42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.67 percent of residents in 42140 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Medical Center with a distance of 7.86 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Gamaliel, KY (ZIP Code 42140)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It involves not just medical expertise, but also the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. This write-up analyzes these elements for residents of Gamaliel, Kentucky (ZIP code 42140), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering travel times, transit options, and available resources, particularly for individuals *moving to Gamaliel*.

Gamaliel, a rural community nestled in Monroe County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in surrounding cities, necessitating travel. This geographical reality significantly impacts the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the area. We will explore the available *transportation* options, assessing their feasibility and potential impact on patients' ability to receive timely and comprehensive care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The most common mode of *transportation* for residents of Gamaliel is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are crucial. The primary routes involve navigating the rural roadways, with the most direct paths leading to Bowling Green, Kentucky, approximately 75 miles away, and Nashville, Tennessee, roughly 90 miles distant.

To reach Bowling Green, one would typically utilize Kentucky Route 100, a two-lane road that winds through the rolling hills of Monroe County. This route offers scenic views but can be susceptible to delays due to weather conditions or slow-moving farm equipment. Upon reaching Glasgow, the journey continues on the Louie B. Nunn Parkway (also known as the Cumberland Parkway), a limited-access highway that provides a more efficient passage towards Bowling Green. The total drive time under ideal conditions is about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Traveling to Nashville necessitates a similar initial route along Kentucky Route 100, then transitioning onto Tennessee Route 100, and finally, Interstate 65 South. This route is longer, and the drive time is approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, especially around Nashville. These drive times, while manageable for routine appointments, can become burdensome for frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Gamaliel and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Monroe County does not have a dedicated public transit system. The availability of intercity bus services is also scarce. This lack of public *transportation* presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their health conditions.

For individuals with disabilities, the absence of accessible public *transportation* is a particularly acute concern. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public *transportation*, but the lack of a formal system in Monroe County means that ADA-compliant *transportation* is virtually nonexistent. This further diminishes the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Bowling Green and Nashville. However, their presence in Gamaliel is not guaranteed. Availability depends on driver density and demand, making them unreliable for scheduled appointments or emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical *transportation* services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while offering a crucial lifeline, can be expensive and require advance booking. The availability of these services and their coverage area from Gamaliel are crucial factors in assessing *healthcare access*.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Gamaliel, KY (42140) is moderate. The primary challenges are the long drive times to specialized cancer centers and the limited public *transportation* options. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential financial strain of ride-sharing or medical *transportation* services create barriers to *healthcare access*.

The score is further impacted by the lack of local support groups or cancer care facilities within the immediate vicinity. This means patients must travel for not only medical treatment but also for supportive services like counseling, support groups, and educational resources.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Those Moving to Gamaliel**

For individuals *moving to Gamaliel* and those seeking to improve *healthcare access*, several considerations are paramount. Prioritize finding a primary care physician in the area and establishing a relationship for referrals. Research the availability and cost of medical *transportation* services in advance. Explore potential support networks in neighboring communities.

Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities when choosing a residence. While Gamaliel offers a peaceful rural lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical care should be a key factor in the decision-making process.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Gamaliel highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the *healthcare access* landscape. While the rural setting presents challenges, awareness of the available *transportation* options, careful financial planning, and the establishment of a strong support network can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The journey to healthcare is a complex one, and in Gamaliel, it requires careful consideration of the practical realities of *transportation* and the available resources.