26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.06 percent of residents in 26330 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is United Hospital Center, Inc with a distance of 2.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26330

Understanding the healthcare landscape is paramount, particularly when considering a move. This assessment focuses on the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Bridgeport, West Virginia, ZIP code 26330, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities. We’ll analyze drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, culminating in an overall health score reflecting the region's capacity to connect residents with necessary medical care. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating **moving to Bridgeport**, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary method of navigating the landscape in 26330 is by car. The proximity of Interstate 79 (I-79) is a significant advantage, offering swift access to regional healthcare hubs. For instance, a drive to United Hospital Center (UHC) in Clarksburg, a major regional provider, typically takes around 10-15 minutes via I-79 South. This relatively short commute is a substantial benefit, providing quick access to emergency services and specialized care. Other routes, such as US Route 19, offer alternative paths, though they may experience higher traffic volume during peak hours.

Local roads like Emily Drive, Milford Street, and W Main Street provide access to smaller clinics and physician offices within Bridgeport itself. These routes, while convenient for local appointments, can be subject to congestion during school drop-off and pick-up times. Residents should factor in these delays when planning their **healthcare access**.

Public transit options in the area are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Harrison County Senior Citizens Center offers some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services often require advance booking and are primarily focused on serving specific populations. The availability of public transit is a key factor influencing the overall health score, as it directly impacts the ability of individuals without personal vehicles to reach medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a supplementary **transportation** option. However, their availability and affordability can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. While ride-sharing provides flexibility, it’s essential to consider the associated costs and potential wait times, especially during inclement weather or peak hours. Medical transportation services, like MedExpress, also offer specialized non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs, providing a crucial link for those unable to drive themselves.

The availability of these alternative **transportation** methods contributes to the overall health score. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer solutions, their accessibility and cost remain factors to consider.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 26330 is influenced by several factors. The primary advantage is the proximity to UHC via I-79, providing rapid access to comprehensive medical services. The presence of local clinics and physician offices within Bridgeport offers convenient options for routine care. However, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative options, but their cost and availability introduce additional considerations.

When assessing the health score, we also consider the distance to specialized medical facilities. While UHC offers a wide range of services, some residents may require specialized care available only in larger cities like Morgantown or Pittsburgh. These trips, while feasible by car, increase travel time and potentially add to the stress of seeking medical attention. The health score reflects the balance between accessible local care and the need for travel to more specialized facilities.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of **transportation** options is a crucial consideration. Public transit services, if available, must adhere to ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Ride-sharing services also strive to provide accessible vehicles upon request. Assessing the availability of accessible **transportation** is critical for ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents.

The overall health score is not static; it can be improved by initiatives that enhance **healthcare access**. Expanding public transit options, increasing the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and promoting the use of medical transportation are all potential avenues for improvement. Furthermore, encouraging the establishment of more specialized medical services within Bridgeport itself would significantly enhance the health score.

The ease of navigation in Bridgeport, West Virginia, is an important consideration. The town is generally easy to navigate, with clear signage and well-maintained roads. However, some areas may experience traffic congestion during peak hours. Familiarizing oneself with the local road network, including alternative routes to avoid traffic bottlenecks, is beneficial for residents.

The impact of weather conditions on **transportation** is also a factor. West Virginia experiences all four seasons, with winter bringing potential for snow and ice. Residents should be prepared for potential delays and disruptions to **transportation** during inclement weather. This underscores the importance of having reliable **transportation** and being prepared for unexpected circumstances.

In conclusion, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in 26330 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to UHC via I-79 is a significant advantage, providing rapid access to a wide range of medical services. The availability of local clinics and physician offices offers convenient options for routine care. However, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative options, but their cost and availability introduce additional considerations. The overall health score is good, but improvements in public transit and the expansion of specialized medical services would further enhance **healthcare access** for all residents, making Bridgeport an even more attractive place for those **moving to Bridgeport**.