26559, Barrackville, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26559, Barrackville, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.58 percent of residents in 26559 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Marion with a distance of 5.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26559

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 26559 (Barrackville, West Virginia), provides an "Overall Health Score" predicated on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Barrackville. Understanding these factors is crucial for evaluating the overall health and well-being of the community.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Barrackville is the reliance on personal vehicles. Residents navigate the area primarily via **Interstate 79 (I-79)**, the major north-south artery, and **US Route 19**, which intersects with I-79 and provides access to surrounding towns. Local roads, including **WV Route 310** and **WV Route 218**, serve as connectors, but their winding nature and potential for delays, particularly during inclement weather, must be factored into the equation.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the destination. The closest options are in Fairmont, the county seat of Marion County. A trip to Fairmont Regional Medical Center, located off **I-79**, generally takes between 10 and 20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. Specialized clinics and physician offices within Fairmont add to the overall healthcare options, but drive times remain a crucial consideration.

Morgantown, home to WVU Medicine facilities, including J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, represents a more significant commute. The journey, primarily via **I-79 South**, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic volume, especially during peak hours. This extended travel time is a significant factor in the overall health score, as it increases the potential for delays in accessing urgent care and routine appointments.

Public transportation options in Barrackville are limited. The Mon Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) operates a bus service within Marion County, but the routes and schedules are not designed to provide convenient access to healthcare facilities. The MVTA, however, does offer some routes that connect to Fairmont, but these are not frequent and may not be accessible to all residents.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The MVTA strives to provide accessible buses, but riders should confirm ADA compliance before traveling. Furthermore, the limited frequency of service and the distances involved can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. The lack of robust public transit infrastructure negatively impacts the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources. While ride-sharing offers a degree of flexibility, it is not a guaranteed solution for healthcare transportation.

Medical transport services, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the area. Ambulance services are crucial for emergency situations, while NEMT providers cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are essential for individuals with disabilities, those who cannot drive, or those with medical conditions that preclude them from driving.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region. These include local ambulance services and NEMT providers, often contracted through insurance companies or directly by individuals. The quality and availability of these services vary, so residents should research their options and understand their insurance coverage. These services can be costly, and the overall health score reflects the financial implications.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 26559 is moderately impacted by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options increase the time and effort required to access healthcare. The commute times to Morgantown, the primary location for specialized care, are a significant concern.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides additional options, but these services are not always readily available or affordable. The lack of robust public transit and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic further contribute to the challenges.

For those considering moving to Barrackville, this analysis underscores the importance of carefully evaluating transportation needs and healthcare access. Prospective residents should consider their individual circumstances, including their medical conditions, mobility limitations, and financial resources.

The overall health score is also impacted by the availability of local healthcare providers. While Fairmont offers a range of medical services, residents may need to travel to Morgantown for specialized care. The distance and travel time to Morgantown are a significant factor in the overall health score.

The community's health is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides a clear picture of the transportation challenges faced by residents of 26559, impacting their ability to access medical care. The score reflects the need for improvements in public transportation, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.