26138, Brohard, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 26138 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 8.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26138

This analysis provides an overall health score for healthcare access within ZIP Code 26138, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. This assessment is crucial for anyone considering moving to Brohard, West Virginia, or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in this rural area is the reliance on personal vehicles. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the geographical layout and the road infrastructure. The primary thoroughfare is US Route 50, a major east-west highway that connects to various healthcare providers. However, the speed limit and traffic conditions can influence drive times, particularly during peak hours. Additionally, secondary roads such as County Route 14 and County Route 15 provide access to local communities and may offer shorter routes to certain facilities, although these roads are often less well-maintained and may be subject to weather-related closures.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the origin point within the ZIP code. For example, the drive to the nearest hospital, located in a neighboring town, could range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Specialized clinics and specialist appointments might require travel to larger cities, extending drive times significantly, potentially up to an hour or more. This extended travel time poses a challenge, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility, impacting their healthcare access and overall health.

Public transportation options are limited in ZIP Code 26138. The availability of bus routes and other public transit services is minimal, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. There are no fixed-route bus services operating within the ZIP code. The lack of public transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, hindering their ability to attend medical appointments, access prescriptions, and maintain their health.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, further restricting healthcare access. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, may be available, but their coverage and cost vary.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, the availability of these services may be limited, and scheduling appointments can be challenging, especially with short notice. Furthermore, the cost of medical transportation can be a significant financial burden for some patients.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 26138 is moderate, reflecting the challenges posed by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential barriers associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable for some, can be a significant obstacle for others, particularly those with limited mobility or those living in remote areas. The absence of reliable public transit exacerbates these challenges, making it difficult for individuals without personal vehicles to access necessary medical care.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options offers some solutions, but their inconsistent availability and potential cost barriers limit their effectiveness. The overall health score is further influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The presence of local clinics and primary care physicians improves healthcare access, but the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care can still pose challenges.

Considering a move to Brohard requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and evaluate the availability of healthcare services in the area. Individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations should pay particular attention to the drive times to healthcare facilities and the availability of medical transportation options. Researching local healthcare providers and understanding the transportation infrastructure are essential steps in making an informed decision.

Furthermore, the health score can be improved by initiatives that enhance healthcare access. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical transportation options would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of home healthcare visits could also help mitigate the challenges posed by long drive times and limited transportation options.

The overall health score is a dynamic measure that can change over time. As the population of Brohard grows, and as the healthcare landscape evolves, the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare services may change. Regular monitoring of the health score is essential to ensure that residents have adequate access to healthcare and that any potential barriers are addressed.

In conclusion, while ZIP Code 26138 offers a rural lifestyle, healthcare access presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential barriers associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services contribute to a moderate overall health score. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements before moving to Brohard. By understanding the transportation landscape and the availability of healthcare services, residents can make informed decisions and ensure they have access to the care they need.