26542, Masontown, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26542, Masontown, West Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.58 percent of residents in 26542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Preston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26542 (Masontown, WV)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Masontown, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26542), requires a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, heavily influenced by the available transportation options. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking medical care. The score, ultimately, reflects the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach necessary healthcare providers.

Masontown, nestled within the rolling hills of Preston County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The town's relatively rural setting impacts access to medical facilities, particularly those offering specialized services. The primary determinant of healthcare access here is the ability to travel to Morgantown, the nearest city with a comprehensive medical infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 26542 is personal vehicles. The drive to Morgantown, approximately 20 miles, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The primary route is via **US-19** south, a well-maintained highway that connects Masontown to I-68. This route, while generally reliable, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the I-68 interchange. Alternative routes, such as **WV-7**, offer scenic drives but may add travel time due to winding roads and lower speed limits.

The condition of local roads, including **Main Street** and **Kingwood Pike**, is crucial for residents without personal vehicles. These roads provide access to essential services within Masontown and connect to the larger transportation network. However, their maintenance and safety are critical factors in determining the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in 26542 is limited, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the financial means for ride-sharing. The **Preston County Public Transit (PCPT)** offers some services, but the routes and schedules are often infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings. These limitations directly affect the ability of residents to reach healthcare appointments at convenient times.

The PCPT may offer routes that connect to Morgantown, but the travel time is considerably longer than driving, often exceeding an hour. The accessibility of public transit vehicles is also a critical consideration. The availability of **ADA-compliant** buses is essential for individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access to healthcare. The frequency of service, the location of bus stops relative to residential areas, and the overall reliability of the public transit system are all critical factors in determining the health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Morgantown area and may be utilized by residents of 26542. However, the availability of these services in Masontown itself can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for low-income residents, impacting their ability to access routine medical care.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Several providers operate in the region, including **Medicaid-approved transportation services** and private companies. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients can reach their appointments safely and efficiently. The availability, cost, and reliability of these services directly impact the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access and the Impact of Transportation:**

The overall health score for 26542 is significantly impacted by the challenges related to transportation. The limited public transit options, the potential for long drive times, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access for many residents. These barriers can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately affecting health outcomes.

The distance to Morgantown, the primary hub for healthcare services, necessitates careful planning and coordination of transportation. Individuals without personal vehicles face the most significant challenges, relying on limited public transit, potentially unreliable ride-sharing services, or the assistance of family and friends.

The availability of specialized medical care in Morgantown further emphasizes the importance of efficient transportation. Patients requiring specialist consultations, diagnostic testing, or hospitalizations must navigate the transportation challenges to access these services. The lack of local healthcare facilities necessitates travel, highlighting the critical role of transportation in maintaining good health.

**Moving to Masontown and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals or families considering moving to Masontown, the availability and accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. The distance to Morgantown and the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure require careful planning. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, considering the availability of personal vehicles, the feasibility of using public transit, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Understanding the local healthcare landscape, including the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, is crucial. Researching the availability of transportation options and estimating the associated costs is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access. The overall health score for 26542 is a critical factor in determining the quality of life for residents, and transportation plays a pivotal role in shaping this score.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for 26542 is moderate, primarily due to the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare services in Morgantown. While personal vehicles offer the most efficient transportation option, the limitations of public transit, the potential for ride-sharing service gaps, and the cost of medical transport services create barriers for many residents. Improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing availability, and increasing the accessibility of medical transport services would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve the quality of life for residents of Masontown. Investing in infrastructure, promoting healthcare awareness, and facilitating community partnerships are crucial steps toward ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents of 26542.