26671, Gilboa, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26671, Gilboa, West Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.41 percent of residents in 26671 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Summersville Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26671 (Gilboa, West Virginia)

Navigating the terrain of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially to a rural area like Gilboa, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26671). This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the available transportation infrastructure, detailing the journey to medical facilities and considering the potential impact on residents' well-being. The score will be derived from the ease of *transportation* options, the proximity of *healthcare access*, and the overall feasibility of receiving timely medical attention.

Gilboa, nestled in the heart of West Virginia, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. The area is characterized by its mountainous landscape, limited public *transportation*, and a reliance on personal vehicles for most errands. This geographical reality significantly influences the health and wellness of its residents. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are often located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating travel. This write-up will explore the available routes and modes of *transportation* to these facilities, providing a comprehensive overview for potential residents.

The primary artery for travel in and out of Gilboa is Route 19, a major north-south thoroughfare. Accessing healthcare facilities often involves traversing this highway. The drive to Charleston, the state capital, which boasts several hospitals and medical specialists, is approximately a 60-90 minute journey via Route 19 South. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather, can significantly extend this travel time. Smaller communities, such as Summersville, offer closer options for medical care. The drive to Summersville Regional Medical Center via Route 19 North is significantly shorter, usually taking around 20-30 minutes.

For those without personal vehicles, the options are limited. Public *transportation* in this region is sparse. The West Virginia Department of *Transportation* (WVDOT) operates a statewide public transit system, but service in Gilboa and surrounding areas is minimal. Bus routes, if available, may be infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. The lack of frequent public *transportation* options creates a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. Furthermore, the availability of accessible *transportation* for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) on any existing public transit is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of West Virginia, but their presence in Gilboa is uncertain. Their availability depends on driver density and demand, which can fluctuate. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments. Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private companies, may provide a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. These services typically offer door-to-door *transportation* to medical appointments. However, their availability and cost vary, and they may require advance booking.

When *moving to Gilboa*, prospective residents must consider the potential impact of limited *transportation* options on their health and well-being. The distance to medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the scarcity of public *transportation* all contribute to a lower overall health score. This situation can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention. The need for long travel times can lead to delays in accessing care, potentially impacting health outcomes.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 26671 is negatively impacted by the lack of public *transportation* and the reliance on personal vehicles. The distance to medical facilities, particularly specialized care, increases the risk of delayed or missed appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services is uncertain, and the cost of medical *transportation* can be a significant burden.

The presence of Route 19 provides a vital link to healthcare facilities, but the dependence on this highway makes residents susceptible to traffic delays and weather-related disruptions. The lack of alternative *transportation* options exacerbates the challenges. The overall score is also affected by the potential for isolation, particularly for those who are unable to drive.

To improve the overall health score, efforts should be made to enhance *healthcare access* through various strategies. Increased investment in public *transportation*, including more frequent bus routes and the potential for demand-response services, would significantly improve the situation. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized *transportation* for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of local medical clinics would reduce the need for long-distance travel.

The availability of accessible *transportation* for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. Ensuring that any public *transportation* options are ADA-compliant and that medical *transportation* services are readily available is essential. Education and outreach programs to inform residents about available *transportation* options and *healthcare access* resources would also be beneficial.

In conclusion, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 26671 reflects the challenges posed by the area's rural setting and limited *transportation* infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public *transportation*, and the distance to medical facilities create barriers to *healthcare access*. While Route 19 provides a vital link, the absence of alternative options and the potential for travel delays negatively impact the overall health score. Prospective residents *moving to Gilboa* must carefully consider these factors and explore strategies to mitigate the challenges of accessing healthcare. The implementation of improved public *transportation*, increased telehealth services, and the expansion of local medical resources would significantly improve the health and well-being of Gilboa residents.