26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.86 percent of residents in 26425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Preston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rowlesburg, WV (ZIP Code 26425)

Rowlesburg, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Preston County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. The town's rural character, while offering scenic beauty and a close-knit community, significantly impacts the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the complexities of **transportation** options and their effect on **healthcare access** for those living in ZIP code 26425, providing valuable insights for anyone considering **moving to Rowlesburg**.

The primary challenge in Rowlesburg stems from its geographical isolation. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Morgantown, approximately 45 miles west, and in Oakland, Maryland, roughly 30 miles east. This distance, combined with the winding mountain roads, dictates the overall health score, influencing the ability of residents to receive timely medical attention.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments. The primary route to Morgantown involves navigating West Virginia Route 7, a two-lane highway that snakes through the mountains. Traffic is generally light, but the road's curves and potential for inclement weather, especially during winter, can significantly extend travel times. Expect a drive of at least one hour, potentially longer during peak travel times or adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, residents might opt for US Route 50, a slightly faster route, to reach Morgantown, although it adds a few miles to the journey.

Reaching Oakland, Maryland, requires a journey on West Virginia Route 72 and US Route 219. This route, while shorter in distance, also involves winding roads and the potential for delays due to weather. Driving time to Oakland is typically around 45 minutes to an hour. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter, can directly affect the health score, as it could impede access to emergency services.

Public **transportation** options are extremely limited in Rowlesburg. The Preston County Public Transit system offers demand-response services, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. However, these services are primarily designed for local trips and may not be practical for regular trips to Morgantown or Oakland. Furthermore, the availability of these services is often constrained by funding and staffing limitations. Information regarding routes and ADA features is difficult to obtain, thus negatively impacting the health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Rowlesburg. Their presence is sporadic, and the cost can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments. Reliance on ride-sharing is, therefore, not a reliable option for ensuring **healthcare access**, further lowering the overall health score.

Medical **transportation** services, designed specifically for patients requiring assistance, offer a crucial lifeline for some residents. Companies like MedStar and AMR (American Medical Response) provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, however, are often expensive and require prior arrangements. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their cost and the need for advanced booking still contribute to a lower health score.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is another critical factor. Rowlesburg is served by the Rowlesburg Volunteer Fire Department, which provides ambulance services. Response times can vary depending on the location of the emergency and the availability of volunteers. The remoteness of the area and the potential for challenging road conditions can impact response times, thus influencing the overall health score.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges extends beyond routine medical appointments. Access to specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and other specialist services, is significantly impacted. Patients requiring these services must travel to Morgantown or beyond, adding to the burden of their illness and potentially delaying treatment. This lack of specialized care within close proximity further reduces the overall health score.

The availability of pharmacies in Rowlesburg is another consideration. Residents can fill prescriptions locally, but the limited selection of over-the-counter medications and medical supplies may necessitate trips to larger pharmacies in Morgantown or Oakland. This adds to the **transportation** burden and impacts the overall health score.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Rowlesburg, WV (ZIP Code 26425) is negatively impacted by the combination of factors. The remote location, limited public **transportation**, and inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to accessing medical care. While medical **transportation** services offer a solution for some, their cost and the need for advance booking limit their accessibility.

The health score is further affected by the potential for adverse weather conditions, which can significantly extend travel times and impede access to emergency services. The lack of specialized care within close proximity and the limited availability of pharmacies also contribute to a lower score.

For individuals **moving to Rowlesburg**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** options is crucial. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully consider the challenges of accessing care. The overall health score reflects the reality of living in a rural area, where access to quality medical care requires careful planning and a reliance on personal **transportation**.

The overall health score for Rowlesburg is therefore considered to be below average. While dedicated individuals and resources strive to provide quality care, the inherent challenges of **transportation** in this rural environment significantly impact **healthcare access**. This score should be considered alongside other factors when evaluating the suitability of Rowlesburg as a place to live, particularly for those with complex medical needs. The score highlights the importance of proactive planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers and ensuring reliable **transportation** options.