26386, Lumberport, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26386, Lumberport, West Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.05 percent of residents in 26386 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grafton City Hospital, Inc with a distance of 17.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26386

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Lumberport, West Virginia, ZIP code 26386, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis considers the various transportation options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking medical care. The goal is to provide valuable insights for prospective residents considering moving to Lumberport, as well as for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The health score is not a single numerical value, but rather a holistic evaluation based on the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary medical services. Factors such as distance, travel time, mode of transportation, and accessibility features are all considered. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score highlights potential barriers.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roads**

For many Lumberport residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is personal vehicles. The efficiency of this option is heavily influenced by the local road network. The primary artery serving Lumberport is **US Route 19**, which connects the town to larger population centers like Clarksburg and Fairmont. Travel times to healthcare facilities in these cities are key indicators of healthcare access.

Driving to United Hospital Center in Clarksburg, a major regional hospital, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Lumberport. This journey involves navigating **US Route 19** south, and then connecting to **Interstate 79** to reach the hospital. The condition of **US Route 19** is a critical factor, as potholes and traffic congestion can significantly increase travel times, especially during peak hours.

Similarly, accessing Fairmont Regional Medical Center in Fairmont involves a drive north on **US Route 19**. The distance is slightly greater, resulting in a travel time of approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This route also involves navigating local roads and potential traffic bottlenecks, particularly near Fairmont. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a consideration, as limited spaces can add to the overall time and stress of a medical visit.

The condition of these highways is a constant concern. The West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) regularly undertakes maintenance and repair projects. However, these projects can sometimes lead to temporary lane closures or delays, further impacting travel times. Residents should always check the WVDOT website or utilize real-time traffic applications before embarking on a healthcare journey.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Lumberport are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Harrison County Senior Citizens Center provides some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services are often demand-response, meaning they must be scheduled in advance and may not be available for all types of medical appointments.

The West Virginia University (WVU) Transportation and Parking Services operates a limited bus service in the region, but the routes and schedules may not adequately serve the healthcare needs of Lumberport residents. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can access public transit. Information on specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA features can be obtained by contacting the WVU Transportation and Parking Services or the Harrison County Senior Citizens Center.

The lack of robust public transportation options significantly impacts the health score for Lumberport residents, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a personal vehicle. The absence of frequent and reliable public transit creates a barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Clarksburg and Fairmont areas, offering an alternative transportation option for healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services in Lumberport may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could make them an expensive option. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern, as drivers may not always be readily available, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The availability of NEMT services in Lumberport is crucial for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to their medical condition.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. The availability of financial assistance programs or insurance coverage for these services is essential to ensure equitable access to healthcare.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Lumberport, ZIP code 26386, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Clarksburg and Fairmont provides some advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant challenges. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial factors in mitigating these challenges.

The healthcare access score is impacted by the transportation infrastructure, the availability of public transit, and the presence of alternative transportation options. The ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, directly affects their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

For prospective residents considering moving to Lumberport, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability of alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

To improve the overall health score for Lumberport residents, several actions are recommended. Investing in improved public transportation infrastructure, including expanding bus routes and increasing the frequency of service, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Collaborating with ride-sharing companies to ensure service availability and affordability is another important step.

Supporting the expansion of medical transport services, including NEMT providers, would also be beneficial. Educating residents about available transportation options and financial assistance programs is crucial. Promoting initiatives that improve the condition of **US Route 19** and other local roads would reduce travel times and enhance the safety of healthcare journeys.

The healthcare access score in Lumberport is a dynamic measure, influenced by various factors. Continuous monitoring of transportation options, healthcare needs, and community resources is essential to ensure that all residents can access the medical care they need. By addressing the transportation challenges and investing in healthcare access, Lumberport can improve the health and well-being of its residents, making it a more attractive place to live and thrive.