26133, Belleville, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26133, Belleville, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.11 percent of residents in 26133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 13.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26133

The health and well-being of residents in Belleville, West Virginia, ZIP code 26133, are inextricably linked to their ability to access healthcare. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the crucial element of transportation, and how it impacts healthcare access. We will explore the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services available to residents. This comprehensive analysis aims to inform potential residents considering moving to Belleville and provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access in this rural community.

The Overall Health Score for 26133 reflects a landscape where healthcare access is significantly influenced by transportation infrastructure. The score considers the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with varying needs. The remoteness of the area and the limited public transportation options contribute to a lower score, while the presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offer some mitigation.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Conduit**

For most residents of 26133, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are West Virginia Route 33, West Virginia Route 14, and West Virginia Route 68. These roads, while providing essential links, can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during the winter months. The drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the specific location within the ZIP code.

The closest hospitals, such as Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, are approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive away, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. Accessing specialized medical services often necessitates longer drives, potentially exceeding an hour. The condition of the roads, particularly the presence of potholes and narrow lanes, can further impact travel times and the safety of patients, especially those with medical conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 26133 are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Wood County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides some services in the surrounding areas, but the routes and schedules are often infrequent, and may not directly serve the needs of residents in 26133. The WCTA may offer some routes that connect to Parkersburg, but these services are typically not designed for frequent trips and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring timely medical attention.

The accessibility of public transit is also a key consideration. While the WCTA is required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that buses are accessible to individuals with disabilities, the limited frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can still pose challenges. The lack of convenient public transit options forces many residents to rely on friends, family, or other informal arrangements for transportation to healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in 26133 is variable and may be limited. While these services can provide a convenient option for some residents, the availability of drivers is often dependent on demand and may be less reliable in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are available in the area for emergency situations, but the response times can be affected by the distance to the nearest healthcare facility. NEMT providers offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, but the availability of these services may be limited, and scheduling appointments often requires advance planning.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score**

The Overall Health Score for 26133 is impacted by several factors. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles all contribute to a complex transportation landscape. The remoteness of the area and the lack of readily available transportation options can create barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, which can negatively impact health outcomes.

The score also considers the affordability of transportation options, the accessibility of services for individuals with disabilities, and the overall reliability of the transportation network. The score is a reflection of the community's ability to ensure that all residents have equal access to healthcare, regardless of their transportation needs.

**Moving to Belleville: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Belleville, 26133, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of vehicle maintenance costs, fuel expenses, and the potential for weather-related delays. Individuals who are unable to drive or who do not have access to a personal vehicle should carefully evaluate the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

It is also important to consider the proximity of healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized medical services. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully assess the drive times to their healthcare providers and the availability of transportation options.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 26133 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, including increasing the frequency of service and extending routes to better serve the needs of residents, is essential. Promoting the availability of ride-sharing services and providing financial assistance to low-income individuals to cover transportation costs can also help improve access.

Investing in road infrastructure, including improving road conditions and addressing safety concerns, can reduce drive times and enhance the safety of patients. Strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers, transportation providers, and community organizations can facilitate the coordination of transportation services and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.

**Conclusion**

The Overall Health Score for 26133 is influenced by the complex interplay of transportation infrastructure and healthcare access. While the area offers a sense of community and the charm of rural living, the challenges of accessing healthcare due to limited transportation options cannot be ignored. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the role of medical transport services is critical for residents and those considering moving to Belleville. By addressing the transportation challenges and investing in solutions, the community can improve healthcare access and promote the health and well-being of all its residents.