42347, Hartford, Kentucky Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 42347, Hartford, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.22 percent of residents in 42347 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 2.47 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42347

The air hangs heavy in Hartford, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42347), a town nestled amidst rolling hills and the Green River. For residents managing asthma, the journey to healthcare access can be a significant hurdle, impacting their quality of life and requiring careful consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, offering insights for those seeking healthcare and considering moving to Hartford. We will explore the realities of commuting to medical appointments, detailing drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport options.

The primary artery connecting Hartford to surrounding areas is the Western Kentucky Parkway. This highway offers a relatively swift route to larger medical facilities in Owensboro, approximately 45 miles west. A drive along the parkway typically takes around 50 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. However, the parkway is not always a smooth ride. Accidents, construction, and inclement weather can significantly extend travel times, turning a routine trip into a stressful ordeal, especially for someone experiencing an asthma flare-up.

Alternatively, residents can utilize US Highway 62, which runs east-west through Hartford. This road provides access to smaller clinics and medical offices in neighboring towns like Beaver Dam and Central City. The drive to Beaver Dam, a shorter 15-minute trip, offers a quicker option for urgent care or routine check-ups. Central City, about a 30-minute drive, presents a slightly more extensive range of medical services. These routes, however, are often subject to slower speeds and traffic lights, increasing overall travel time.

Public transportation options within and around Hartford are limited. The Ohio County Transit Authority (OCTA) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily designed for local travel, not necessarily for healthcare access. OCTA's services may be ADA-accessible, but this information requires direct confirmation with the authority. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their asthma symptoms. This lack of viable transportation options is a major consideration for anyone moving to Hartford and relying on public transit for healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Owensboro, but their presence in Hartford is sporadic and unreliable. Securing a ride can be challenging, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The availability of ride-sharing is not guaranteed, and the cost can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments. This unreliable access to ride-sharing services further complicates healthcare access for asthma sufferers.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services often require advance booking and can be costly, but they provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or use public transit. Researching local medical transport providers is crucial for those managing asthma and considering their transportation needs.

The lack of readily available healthcare within Hartford itself necessitates travel to other towns. The nearest hospital, Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, offers a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care for respiratory conditions. However, the commute, as mentioned, is a significant factor, particularly during asthma exacerbations. The stress of the journey can exacerbate symptoms, making the need for readily available transportation even more critical.

Healthcare access is intricately linked to transportation. For asthma sufferers in Hartford, the transportation options present both opportunities and challenges. The Western Kentucky Parkway provides a relatively efficient route to Owensboro, but the reliance on personal vehicles or the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services can create obstacles. The limited public transit options and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather add to the complexity.

When considering moving to Hartford, individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate their transportation needs. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential for travel delays should be paramount considerations. The availability of medical transport services and the potential for ride-sharing are also crucial factors.

The "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 42347 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the Western Kentucky Parkway offers a relatively quick route to Owensboro, the lack of robust public transit, the unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create barriers. Careful planning and consideration of transportation needs are essential for residents managing asthma in Hartford.

The availability of healthcare access is a crucial factor in quality of life, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions. The transportation landscape in Hartford, while offering some options, presents challenges that require proactive planning. The "Asthma Score" encourages residents to assess their individual needs and to explore all available transportation resources to ensure timely and convenient access to healthcare.