26817, Bloomery, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26817, Bloomery, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.96 percent of residents in 26817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hampshire Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bloomery, WV (ZIP Code 26817)

Bloomery, West Virginia, nestled in the embrace of Hampshire County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare accessibility. The "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 26817 hinges significantly on the ease and efficiency with which they can access necessary medical services. This write-up delves into the complexities of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural community. The goal is to provide prospective residents, especially those **moving to Bloomery**, with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities that shape their health journey.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Bloomery is the reliance on personal vehicles. The rural nature of the area, coupled with the limited public transportation infrastructure, makes driving the predominant mode of travel. Residents navigate a network of roads, including **US Route 50**, a vital east-west artery, and **West Virginia Route 29**, which serves as a crucial north-south connector. Other important roads include **Bloomery Pike**, **Mount Olive Road**, and **Old Bloomery Road**.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the destination and traffic conditions. Winchester Medical Center, located in Winchester, Virginia, is a major regional hospital that serves the area. The drive to Winchester Medical Center from Bloomery typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, assuming good traffic flow. This journey primarily involves traveling on **US Route 50** and then transitioning onto **Interstate 81**.

Other healthcare options, such as primary care physicians and specialists, are scattered throughout the region. The drive to these facilities can range from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on their location. This underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration of travel time when choosing a healthcare provider. The ability to drive safely and reliably is, therefore, a critical factor in maintaining good health for Bloomery residents.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in Bloomery and the surrounding area. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including seniors, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. This lack of **transportation** options can create a barrier to **healthcare access**, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments and ultimately impacting health outcomes.

While specific public transit routes serving Bloomery are scarce, it is worth noting that the Winchester, Virginia area has some limited public transit options. The **Winchester Transit System** operates several bus routes within the city limits. However, these routes do not directly serve Bloomery and require a significant commute. Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) would need to be investigated.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability in a rural setting like Bloomery are subject to fluctuations. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for some residents, further exacerbating the challenges of **healthcare access**.

Specialized medical transport services offer an alternative for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, which often cater to patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs, can provide door-to-door transportation. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient.

Several medical transport brands serve the region. **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **LifeCare Ambulance Service** are among the most common providers, offering both emergency and non-emergency medical transport. **Care Ride** and other private companies offer non-emergency medical transport services. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability of vehicles may be limited, particularly in a rural area like Bloomery.

The topography of the region, with its rolling hills and winding roads, can also present challenges for transportation. Weather conditions, such as snow and ice during the winter months, can further complicate travel and increase the risk of accidents. These factors highlight the importance of maintaining vehicles in good condition and being prepared for potential delays or disruptions.

The overall health score for Bloomery residents is therefore significantly impacted by the **transportation** infrastructure and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, creates a situation where access to healthcare is dependent on individual circumstances and resources. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some alternatives, but their reliability and affordability remain key concerns.

For individuals **moving to Bloomery**, understanding these complexities is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and assess their ability to access healthcare facilities. This includes evaluating the distance to healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with travel. Planning ahead and establishing a reliable means of transportation are essential for maintaining good health in this rural community.

The community's commitment to improving **healthcare access** is also a factor. Efforts to expand public transportation, promote ride-sharing initiatives, or subsidize medical transport services could significantly improve the overall health score for Bloomery residents. Community involvement in advocating for better healthcare options is crucial.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Bloomery, WV (ZIP code 26817) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limitations in **transportation** options pose a significant challenge to **healthcare access**. The ability to drive, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, is crucial for accessing medical care. Prospective residents, especially those **moving to Bloomery**, must carefully consider these factors when assessing their health and well-being in this rural community. The development of community-based solutions to improve transportation and healthcare access is vital to enhance the overall health score for the residents of Bloomery.