26323, Anmoore, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26323, Anmoore, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.00 percent of residents in 26323 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland-Clarksburg Hospital, Inc with a distance of 4.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26323 (Anmoore, West Virginia)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Anmoore, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26323), a rural community nestled in the heart of Harrison County, the ability to reach medical professionals, specialists, and emergency services is a critical determinant of overall health. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to residents seeking **healthcare access**. The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those **moving to Anmoore** and current residents alike.

The geographical reality of Anmoore presents both challenges and opportunities. While the town itself is relatively compact, access to comprehensive healthcare often requires travel to larger population centers like Clarksburg or even Morgantown. This necessitates reliance on various **transportation** modes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect these complexities.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary artery serving Anmoore is Interstate 79 (I-79), a north-south highway that provides the most direct route to Clarksburg, the county seat, located approximately 5 miles south. Driving to United Hospital Center (UHC), the primary hospital in the region, typically takes 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This is considered a relatively favorable drive time, contributing positively to the "Overall Health Score." However, traffic congestion on I-79, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend this commute, potentially impacting timely access to urgent care.

Beyond I-79, residents rely on a network of secondary roads, including US Route 19, which intersects with I-79 near Anmoore, and various local roads like Milford Street and Main Street. Travel on these roads, while offering alternative routes, can be slower due to lower speed limits and potential for winding sections. For instance, reaching specialist clinics in Clarksburg via US Route 19 might add 5-10 minutes to the journey compared to using I-79.

Traveling north on I-79 to Morgantown, home to West Virginia University Medicine, requires a longer drive, approximately 45-60 minutes. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to accessing specialized care, particularly for those with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent appointments. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges this challenge.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Anmoore are limited, impacting the "Overall Health Score." The Harrison County Senior Citizens Center operates a demand-response transit service, providing transportation to medical appointments for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service is a vital resource for a segment of the population, offering a crucial lifeline for **healthcare access**. However, the service requires advance booking, and availability can be constrained, particularly during peak demand.

The West Virginia Department of **Transportation** (WVDOT) does not operate a fixed-route bus system that directly serves Anmoore. This absence of readily available public transit presents a significant challenge for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the limited public **transportation** options available.

Regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, the Senior Citizens Center's service is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair users. However, the lack of a broader public transit network with ADA-compliant features limits **healthcare access** for a wider range of individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clarksburg area, including Anmoore. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in accessing care. The "Overall Health Score" considers this variable reliability.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available in the region. These services are crucial for emergency situations and for transporting patients with specific medical needs. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability of non-emergency medical transport options is limited. This financial burden can impact **healthcare access**, especially for low-income residents.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

In the 26323 ZIP code, medical transport services are primarily provided by local ambulance companies and emergency medical services (EMS) providers. Specific brand names may vary. These services are crucial for emergency situations. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) is also available, often arranged through healthcare providers or insurance companies. However, the specific providers and their service areas can vary.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Anmoore (26323) is moderate. The relatively short drive to UHC in Clarksburg via I-79 is a positive factor. However, the limited public **transportation** options, the potential for traffic congestion on I-79, and the longer drive times to specialized medical facilities in Morgantown present significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services with variable availability, and the cost of specialized medical transport further complicate the picture.

For individuals **moving to Anmoore**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is crucial. While the town offers a sense of community and a relatively low cost of living, the ability to access timely and affordable healthcare requires careful consideration. Planning for potential transportation challenges, exploring alternative **transportation** options like the Senior Citizens Center's service, and considering the availability of ride-sharing services are essential steps.

The "Overall Health Score" is dynamic. Improvements in public **transportation**, increased availability of ride-sharing services, or initiatives to address traffic congestion on I-79 would positively impact the score. Conversely, any reduction in access to healthcare facilities or increased costs associated with **transportation** would negatively affect the score. The health of Anmoore residents depends, in part, on the ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** and the **transportation** infrastructure that supports it.