26047, New Cumberland, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26047, New Cumberland, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.39 percent of residents in 26047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Weirton Medical Center, Inc with a distance of 7.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26047

Assessing the overall health score for residents of New Cumberland, West Virginia, ZIP code 26047, necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical component of this assessment is the ease with which residents can *transport* themselves to and from medical appointments, pharmacies, and other health-related destinations. This includes an examination of drive times, public *transportation* options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical *transport* services. The following analysis provides a comprehensive overview, aiming to inform anyone *moving to New Cumberland* about the realities of *healthcare access* in the area.

The geographical layout of New Cumberland, nestled along the Ohio River, significantly impacts *transportation* considerations. The town is relatively small, with a population of around 1,000, and its proximity to larger urban centers like Weirton and Steubenville, Ohio, influences healthcare choices. The primary roadways serving the area are U.S. Route 22, which offers east-west connectivity, and West Virginia Route 2, which runs north-south along the river. Smaller local roads, such as Veterans Boulevard and Cove Road, provide access within the town itself.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial element. Residents of 26047 have several options for medical care. The closest hospital is Weirton Medical Center, located approximately 15 miles away in Weirton. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive via U.S. Route 22 typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise due to construction or accidents. Another option is Trinity Health System in Steubenville, Ohio, about 20 miles away. Driving there via U.S. Route 22 and Ohio Route 7 can take around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and border crossing wait times.

For routine appointments, residents can often find primary care physicians and specialists in Weirton or Steubenville. These facilities include doctor's offices, urgent care clinics, and specialized practices. Smaller clinics and pharmacies are also located within New Cumberland, offering convenient access to basic healthcare needs and prescription medications. The drive times to these local facilities are generally minimal, typically under 10 minutes.

Public *transportation* options in 26047 are limited. The Hancock CountyHancock County Transit Authority (HCTA) provides bus service within Hancock County. While HCTA offers routes, their frequency and coverage may not fully address the *transportation* needs of all residents, especially those with mobility limitations or residing outside of the main town areas. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is an important consideration. HCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating areas. However, the availability of routes and the frequency of service can still pose challenges for some.

The absence of readily available and reliable public *transportation* underscores the significance of ride-sharing services. Both Uber and Lyft operate in the Weirton and Steubenville areas, offering a potential solution for residents without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in New Cumberland can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical *transport* services are available for individuals who require assistance with *transportation* due to physical limitations or medical conditions. Several companies provide non-emergency medical *transport* (NEMT) services in the area, including private ambulance companies. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of NEMT can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage.

The healthcare landscape in 26047 also includes access to pharmacies. Several pharmacies are located within a reasonable driving distance, including those in Weirton and Steubenville. These pharmacies offer prescription fulfillment, over-the-counter medications, and other health-related products. Drive times to pharmacies are generally similar to those for medical appointments.

When evaluating the overall health score, it's essential to acknowledge the challenges and opportunities related to *healthcare access* in New Cumberland. The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services for accessing healthcare services can be a significant barrier for those without reliable *transportation*. The limited public *transportation* options further exacerbate this challenge, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with lower incomes.

However, the proximity to Weirton and Steubenville offers residents access to a wide range of healthcare facilities and specialists. The presence of local clinics and pharmacies provides convenient access to basic healthcare needs. The availability of NEMT services offers a lifeline for individuals who require assistance with *transportation*.

The overall health score for *transportation* to healthcare in 26047 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the drive times to major medical centers are reasonable, the limitations of public *transportation* and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The availability of NEMT services and the presence of local clinics and pharmacies offer some mitigation.

For individuals *moving to New Cumberland*, a thorough assessment of their *transportation* needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who rely on public *transportation* or have limited mobility should carefully consider the challenges associated with accessing healthcare services. Understanding the available resources, including drive times, ride-sharing availability, and specialized *transport* options, will help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare.

In conclusion, while the *healthcare access* in 26047 presents some challenges, the proximity to larger urban centers and the availability of various healthcare facilities offer residents options. The overall health score is moderately affected by the limited public *transportation* and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing. However, the presence of NEMT services and local clinics provides some support. The overall health score can be improved by increasing public *transportation* options, promoting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable and reliable medical *transport* for all residents.