40014, Crestwood, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40014, Crestwood, Kentucky is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.24 percent of residents in 40014 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Health Lagrange with a distance of 5.32 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crestwood, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40014)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the challenges of breast cancer, is a complex equation. It extends beyond medical expertise and treatment options; it encompasses the practicalities of getting there. This analysis, tailored for residents and prospective movers in Crestwood, Kentucky (ZIP code 40014), examines the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, specifically focusing on breast cancer treatment facilities. The goal is to illuminate the realities of commuting to care, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on accessibility.

For those considering moving to Crestwood, this assessment offers a crucial perspective. Understanding the transportation infrastructure and available options is paramount in planning for potential healthcare needs. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services, which is a significant factor in overall quality of life.

The core of this analysis lies in understanding the drive times to major healthcare providers specializing in breast cancer care. The primary arteries for transportation in and around Crestwood are Interstate 71 (I-71), a major north-south thoroughfare, and the secondary roads like KY-146 (La Grange Road), KY-329 (Ballardsville Road), and KY-22 (Crestwood Road). These roads connect Crestwood to Louisville and surrounding areas, where specialized cancer centers are located.

Driving to the Norton Cancer Institute, a prominent center for cancer treatment, from Crestwood, typically involves a journey of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The most direct route involves taking I-71 South. Traffic can be a significant factor, especially during peak commuting hours, potentially extending travel times. Another option, though less direct, is to use KY-146 and then connect to other major roads leading to the hospital.

The drive to the University of Louisville Health – Brown Cancer Center, another leading facility, also involves navigating I-71 South. The drive time is roughly comparable to that of Norton Cancer Institute, but could be slightly longer depending on the specific location within Crestwood and traffic. Alternative routes might involve using KY-22 and then connecting to other roads, but these are generally less efficient.

Public transportation options in Crestwood are limited. The Transit Authority of River City (TARC), the primary public transit provider for the Louisville metropolitan area, does not have extensive routes that directly serve Crestwood. Some routes may extend into the outer areas of Louisville, but they do not offer frequent or direct service to Crestwood. This lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of accessible public transit can present a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the cost of other transportation options. ADA features on available routes are important, but they are limited in this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Crestwood. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable. This is an important consideration for those managing chronic conditions or requiring frequent treatments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like Logisticare and Access2Care operate in the Louisville area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility challenges or those who cannot drive. However, availability and scheduling may require advance planning, and the cost can vary depending on insurance coverage and the distance traveled.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Crestwood (40014) reflects these transportation realities. It is a composite score considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options. The score provides a relative measure of the ease or difficulty of accessing breast cancer healthcare services.

**Score Components:**

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to major cancer centers (Norton Cancer Institute, Brown Cancer Center) is a significant factor. Shorter drive times contribute to a higher score.
* **Public Transit:** The lack of direct and frequent public transit routes negatively impacts the score. The absence of accessible public transit lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services are considered. Higher availability and lower costs contribute to a better score.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and ease of scheduling medical transportation services influence the score. Accessible and affordable services improve the score.

**Overall Assessment:**

Crestwood, while offering a desirable suburban lifestyle, faces challenges regarding healthcare access, particularly for those needing specialized cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation is a significant factor. The limited public transit options and the potential costs and unreliability of ride-sharing services are drawbacks. Medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, but their availability and scheduling requirements must be considered.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Residents:** Plan ahead. Factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments. Explore medical transportation options. Consider the cost and availability of ride-sharing services.
* **For Prospective Movers:** Carefully assess the transportation landscape. Consider the potential impact on healthcare access. Evaluate the availability of medical transportation services. Factor transportation costs into your budget.
* **Community Initiatives:** Advocate for improved public transit options. Support initiatives that enhance access to medical transportation services. Promote awareness of available resources.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Crestwood (40014) highlights the importance of transportation in accessing healthcare. While the area offers proximity to quality medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges. This assessment is a valuable tool for residents, prospective movers, and community stakeholders, promoting informed decision-making and fostering a more accessible healthcare environment. The realities of transportation should be considered, especially when making a life-altering decision such as moving. The journey to healthcare is a complex one, and understanding the transportation landscape is a crucial first step.