26267, Ellamore, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

19.56 percent of residents in 26267 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 13.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26267

The overall health of residents in Ellamore, West Virginia, ZIP code 26267, is significantly influenced by the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up assesses the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, considering various transportation options and their associated challenges. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone contemplating a move to Ellamore, allowing for informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in Ellamore is the limited availability of medical facilities within the immediate vicinity. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are situated in neighboring towns, necessitating travel. This reliance on transportation significantly affects the overall health score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The most common method of transportation for healthcare access in 26267 is by personal vehicle. The primary roadways connecting Ellamore to medical facilities are the **US Route 33** and **US Route 219**. Traveling east on US-33 leads to Elkins, approximately a 30-minute drive, where the Davis Medical Center provides a range of services. The road conditions on US-33 are generally good, but can be affected by inclement weather, especially during winter months, potentially delaying travel.

Heading south on US-219 offers access to facilities in Marlinton, roughly an hour's drive. This route, while scenic, can be more challenging due to winding roads and varying road conditions. The drive time can be significantly extended by traffic, construction, or weather events. These factors contribute to the overall health score by potentially delaying urgent medical care.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in 26267 are extremely limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access. The availability of bus routes is minimal, and schedules may not align with medical appointment times. Information on specific routes and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is scarce, highlighting the need for improved public transit infrastructure. This lack of reliable public transportation negatively impacts the health score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Ellamore or the surrounding areas. This leaves residents reliant on other options. Medical transport services, such as **Med-Trans Corporation** and **Air Methods**, are available but are primarily utilized for emergency situations or long-distance transfers. These services are often costly and may not be suitable for routine appointments or preventative care. The limited availability and high cost of ride-share and medical transport options further diminish the overall health score.

**Specific Considerations for Healthcare Access:**

The distance to healthcare facilities is a major concern. The drive times mentioned above can be significantly longer for individuals living on the outskirts of 26267 or those with mobility issues. The lack of nearby pharmacies and urgent care centers further exacerbates the challenges. This geographical isolation contributes to a lower health score, as it can delay access to essential medications and immediate medical attention.

**Impact on Specific Demographics:**

The limitations in transportation options disproportionately affect certain demographics within 26267. Elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. These groups are more likely to rely on public transportation or assistance from others, making them particularly vulnerable to the challenges outlined above. This disparity further lowers the overall health score for the community.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving healthcare access in 26267 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including expanding bus routes and ensuring ADA accessibility, is crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-share services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, establishing a local clinic or urgent care center within the ZIP code would significantly improve healthcare access and positively impact the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Ellamore:**

For those considering moving to Ellamore, understanding the challenges of healthcare access is paramount. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those who require frequent medical appointments should carefully consider the transportation limitations. It is advisable to factor in the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of prescription refills, and the potential need for assistance with transportation. Thorough research and planning are essential to ensure that healthcare needs can be adequately met.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of 26267 is negatively impacted by limited transportation options to healthcare facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the scarcity of public transportation, ride-share services, and medical transport options, creates significant barriers to accessing medical care. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure improvements, community partnerships, and the development of local healthcare services is essential to improve the overall health and well-being of the residents of Ellamore.