Asthma Score

42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky Asthma Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.99 percent of residents in 42320 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 4.41 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky

Asthma Score 6
People Score 20
Provider Score 14
Hospital Score 40
Travel Score 32

Closest Hospital - OHIO COUNTY HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 42320 Beaver Dam Kentucky
No Cars 1.63 1.63 2.51
1 Car 15.10 15.10 18.75
2 Cars 32.69 32.69 41.78
3 or More Cars 50.58 50.58 36.96

Vehicular Access in 42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky

Travel Score Review of 42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Beaver Dam, KY (ZIP Code 42320)

The crisp air of Ohio County, Kentucky, holds a certain charm, but for individuals managing asthma, the air quality and the accessibility of healthcare services are paramount. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, specifically for residents of Beaver Dam (ZIP Code 42320), focusing on transportation options to reach crucial medical care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for potential residents or those considering moving to Beaver Dam.

Understanding the challenges and opportunities within the local transportation landscape is essential for asthma patients. The ease with which one can access a pulmonologist, allergist, or emergency care directly impacts quality of life. This assessment aims to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their location.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Beaver Dam is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical facilities is critical. The primary route to Owensboro, the nearest city with comprehensive medical services, is via the Western Kentucky Parkway (WK Parkway). This major thoroughfare offers a relatively smooth and efficient journey.

From Beaver Dam, the drive to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Beaver Dam. This drive involves navigating the WK Parkway and then transitioning onto the US-60, a major arterial road within Owensboro. The US-60 offers direct access to the hospital and various specialist clinics.

For those needing to access the Louisville area, the drive is considerably longer. The journey involves taking the WK Parkway eastward, connecting to I-65 North. The total drive time to Louisville, home to world-class hospitals like the University of Louisville Hospital and Norton Healthcare, is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, particularly during peak traffic hours, and considering the potential for asthma exacerbation during a long car ride.

Smaller towns like Hartford, KY, offer some primary care facilities and are accessible via KY-62. This route offers a shorter drive, but the medical services are generally less specialized than those available in Owensboro or Louisville.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Beaver Dam and the surrounding areas is limited. The primary public transit provider in the region is the Owensboro Transit System (OTS). However, OTS primarily operates within the city limits of Owensboro. There is no direct public transportation route connecting Beaver Dam to Owensboro or other major medical centers.

This lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive due to their asthma or other health conditions. The absence of reliable public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative methods, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The Owensboro Transit System does offer some ADA-accessible buses, which are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited geographic reach of the OTS renders this feature irrelevant for residents of Beaver Dam seeking to access healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Owensboro. However, their presence in Beaver Dam is less consistent and availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel.

However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. It is crucial for individuals with asthma to investigate their insurance coverage for medical transport services before relying on them.

**Specific Medical Transport Brands:**

While the specific brands of medical transport services available in the area can fluctuate, some companies commonly serve the region. Researching local ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers is essential.

It is also crucial to inquire about the specific services offered, such as oxygen support during transport, the availability of trained medical personnel, and the types of vehicles used. These factors are particularly important for individuals with asthma, as they can significantly impact their comfort and safety during transportation.

**Accessibility Considerations for Asthma Patients:**

Beyond transportation options, the physical accessibility of medical facilities is also important. Ensure that the chosen facilities have accessible entrances, elevators, and waiting areas. Consider the proximity of the facility to parking areas, as walking long distances can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Furthermore, the air quality within the medical facility is crucial. Ensure that the waiting areas and examination rooms are well-ventilated and free from potential asthma triggers, such as strong odors or allergens.

**Asthma Score Assessment and Recommendations:**

Based on the assessment of transportation options in Beaver Dam (ZIP Code 42320), the "Asthma Score" is moderate. While the ability to drive to Owensboro for specialized care is relatively straightforward, the lack of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges.

Individuals with severe asthma or those without access to a personal vehicle should carefully consider the transportation limitations when making decisions about healthcare and location.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity to healthcare:** Consider living closer to Owensboro or a location with more reliable transportation options.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Investigate insurance coverage for medical transport services and identify reliable providers.
* **Develop a transportation contingency plan:** Have backup transportation options in place for emergencies or when ride-sharing is unavailable.
* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Support initiatives to expand public transit options in the area.
* **Choose medical facilities wisely:** Select medical facilities with accessible features and good air quality.
* **Consult with your physician:** Discuss your transportation needs and concerns with your physician to develop a personalized healthcare plan.

Moving to Beaver Dam, or any location, requires careful consideration of all aspects of healthcare access. The "Asthma Score" is not a definitive judgment but a guide to help individuals with asthma make informed decisions. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can proactively manage their healthcare needs and ensure access to the vital medical care they require.

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Health Scores Near 42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky

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Health Scores in 42320, Beaver Dam, Kentucky