26271, Hendricks, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26271, Hendricks, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.47 percent of residents in 26271 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 15.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26271

ZIP Code 26271, encompassing the charming town of Parsons, West Virginia, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. Nestled amidst the Allegheny Mountains, the area's beauty is undeniable, yet its remoteness significantly impacts healthcare access. Evaluating the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical services is crucial for understanding the health of this community. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the nuances of transportation options, the availability of healthcare facilities, and the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking medical attention.

The primary challenge in 26271 stems from its geographical isolation. The rugged terrain and limited infrastructure significantly influence transportation choices. The primary thoroughfare is **US Route 219**, which snakes its way through the county, offering the most direct route to larger towns and healthcare providers. However, this two-lane highway can be subject to delays due to weather, especially during the harsh West Virginia winters. Secondary roads, such as **WV Route 72** and various county roads, provide alternative routes, yet these often involve winding mountain passes and are less reliable, especially for emergency situations.

Public transportation options are severely limited. The absence of a dedicated public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The lack of regular bus routes or other forms of public transport leaves many residents reliant on private vehicles, ride-sharing services, or assistance from family and friends. The nearest major bus terminal is in Elkins, approximately 30 miles away, making it inaccessible for many.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness are highly variable. The limited driver availability in a rural area can result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares. This is especially problematic for those with urgent medical needs or limited financial resources. Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a more specialized solution, but their availability and coverage areas are also limited.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the overall health score. The nearest hospital, **Davis Medical Center** in Elkins, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive via US Route 219. This drive time can be significantly extended during inclement weather or peak traffic hours. Other healthcare providers, including specialists and urgent care facilities, are often located in Elkins or even further afield, increasing the travel time and complexity of accessing care.

The availability of healthcare providers within 26271 is limited. The town of Parsons has a few primary care physicians, but access to specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and dermatologists, often requires travel to Elkins or even Morgantown, a drive of over two hours. This lack of specialized care presents a significant challenge for residents with chronic conditions or complex medical needs.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of existing transportation and healthcare facilities is another crucial consideration. While some healthcare facilities strive to meet ADA standards, the age and infrastructure of the region can present challenges. Ensuring that transportation options, including ride-sharing services and medical transport, are accessible to individuals with disabilities is essential for equitable healthcare access.

**Moving to Hendricks** and other areas within 26271 requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The decision to relocate to a rural area often involves a trade-off between the benefits of a slower pace of life and the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare providers, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical services.

The overall health score for 26271 is significantly impacted by the transportation challenges. The lack of public transportation, the reliance on private vehicles, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited availability of specialists, and the potential for delays due to weather further compound these challenges.

The community's health is directly linked to its ability to overcome these transportation hurdles. Investing in improved infrastructure, exploring innovative transportation solutions, and expanding the availability of healthcare services are essential steps toward improving the overall health score for 26271. This could involve initiatives such as supporting the development of telehealth services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide discounted transportation for medical appointments, and advocating for the expansion of public transportation options.

Furthermore, a proactive approach to healthcare access is necessary. This involves promoting preventative care, educating residents about available resources, and ensuring that all residents have access to the medical attention they need, regardless of their ability to drive or afford private transportation. The health of the community depends on it.