26201, Buckhannon, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26201, Buckhannon, West Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.60 percent of residents in 26201 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Joseph's Hospital Of Buckhannon, Inc with a distance of 0.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26201 (Buckhannon, WV)

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when evaluating overall health. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding Buckhannon, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26201), to determine an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the accessibility of medical services. This score considers various modes of transportation, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all crucial elements in determining how easily residents can reach necessary medical care.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 26201 is the reliance on personal vehicles. Buckhannon's relatively rural setting and limited public transportation options mean that the vast majority of residents depend on driving. This dependence highlights the importance of assessing drive times to various healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for travel are **US Route 33** and **US Route 119**, which converge near the city center. These highways provide access to the surrounding areas and link Buckhannon to larger cities like Morgantown and Charleston, where more specialized medical services are available.

The closest major healthcare provider is **St. Joseph's Hospital**, located within Buckhannon. Drive times to this facility are generally short, typically under 10 minutes for most residents, making it a significant advantage for those living in the area. However, for specialized care or services not offered at St. Joseph's, residents may need to travel further.

For more comprehensive medical care, residents might consider traveling to Morgantown, approximately 70 miles away. This journey primarily involves **US Route 33** and **Interstate 79**. The drive time to Morgantown, home to the West Virginia University (WVU) Medicine system, can range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This longer travel time underscores the importance of planning and potential challenges for those needing frequent or urgent care.

Another option for specialized care is Charleston, roughly 100 miles south. The route involves **US Route 119** and **Interstate 79**. The drive to Charleston, home to various medical facilities, can take between 2 and 2.5 hours. This longer distance presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those requiring regular appointments.

Public transportation options in Buckhannon are limited. The **Upshur County Senior Center** offers some transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services often require advance booking and may have restrictions on the destinations served. Public transit is not a readily available option for the general population.

The absence of a robust public transportation system, with limited routes and infrequent schedules, presents a significant challenge for residents who do not own a vehicle or cannot drive. This lack of options impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for those with mobility limitations, low incomes, or other barriers to transportation. The need for improved public transit is evident, especially considering the aging population in the area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Buckhannon, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for some residents. While ride-sharing provides a potential alternative to driving, its reliability and affordability are crucial factors to consider when evaluating its impact on healthcare access.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. **Mountain State Ambulance Service** and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation due to medical conditions. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, further impacting the Overall Health Score.

The availability of medical transport services is a critical component of healthcare access, especially for individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses. However, the cost and availability of these services can vary, influencing their impact on the Overall Health Score. The reliance on these services highlights the need for a comprehensive transportation strategy that addresses the diverse needs of the community.

When considering moving to Buckhannon, prospective residents must factor in the limitations of the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances.

The Overall Health Score for 26201 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity of **St. Joseph's Hospital** provides a significant advantage for local residents. However, the limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the longer travel times to specialized medical facilities in Morgantown and Charleston present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some alternatives, but their reliability, cost, and accessibility can vary.

The Overall Health Score is influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of **St. Joseph's Hospital** is a positive factor, but the need for specialized care may require travel to larger cities, impacting the overall score. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals within Buckhannon is crucial for determining the ease of accessing healthcare.

The Overall Health Score also considers the socioeconomic factors affecting transportation and healthcare access. Income levels, insurance coverage, and the presence of social support networks can significantly influence an individual's ability to access medical care. The cost of transportation, the availability of affordable healthcare options, and the presence of community resources are all essential components of the Overall Health Score.

The absence of a robust public transportation system, with limited routes and infrequent schedules, presents a significant challenge for residents who do not own a vehicle or cannot drive. This lack of options impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for those with mobility limitations, low incomes, or other barriers to transportation. The need for improved public transit is evident, especially considering the aging population in the area.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for 26201 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While local healthcare access is relatively good, the limitations in transportation options, particularly public transit, and the longer travel times to specialized medical facilities present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some alternatives, but their reliability and cost must be considered. Prospective residents should carefully assess their individual needs and circumstances when evaluating the healthcare access in Buckhannon. A comprehensive transportation strategy, including improved public transit, would significantly enhance the Overall Health Score and improve healthcare access for all residents.