40140, Garfield, Kentucky Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 40140, Garfield, Kentucky is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.11 percent of residents in 40140 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Breckinridge Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.80 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in the Heart of Kentucky (ZIP Code 40140)

The creak of a knee, the sting in a finger, the persistent ache of arthritis – these are familiar companions for many. For those residing in or considering a move to Garfield, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40140), understanding the accessibility of healthcare, specifically for individuals managing arthritis, is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can access rheumatology services and other essential medical care, impacting their overall quality of life.

Garfield, nestled in the rolling hills of Breckinridge County, presents a unique challenge. The rural setting, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, often translates to limited healthcare infrastructure. The primary consideration for anyone with arthritis is the ability to reach medical appointments with minimal stress and discomfort. This is where the transportation network becomes the critical determinant of healthcare access.

The most common mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Driving is the lifeline connecting Garfield residents to the broader healthcare ecosystem. From Garfield, the journey to larger medical centers typically involves traversing a network of highways and roads. The primary artery is **US Highway 60**, a vital east-west corridor. Heading east on US-60 will eventually lead you to Elizabethtown, Kentucky, a regional hub with a variety of medical specialists.

**Drive times to Elizabethtown** are generally manageable. Depending on the specific location within Garfield, the drive could take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive is mainly on US-60, a well-maintained road. For those seeking rheumatology services, the drive to Elizabethtown offers several options. **Baptist Health Hardin** in Elizabethtown is a major healthcare provider that is known to have rheumatology services.

Another option, especially for those in the western part of Garfield, is to head west on US-60 towards Owensboro, Kentucky. The drive to Owensboro is longer, taking approximately an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. Owensboro is a larger city with more extensive healthcare options. **Owensboro Health Regional Hospital** is a major hospital in Owensboro that provides rheumatology services.

The secondary roads, such as **KY-261** and various county roads, offer alternative routes, but they can be narrower and less well-maintained. These roads may add to the travel time and could be less comfortable for individuals with arthritis.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Garfield. This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their condition. The absence of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the Arthritis Score, as it limits healthcare access for a vulnerable population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability can be sporadic, especially in rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services is crucial for medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments. The lack of consistent ride-sharing availability impacts the overall Arthritis Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a lifeline. These services, such as **CareRide** or **Medicaid-approved transportation providers**, are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may accommodate mobility aids. The availability and accessibility of these services are vital for individuals with arthritis. It is crucial to research the specific medical transport options in the area to ensure they are available and meet individual needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. While ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers are often required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring the vehicle is accessible and the driver is trained to assist is vital.

The Arthritis Score for Garfield (ZIP Code 40140) is impacted by the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. The drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable, but the lack of alternative transportation options creates a significant barrier for some residents.

Healthcare access is not solely about reaching a doctor's office. It also encompasses the availability of pharmacies, physical therapy clinics, and other support services. In Garfield, these services are often located in Elizabethtown or Owensboro. This means that individuals with arthritis may need to make multiple trips to different locations for various aspects of their care.

The decision to move to Garfield, or any rural area, for that matter, should involve a thorough assessment of healthcare access. Individuals with arthritis should carefully evaluate the transportation options, considering their physical limitations and financial resources. The availability of reliable transportation is a key factor in maintaining quality of life and managing their condition effectively.

The Arthritis Score for Garfield is moderate. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are reasonable, the lack of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. Individuals considering a move to Garfield should prioritize researching medical transportation options and ensuring they have a reliable means of accessing healthcare.

In conclusion, the transportation infrastructure in Garfield, Kentucky, presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals with arthritis. While the drive times to larger cities with healthcare facilities are manageable, the lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration. The Arthritis Score highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when evaluating healthcare access in this rural setting. Moving to Garfield requires a proactive approach to ensure access to the medical care needed to manage arthritis effectively.