25848, Glen Rogers, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 25848, Glen Rogers, West Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.44 percent of residents in 25848 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Raleigh General Hospital with a distance of 13.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Glen Rogers, WV (ZIP Code 25848)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Glen Rogers, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25848), requires a deep dive into their access to healthcare. This analysis considers the multifaceted challenges of transportation, a critical determinant of health outcomes, particularly in rural communities. The geographical isolation of Glen Rogers, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, significantly impacts healthcare access, making transportation a pivotal factor in determining the overall health score.

The fundamental challenge lies in the limited availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel. This immediately introduces transportation as a significant barrier. The health score is directly affected by the efficiency, affordability, and accessibility of transportation options.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is likely personal vehicles. The road network, however, presents significant hurdles. The primary thoroughfare, **West Virginia Route 10**, provides the main artery connecting Glen Rogers to larger towns. However, this route is often characterized by winding roads, steep grades, and potential hazards, especially during inclement weather.

Driving to Beckley, the largest city in the region, and the location of **Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital**, requires navigating **WV-10** and then connecting to **US-19** or **I-64**. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. However, traffic, road conditions, and the mountainous terrain can significantly extend this time, potentially impacting the timely receipt of medical care.

Further complicating matters, the availability of public transportation is severely limited. The Raleigh County Transit Authority (RCTA) operates a bus service in the Beckley area, but its routes and frequency are restricted. The RCTA does not directly serve Glen Rogers. This lack of public transportation options places a heavy reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

For individuals without access to a personal vehicle, the options are severely restricted. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Beckley area, but their presence in Glen Rogers is sporadic and availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several companies operate in the region, including **Ambulette Services** and **MedStar Ambulance Service**. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transport. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The lack of readily available healthcare facilities and the challenges associated with transportation create a significant barrier to healthcare access for residents of Glen Rogers. The overall health score for this ZIP code is therefore negatively impacted. Residents may delay or forgo necessary medical care due to transportation difficulties, leading to poorer health outcomes.

Moving to Glen Rogers presents a unique set of considerations. While the area offers natural beauty and a close-knit community, prospective residents must carefully assess their healthcare needs and the feasibility of accessing medical services. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the transportation challenges.

The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on public transportation is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The RCTA buses in Beckley are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the lack of direct service to Glen Rogers limits the usefulness of these features for residents.

The overall health score for Glen Rogers is also influenced by the availability of specialized medical services. Access to specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, often requires travel to larger medical centers in Beckley or even further afield, such as Charleston. This further exacerbates the transportation challenges.

The economic factors also play a crucial role. The affordability of transportation is a significant concern for many residents, especially those with limited incomes. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can create a financial burden, potentially impacting access to healthcare.

The availability of telehealth services can partially mitigate the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a substitute for all types of medical care, and it requires access to reliable internet connectivity, which may be limited in some areas of Glen Rogers.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of emergency medical services (EMS). The response time of ambulances to emergency calls is crucial. The mountainous terrain and the distance to hospitals can potentially delay the arrival of EMS, impacting the outcomes of medical emergencies.

The community's awareness of available transportation options and healthcare resources is also a factor. Promoting awareness through community outreach programs, informational materials, and online resources can help residents navigate the healthcare system and access necessary services.

The overall health score for Glen Rogers is a complex metric, influenced by a multitude of factors. The primary challenge is the geographical isolation and the limited availability of transportation options. The lack of public transportation, the sporadic presence of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to a lower health score.

Improving the overall health score requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancing the road network, exploring the feasibility of expanding public transportation, and promoting ride-sharing services are essential. Supporting telehealth initiatives and ensuring the availability of reliable internet connectivity are also crucial.

For individuals considering moving to Glen Rogers, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the associated transportation challenges is paramount. They should research the availability of medical services, the cost of transportation, and the feasibility of accessing healthcare facilities.

Ultimately, improving the health score for Glen Rogers necessitates a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, local authorities, community organizations, and residents. Addressing the transportation challenges is the first step towards improving healthcare access and promoting better health outcomes for the community.