26836, Moorefield, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26836, Moorefield, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.07 percent of residents in 26836 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grant Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26836

Moving to Moorefield, West Virginia, (ZIP Code 26836) presents a unique set of considerations when evaluating overall health, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing medical services within and around this rural community. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value, but rather a descriptive assessment considering the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It reflects the ease, efficiency, and affordability of reaching medical facilities, recognizing that these factors significantly influence individual and community well-being. The score considers the inherent challenges of a rural environment, balancing them against available resources.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in 26836 is the personal vehicle. The landscape is dominated by scenic routes, but the distances to specialized medical care can be significant.

Moorefield is situated at the intersection of US Route 220 and West Virginia Route 55. These are the primary arteries for travel. US Route 220 provides a north-south connection, while WV Route 55 stretches east-west. Travel times to healthcare facilities are highly dependent on destination and traffic.

For basic medical needs, the Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg, approximately 20 miles north on US Route 220, is a crucial resource. The drive typically takes around 30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This relatively short commute contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score."

However, for specialized care, the picture changes. Winchester Medical Center in Winchester, Virginia, about 60 miles east, offers a broader range of services. The drive, primarily on WV Route 55 and then Interstate 81, can take over an hour, often longer during peak hours or inclement weather. This longer commute introduces a significant barrier to healthcare access, negatively impacting the score.

Further afield, Morgantown, West Virginia, and its associated medical facilities, including the WVU Medicine system, are approximately 100 miles northwest. The drive, requiring travel on WV Route 55 and then Interstate 79, can easily exceed two hours. This distance presents a considerable challenge, especially for individuals requiring frequent or urgent care.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 26836 are limited. This is a significant factor in the "Overall Health Score" assessment.

The Potomac Highlands Transit Authority (PHTA) provides some transportation services in the region. However, their routes and schedules are often infrequent, and may not align with the needs of individuals seeking medical appointments. The availability of fixed-route buses is minimal, and the service primarily operates on a demand-response basis, requiring advance booking.

The PHTA offers a "demand-response" service, meaning that residents must call in advance to schedule a ride. This service is often used for medical appointments. The PHTA's vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and potential wait times can create challenges.

The lack of robust public transit options significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This necessitates reliance on family, friends, or more expensive transportation alternatives.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally unavailable in 26836. This absence further exacerbates transportation challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services, however, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals needing assistance getting to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers.

These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The cost of these services can vary significantly, depending on distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage.

Medical transport services are essential for improving the "Overall Health Score." However, the reliance on these services, coupled with their potential cost, highlights the importance of careful planning and financial considerations for those seeking healthcare in 26836.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 26836 presents a mixed picture. The availability of a local hospital, Grant Memorial Hospital, provides a positive element, offering immediate access to basic medical care. However, the limited public transportation, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care create significant challenges. The distances to larger medical centers and the dependence on medical transport services introduce potential barriers to healthcare access, impacting the "Overall Health Score."

Moving to Moorefield requires a thoughtful assessment of transportation needs. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those needing frequent medical attention should carefully consider the implications of limited transportation options. Careful planning, including understanding the availability and cost of medical transportation services, is crucial.

The "Overall Health Score" for 26836 is moderately impacted by the rural setting. While the community offers a sense of tranquility, the transportation landscape presents challenges for accessing healthcare. The score is influenced by the balance between local resources and the need to travel for specialized care. The availability of medical transport services offers a safety net, but the overall picture emphasizes the importance of personal vehicle access and advance planning for healthcare needs.