41554, Phyllis, Kentucky Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 41554, Phyllis, Kentucky is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.18 percent of residents in 41554 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pikeville Medical Center with a distance of 12.27 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 41554**

The air hangs heavy in ZIP Code 41554, a reality for those battling asthma. The undulating terrain of eastern Kentucky, nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. This analysis, an "Asthma Score" for the region, delves into the complexities of transportation, a critical determinant of healthcare access, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions. It assesses the available modes of transport, their reliability, and their suitability for those managing asthma, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the obstacles and opportunities for accessing vital medical care.

The primary concern is healthcare access, particularly for those with asthma. This necessitates understanding the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services is paramount. The Asthma Score considers factors like travel time, the availability of public transit, the accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. It is a crucial factor for anyone moving to Phyllis, a small community within the zip code.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in 41554, yet the drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly. The nearest hospital, Pikeville Medical Center, is approximately 25 miles away, a drive that can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. The primary routes are US Route 23, a major thoroughfare, and Kentucky Route 197, a winding road that can be treacherous during inclement weather. These roads, while providing access, can be stressful for asthma sufferers, especially during peak traffic hours.

The journey to specialty clinics, often located further afield, presents even greater challenges. Trips to Lexington, Kentucky, for specialized care, can easily consume three to four hours of driving time each way, a significant burden for individuals requiring frequent appointments. The Asthma Score must account for the impact of these long drives on asthma management, considering the potential for increased exposure to pollutants and the physical strain of extended travel.

Public transportation options in 41554 are limited. The local transit authority, the Big Sandy Area Development District (BSADD), offers bus services, but routes are infrequent, and the coverage is sparse. There are no direct routes to major healthcare facilities, and the buses are not equipped with the latest ADA features. This makes them less than ideal for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. The BSADD bus service operates primarily on weekdays, further limiting its usefulness for appointments scheduled on weekends or evenings.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density, which is low in this rural area. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for individuals with limited incomes, a common reality in this region. The reliability of these services is another concern, as cancellations or delays can disrupt medical appointments and compromise healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more reliable option. These services, often provided by companies like KVC Health Systems, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. They offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which is not always feasible in emergency situations.

The Asthma Score must consider the environmental factors that exacerbate asthma symptoms. Air quality in 41554 can be poor, particularly during the winter months when wood-burning stoves are prevalent. The mountainous terrain traps pollutants, leading to increased levels of particulate matter and other irritants. The long drive times to healthcare facilities also expose individuals to vehicle emissions, further compounding the problem.

The score incorporates a detailed analysis of the availability of pharmacies and the accessibility of prescription medications. The ability to obtain medications promptly and affordably is crucial for managing asthma. The location of pharmacies, their hours of operation, and the availability of delivery services are all factored into the score.

The Asthma Score for 41554 is not just a number; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals with asthma. It highlights the challenges they face in accessing healthcare and underscores the need for improved transportation options. It can inform the development of targeted interventions, such as increased public transit routes, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the promotion of medical transportation options. It is a call to action for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to work together to improve healthcare access for all residents, particularly those with asthma.

For anyone moving to Phyllis, this Asthma Score provides a critical understanding of the healthcare landscape. It allows individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, ensuring they have access to the care they need. The score will be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access.