40484, Stanford, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40484, Stanford, Kentucky is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.40 percent of residents in 40484 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ephraim Mcdowell Fort Logan Hospital with a distance of 1.99 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Stanford, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40484)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not only the emotional and physical toll of the disease itself but also the practical considerations of accessing timely and appropriate medical care. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Stanford, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40484), focusing on transportation and healthcare access. This is critical information for anyone moving to Stanford or already residing there, especially those concerned about their breast health.

Stanford, a charming town nestled in Lincoln County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. Its rural location, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, can complicate the logistics of receiving specialized medical attention. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to assess the ease with which residents can reach essential breast cancer care facilities.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

For many in Stanford, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments will be a personal vehicle. The drive times to the nearest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care are crucial. The closest options typically involve navigating the roads and highways surrounding Stanford.

One of the primary routes involves traveling east on US-150, a major artery connecting Stanford to Danville. This route provides access to Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center, a facility that offers a range of medical services, including some cancer care. The drive to Danville, depending on traffic, typically takes around 20-30 minutes. The journey is generally straightforward, but potential delays can occur during peak traffic hours or due to road construction.

Another viable option involves heading north on KY-643, which eventually connects to US-127. This route leads to facilities in Lexington, a city with more specialized cancer centers. The drive to Lexington, a more significant journey, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on US-127 and the final destination within Lexington. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for frequent appointments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

For those residing in the southern parts of Stanford, a journey south on KY-78 might be an option, though this route will likely involve a longer drive to facilities in Somerset or beyond. The time commitment for these destinations can range from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and the specific location.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Public transportation options in Stanford and the surrounding areas are limited. Lincoln County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or prefer not to drive.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the Bluegrass Area Development District (BADD) provides some transportation services. These services are primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer demand-response transportation, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service may offer some assistance for medical appointments, but availability and scheduling limitations can make it challenging to rely on for regular cancer care. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on these vehicles are essential for those with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another potential transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like Stanford can be inconsistent. The frequency of drivers and the potential for longer wait times are considerations. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients can provide a more reliable solution. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. Several companies operate in the region, including some that specialize in non-emergency medical transport. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

**Medical Facilities: A Spectrum of Care**

The availability of breast cancer care facilities in the immediate vicinity of Stanford is limited. Residents typically must travel to Danville, Lexington, or Somerset for comprehensive services. Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center in Danville offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and chemotherapy. However, for more specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or access to clinical trials, patients may need to travel to Lexington.

The University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center in Lexington is a leading cancer center, offering a full spectrum of services, including advanced treatments and clinical trials. The drive to Lexington, while longer, provides access to a higher level of care.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to Stanford**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Stanford, Kentucky, reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. The score considers the drive times, the limited public transportation options, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the proximity to comprehensive cancer care facilities.

For individuals considering moving to Stanford, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or who are at high risk, careful consideration of these factors is essential. The availability of reliable transportation is paramount. Access to a personal vehicle or the ability to secure consistent transportation is crucial.

The score also highlights the importance of planning. Patients with breast cancer need to develop a transportation plan that considers the frequency of appointments, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the potential for unexpected delays.

The score is not a definitive measure of healthcare quality, but rather a reflection of the practical challenges of accessing care. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, the need to explore all available transportation options, and the value of building a strong support network. For those moving to Stanford, understanding these factors is crucial to ensuring timely and effective breast cancer care. The ability to navigate these transportation and healthcare access challenges is a critical component of overall well-being.