42163, Rocky Hill, Kentucky Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 42163, Rocky Hill, Kentucky is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 42163 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Caverna Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.28 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rocky Hill (ZIP Code 42163)

The golden glow of a Kentucky sunset paints the rolling hills surrounding Rocky Hill, a small community nestled in the heart of Barren County, Kentucky. For those considering a move to this tranquil haven, particularly those managing the challenges of arthritis, understanding **healthcare access** is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the realities of **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP code 42163, offering a comprehensive perspective on navigating the journey to medical care.

Rocky Hill’s charm lies in its rural character, but this very characteristic shapes the landscape of **transportation**. Public transit, a cornerstone of accessibility in more urban settings, is limited. This reality significantly impacts the Arthritis Score, as individuals with mobility limitations often rely on alternative modes of getting around.

The primary artery connecting Rocky Hill to broader medical resources is **Kentucky Route 65 (KY-65)**, a two-lane highway that winds its way through the countryside. This road, while scenic, can present challenges, especially during inclement weather. Driving times to key healthcare facilities are crucial considerations for anyone with arthritis.

The nearest major medical center is the **T.J. Samson Community Hospital** in Glasgow, approximately a 15 to 20-minute drive from Rocky Hill. This relatively short commute is a significant positive factor in the Arthritis Score. The route typically involves traveling south on KY-65 and then connecting to **US-31E** before reaching the hospital. This drive, though manageable, requires careful navigation and consideration of traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

Specialist care, however, often necessitates longer journeys. The **Medical Center at Bowling Green**, a larger facility with a broader range of specialists, is roughly a 45-minute to an hour drive. This trip involves traveling north on KY-65, connecting to the **William H Natcher Parkway (I-165)**, and then transitioning to **US-31W**. This longer drive can be fatiguing for individuals with arthritis, making reliable **transportation** options even more critical.

**Public Transit:**

Unfortunately, the public transit landscape in Barren County presents significant limitations. The **Green River Area Development District (GRADD)** provides some demand-response transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services, though offering ADA-compliant vehicles, require advance booking and are subject to scheduling constraints. This can be a major hurdle for those with unpredictable arthritis symptoms. The routes and schedules are not readily available online and require a phone call to determine availability. This lack of easily accessible information is a negative factor in the Arthritis Score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Rocky Hill is limited. While occasional service might be available, it's not a reliable option, especially for appointments scheduled at specific times. This scarcity significantly impacts the Arthritis Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility challenges, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including **CareRide Medical Transportation** and **A1 Medical Transportation**. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these options provide a valuable lifeline, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access and the Arthritis Score:**

The Arthritis Score for Rocky Hill, considering **transportation** factors, is moderate. The proximity of T.J. Samson Community Hospital offers a significant advantage. However, the lack of robust public transit, the limited availability of ride-share services, and the reliance on potentially costly medical transport services create challenges.

**Moving to Rocky Hill** with arthritis requires careful planning. Prospective residents should:

* **Assess their mobility needs:** Consider the frequency and type of medical appointments required.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Research and establish relationships with medical transport providers.
* **Factor in travel time:** Account for longer drive times to specialist appointments.
* **Consider proximity to support networks:** Having family or friends who can provide **transportation** assistance is invaluable.

**Additional Considerations:**

* **Pharmacy Access:** Assess the proximity and accessibility of pharmacies for medication refills.
* **Home Healthcare:** Investigate the availability of home healthcare services, which can reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources that may offer assistance with **transportation** or other support services.

In conclusion, while Rocky Hill offers a peaceful and welcoming environment, individuals with arthritis must proactively address the **transportation** challenges. By carefully evaluating their needs, exploring available resources, and planning accordingly, residents can successfully navigate the journey to **healthcare access** and enjoy the tranquility of this Kentucky community. The Arthritis Score serves as a reminder that proactive planning is essential for a fulfilling life in Rocky Hill.