26164, Ravenswood, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26164, Ravenswood, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.98 percent of residents in 26164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Minnie Hamilton Health System with a distance of 35.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Ravenswood, WV (ZIP Code 26164)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Ravenswood, West Virginia, (ZIP code 26164) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This includes a comprehensive evaluation of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport. The ability to reach medical professionals, hospitals, and pharmacies directly impacts the health and well-being of the community, making transportation a critical factor in determining the overall health score. For anyone considering moving to Ravenswood, understanding these dynamics is paramount.

Ravenswood, nestled along the Ohio River, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relatively rural setting and limited public transportation infrastructure necessitate a careful examination of available options. The health score, therefore, is not solely based on the presence of medical facilities but also on the ease with which residents can reach them. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access within the 26164 ZIP code.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for Ravenswood residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of well-maintained roads and manageable drive times to healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfare in the area is **US Route 33**, which serves as a vital artery connecting Ravenswood to larger towns and cities. Heading east on Route 33 will take you towards Ripley, the county seat of Jackson County, where some healthcare services are available.

Driving west on **US Route 33** offers access to Parkersburg, a regional hub with a wider array of medical specialists and hospital facilities. The drive to Parkersburg, approximately 30 miles, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey is particularly important for accessing specialized care, as Ravenswood itself has limited options for specialized medical attention.

Other key roads influencing healthcare access include **West Virginia Route 2**, which runs parallel to the Ohio River and provides access to communities north and south of Ravenswood. This route can be useful for reaching healthcare providers in neighboring towns, though drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination. **County Route 21** and other secondary roads provide access to local medical offices and pharmacies within Ravenswood.

The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and accessibility. Snow, ice, and flooding can create hazardous conditions, potentially delaying or preventing access to essential medical care. This vulnerability necessitates careful consideration of weather-related disruptions when assessing the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within the 26164 ZIP code are limited. Jackson County, including Ravenswood, is served by the Jackson County Transit Authority (JCTA). However, the JCTA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is primarily designed for elderly and disabled individuals, and its availability is subject to funding and operational constraints.

The JCTA vehicles are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the limited service area and the need for advance scheduling can pose significant challenges for residents needing immediate or unscheduled medical attention. The lack of a robust public transit system is a significant factor that negatively impacts the overall health score.

Furthermore, the absence of a direct public transit route to Parkersburg, the nearest regional healthcare hub, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. This further highlights the need for a more comprehensive public transportation infrastructure to improve healthcare access for all residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area but their presence in Ravenswood is sporadic. Availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in response to urgent medical needs. This inconsistency poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. These services are essential for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, especially for those with mobility limitations or chronic health conditions.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including local ambulance services and regional NEMT providers. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with limited incomes or inadequate insurance coverage. The availability and affordability of medical transport services are crucial factors influencing the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Ravenswood residents is directly impacted by the transportation challenges outlined above. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. These barriers can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and poorer health outcomes.

The lack of readily available transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. These individuals may face significant difficulties in accessing essential medical services, leading to health disparities within the community.

The overall health score is also influenced by the distance to specialized medical facilities. The need to travel to Parkersburg or other regional centers for specialized care adds to the transportation burden and increases the risk of delayed treatment. This underscores the importance of local initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as expanding public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting medical transport services.

**Conclusion:**

Improving the overall health score for residents of Ravenswood, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach to address the transportation challenges that limit healthcare access. Investing in a more robust public transit system, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transport services are critical steps. Furthermore, improving road infrastructure and addressing weather-related disruptions are essential to ensure reliable access to medical care. For those considering moving to Ravenswood, a clear understanding of these transportation dynamics is essential to making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The health and well-being of the community depend on the ability of its residents to reach the healthcare they need, when they need it.