26264, Durbin, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26264, Durbin, West Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.16 percent of residents in 26264 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 27.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Durbin, WV (ZIP Code 26264)

Durbin, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Pocahontas County, presents a unique landscape when assessing overall health, particularly concerning access to healthcare. The vast, mountainous terrain, coupled with a sparse population, significantly impacts transportation options, directly influencing the ability of residents to receive timely and adequate medical attention. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering commute times, transportation alternatives, and healthcare accessibility within and around ZIP Code 26264.

The "Overall Health Score" for Durbin is significantly impacted by the geographical challenges. The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is the personal vehicle. This reliance on personal vehicles introduces a layer of vulnerability for those without access to a car, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. The remoteness of the area necessitates a careful evaluation of the available transportation infrastructure and the impact it has on the community's well-being.

The primary arteries for navigating the region are US Route 250 and West Virginia Route 84. These roadways, while scenic, are often subject to weather-related closures, particularly during winter months. This can create significant delays and potentially life-threatening situations for individuals needing urgent medical care. The winding nature of these roads also contributes to longer travel times, further exacerbating the challenges of healthcare access.

The nearest hospitals and medical facilities are located in surrounding towns, increasing the travel time. The Pocahontas Memorial Hospital in Buckeye, WV, is approximately a 30-minute drive via US Route 250. While this is the closest major medical facility, the drive can be longer during inclement weather. More specialized care may necessitate travel to facilities in Elkins, WV, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via US Route 250 and US Route 33. For more advanced treatments, residents may need to travel to Morgantown, WV, which is a drive of around 3 hours via US Route 250 and I-79.

Public transportation options are limited in Durbin and the surrounding areas. There is no formal public bus system operating within the town. The lack of public transit further underscores the importance of personal vehicles for healthcare access. This absence of public transit creates a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Durbin. This leaves residents with limited options for transportation, particularly for non-emergency medical appointments. The absence of these services amplifies the need for alternative solutions, such as relying on friends, family, or community-based transportation programs.

Medical transportation services are available, but their availability and cost can vary. Companies like Mountain Medical Transport may offer services, but these are often pre-booked and may have limited availability, particularly for urgent situations. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden for residents, especially those with limited financial resources.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration when assessing healthcare access. The lack of public transit and ride-sharing services in Durbin presents challenges for individuals with disabilities. Those who rely on mobility aids or require specialized transportation face significant hurdles in accessing healthcare. The limited availability of accessible transportation options further exacerbates the health disparities within the community.

Moving to Durbin requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The remote location and limited transportation options necessitate proactive planning. Individuals considering relocating to Durbin should research the availability of medical services, understand the travel times to various facilities, and identify alternative transportation options in case of emergencies.

The "Overall Health Score" for Durbin, WV, reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The score is negatively impacted by the long travel times to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, the lack of ride-sharing services, and the potential for weather-related disruptions. The reliance on personal vehicles creates vulnerabilities for those without access to a car, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several strategies can be implemented. Expanding community-based transportation programs, such as volunteer driver services, can provide crucial support for residents. Exploring partnerships with neighboring counties to establish shared transportation resources can help increase access. Investing in telemedicine infrastructure can also improve healthcare access by allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely.

Furthermore, promoting health education and preventative care can help reduce the need for emergency medical services. Encouraging residents to maintain their health and wellness can mitigate the challenges of accessing healthcare. Community involvement and collaboration are essential for addressing the transportation and healthcare needs of the Durbin community.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Durbin, WV, is influenced by the region's geographical challenges and limited transportation options. While the community faces significant hurdles in healthcare access, proactive planning, community collaboration, and the implementation of innovative solutions can help improve the overall health and well-being of its residents. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is crucial for the residents of Durbin, particularly when it comes to the timely and efficient delivery of healthcare.