26285, Norton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26285, Norton, West Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.89 percent of residents in 26285 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 5.85 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26285 (Norton, West Virginia)**

Welcome to Norton, West Virginia, a community nestled in the heart of the Mountain State. For those considering a move to this tranquil locale, understanding healthcare accessibility is paramount. This report offers a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the critical aspect of transportation to healthcare facilities within and around the 26285 ZIP code. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a clear picture of healthcare access for prospective residents.

The 26285 ZIP code encompasses the town of Norton and its surrounding areas in Randolph County. The primary healthcare provider for the region is Davis Medical Center, located in Elkins, approximately 15 miles away. This distance translates to a drive of roughly 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The main thoroughfare connecting Norton to Elkins is US Route 33, a well-maintained highway that offers a relatively smooth commute. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, travel times can increase.

Alternative routes, such as County Route 26 (Leading Creek Road) and County Route 250 (Dry Fork Road), provide options for those seeking to avoid potential congestion on US Route 33. However, these roads are often more winding and may be subject to seasonal closures due to snow or landslides, impacting transportation and healthcare access. The condition of these secondary roads is a factor that must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

Public transportation options within the 26285 ZIP code are limited. The Randolph County Senior Center provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, primarily for medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. The availability of public transit is a significant factor influencing the overall health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Elkins area, but their presence in Norton is less consistent. Availability can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the demand for services. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, and potential wait times should be factored into any healthcare access assessment. The limited ride-sharing options impact the overall health score.

Specialized medical transport services, including ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the region. These services are crucial for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or who need transport to and from medical appointments. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical components of the overall health score, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Norton, the overall health score is influenced by the interplay of several factors. The primary consideration is the drive time to Davis Medical Center in Elkins. While the distance is relatively short, the reliance on a single major highway (US Route 33) introduces a degree of vulnerability to traffic and weather conditions. The lack of robust public transportation and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

The availability of specialized medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for those with specific needs. However, the overall health score is diminished by the limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or less reliable ride-sharing services. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when evaluating the suitability of Norton as a place to live.

When assessing the overall health score, the following aspects are particularly important. The drive time to the nearest hospital (Davis Medical Center) is a primary consideration. The reliability of the primary route (US Route 33) and the availability of alternative routes are also crucial. The presence and accessibility of public transportation, including the Randolph County Senior Center services, are essential for those without personal vehicles.

The availability and consistency of ride-sharing services (Uber and Lyft) in the Norton area are factors to consider. The availability and responsiveness of specialized medical transport services, such as ambulances and NEMT, are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. The overall health score is a composite measure, reflecting the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare services.

For those moving to Norton, understanding these factors is critical. The overall health score is a measure of the accessibility of healthcare services, and it should be a key consideration when evaluating the community. The score will be influenced by the availability of various transportation options, the reliability of those options, and the potential for delays or disruptions.

The overall health score for the 26285 ZIP code reflects the relative ease of accessing healthcare services. While the drive to Davis Medical Center is manageable, the limited public transportation options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services reduce the overall score. The availability of specialized medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but it does not fully compensate for the limitations in other transportation options.

The overall health score for Norton, West Virginia, is moderate. While the primary healthcare provider is within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transportation options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services present challenges for some residents. The availability of specialized medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but the overall score is influenced by the interplay of all these factors. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when evaluating the suitability of Norton as a place to live, ensuring they have a clear understanding of healthcare access and transportation options.