and Interstate 64. This longer commute significantly impacts the timely access to specialized medical care, especially during emergencies.

Public transit options in Ansted and the surrounding areas are limited. The Fayette County Transit Authority (FCTA) provides some bus services, but the routes are infrequent and primarily serve the more populated areas of the county. The FCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited scope of the routes and schedules makes it challenging for residents of Ansted to rely on public transit for their healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in more urban environments. The availability of drivers can fluctuate, and the cost of a ride can be a significant barrier, especially for longer distances. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for routine healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services offer a lifeline for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services are crucial for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, but they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The overall health score for Ansted residents is therefore negatively impacted by the challenges in transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times to specialized care, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score.

Moving to Ansted involves understanding these realities. Prospective residents must consider their transportation needs and the potential impact on their healthcare access. Those without reliable transportation may face significant challenges in attending medical appointments, accessing emergency care, and managing chronic health conditions.

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is also a critical factor. While Plateau Medical Center in Oak Hill provides essential services, the need to travel to Charleston for specialized care can be a significant burden. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential healthcare needs when choosing to reside in Ansted.

The absence of readily available public transit, coupled with the limitations of ride-sharing services, further complicates healthcare access. This leaves many residents reliant on personal vehicles or medical transport services, which can be costly and require advance planning.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Ansted, West Virginia (ZIP code 25812) is moderate, influenced by the challenges in transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times to specialized care, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. Residents must carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential impact on their healthcare access when living in or moving to Ansted. A concerted effort to improve public transit, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, and expand access to medical transport could significantly improve the overall health score for this rural community.