26764, Terra Alta, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26764, Terra Alta, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.37 percent of residents in 26764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Potomac Valley Hospital with a distance of 27.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Terra Alta (ZIP Code 26764)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. In Terra Alta, West Virginia (ZIP code 26764), this access is heavily influenced by transportation infrastructure and available options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, for residents seeking healthcare services. The score will reflect the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach necessary medical appointments and facilities.

The topography of Terra Alta, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique challenge. The rugged terrain and limited population density influence transportation options, impacting the overall health score. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the landscape for potential residents considering moving to Terra Alta and its implications for healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare**

For most residents, the primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles. The primary roadways serving Terra Alta are US Route 50 and WV Route 26. US Route 50, a major east-west artery, provides access to Morgantown and Oakland, Maryland, both offering a range of healthcare facilities. WV Route 26 provides a more local connection, leading to nearby towns and smaller medical practices.

Drive times are crucial. To reach the nearest hospital, Preston Memorial Hospital in Kingwood, the drive averages approximately 20-30 minutes via WV Route 26. This is a reasonable timeframe for emergency situations and routine appointments. However, specialized care may necessitate longer journeys.

Morgantown, approximately 45-60 minutes away via US Route 50, offers a more comprehensive array of medical services, including WVU Medicine facilities. This longer commute time, especially during peak hours, can pose a barrier for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Oakland, Maryland, another option, is roughly a 30-45 minute drive via US Route 50. It offers Garrett Regional Medical Center and other healthcare providers. This provides additional options, but the travel time remains a factor.

The condition of these roadways is also a consideration. While generally well-maintained, winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Terra Alta are extremely limited. Preston County operates a small transit system, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily designed for local travel within the county. This system may not directly serve the healthcare needs of all residents.

There are no fixed-route bus services connecting Terra Alta to Morgantown or Oakland. This absence significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, disabled, and those with low incomes.

The lack of comprehensive public transit severely restricts healthcare access for a segment of the population. The absence of ADA-compliant buses further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. This deficiency significantly lowers the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Gaps and Opportunities**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often sporadic and availability can be limited, especially in rural areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments can be unreliable, and the cost can be a significant burden.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are available, but they may require advance booking and can be costly. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The availability of medical transport is a positive factor, but its limitations – cost, scheduling constraints, and potential wait times – must be considered. The reliance on these services highlights the gaps in transportation infrastructure and the need for alternative solutions.

**Overall Health Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

Considering all factors, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Terra Alta (26764) is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The primary strength is the relatively short drive time to Preston Memorial Hospital. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport significantly detract from the score.

The score is negatively impacted by the long commute times to Morgantown for specialized care, the lack of public transit options, and the potential for weather-related disruptions. Individuals considering moving to Terra Alta must carefully weigh these factors, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or require frequent medical appointments.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations**

To improve the overall health score, several initiatives are recommended. Expanding public transit options, including routes connecting Terra Alta to Morgantown and Oakland, is paramount. These routes should be ADA-compliant and operate on a reliable schedule.

Promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could offer discounted or subsidized transportation for patients. Exploring grant opportunities to support medical transport services and expand their reach is another crucial step.

Investing in road maintenance and snow removal to ensure safe and reliable travel during winter months is essential. Promoting telehealth services and remote patient monitoring can also reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, thereby improving healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Terrain of Healthcare Access**

The ability to access healthcare is fundamental to community health. In Terra Alta, the transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. While the proximity to Preston Memorial Hospital provides a degree of convenience, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or costly medical transport create barriers for many residents.

For those considering moving to Terra Alta, a thorough understanding of these transportation factors is crucial. Careful planning, consideration of individual healthcare needs, and exploration of available resources are essential for ensuring access to quality medical care. By addressing the transportation challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, Terra Alta can enhance its overall health score and create a healthier community for all its residents. The future success of Terra Alta hinges on providing better transportation options for the residents.