40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.64 percent of residents in 40047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flaget Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.96 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 40047**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, is a critical factor in overall well-being. This analysis focuses on transportation options and healthcare access within ZIP code 40047, encompassing the Mount Washington area. Our goal is to assess the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability. This information aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score," empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and living arrangements.

The 40047 ZIP code, nestled in Bullitt County, Kentucky, presents a unique transportation landscape. While the area offers a blend of suburban and rural settings, it's essential to understand the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare facilities, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or facing mobility limitations. For those considering moving to Mount Washington, this assessment is crucial.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most residents in 40047. The major thoroughfare is the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265), which provides relatively quick access to Louisville's medical centers. However, rush hour can significantly impact drive times. During peak traffic, the commute to downtown Louisville, where many specialized cancer treatment centers are located, can extend to 45 minutes or even an hour.

Another important route is Highway 44, which connects Mount Washington to Shepherdsville and other surrounding communities. While offering a more direct route to some local medical facilities, Highway 44 can also experience congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. Smaller roads, such as Cedar Creek Road and Bardstown Road, provide access to local clinics and medical offices, but they are often slower and more prone to traffic delays.

The drive to Norton Cancer Institute, a leading cancer treatment center in Louisville, typically takes around 30-45 minutes via I-265, depending on traffic. Baptist Health Louisville, another major hospital with comprehensive cancer care, is accessible in a similar timeframe. The University of Louisville Hospital, known for its advanced cancer research and treatment, is also within a 45-minute drive.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in 40047 are limited. The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) provides some service to the area, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to Louisville. Route 71, the Outer Loop, is the most relevant TARC route, but it primarily operates along I-265, with limited stops in the Mount Washington area. This route offers some connectivity to healthcare facilities in Louisville, but the frequency and coverage are insufficient for the needs of many cancer patients.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. TARC buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that causes fatigue or weakness.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 40047 area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive themselves. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Availability can also be an issue, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited service.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with assistance from trained staff. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. Some major medical transport providers in the Louisville area include CareRide and American Medical Response (AMR).

**Healthcare Access and Breast Cancer Care**

Access to timely and comprehensive breast cancer care is crucial. This includes access to screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and supportive care services. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation, and the affordability of services all play a vital role in ensuring that patients receive the care they need.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance is a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." While 40047 residents have access to Louisville's medical centers, the commute times and transportation challenges can impact the overall score.

**Assessing the "Breast Cancer Score"**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 40047 considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive time to major cancer treatment centers.
* **Public Transit:** The availability and frequency of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to local clinics and hospitals.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options.

Based on these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 40047 is moderate. While residents have access to excellent cancer care in Louisville, the transportation challenges can create barriers to access. The limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays on major roadways can impact the ease and convenience of accessing healthcare.

**Recommendations**

To improve the "Breast Cancer Score" for 40047, several steps could be taken:

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of TARC routes in the area, particularly those connecting to healthcare facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments.
* **Expand Medical Transport Options:** Increase the availability of medical transport services, particularly for patients with limited mobility or financial constraints.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Address traffic congestion on major roadways to reduce commute times.
* **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the use of telehealth services for follow-up appointments and consultations, reducing the need for in-person visits.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment that reflects the transportation challenges and opportunities facing residents of 40047. While the area offers access to quality healthcare, transportation remains a significant factor. By addressing the identified challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, the community can enhance healthcare access for all residents, particularly those facing the complexities of breast cancer. For those considering moving to Mount Washington, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being.