42223, Fort Campbell, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42223, Fort Campbell, Kentucky is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.35 percent of residents in 42223 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blanchfield Ach (Ft Campbell) with a distance of 1.25 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 42223**

Understanding healthcare access is critical, especially when considering a move or facing a health concern like breast cancer. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 42223, encompassing Fort Campbell and its surrounding areas, aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" by evaluating transportation options to medical facilities offering breast cancer services. This score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, painting a clear picture of healthcare access for those residing in or moving to this area.

The primary focus will be on accessing facilities providing comprehensive breast cancer care, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. This analysis will not be a definitive medical assessment but rather a transportation-focused overview, emphasizing the practicalities of reaching these vital services.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The most common mode of transportation in this area is the personal vehicle. Assessing drive times is paramount. From the heart of Fort Campbell, access to healthcare facilities varies. Blanchfield Army Community Hospital (BACH), located on post, provides initial screening and some diagnostic services. Drive times to BACH are generally short, typically under 15 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the base. This proximity offers a significant advantage for routine screenings and initial consultations.

However, for more specialized care, patients often need to travel off-post. The primary destinations include hospitals and clinics in Clarksville, Tennessee, and Hopkinsville, Kentucky.

* **Clarksville, Tennessee:** The primary route to Clarksville is via Interstate 24 (I-24) or US-41A. Drive times to facilities like Tennova Healthcare – Clarksville can range from 20 to 40 minutes, contingent on traffic, particularly during peak hours. The drive is generally straightforward, but congestion around exits and intersections can impact travel time.

* **Hopkinsville, Kentucky:** Accessing Hopkinsville involves travel on US-41, or US-68. Drive times to facilities such as Jennie Stuart Medical Center, are typically around 20 to 30 minutes. While the roads are generally less congested than those leading to Clarksville, potential delays can arise due to traffic signals and occasional road construction.

The Breast Cancer Score reflects these drive times. Shorter drive times to facilities offering a full spectrum of breast cancer care will contribute to a higher score. The score also considers the availability of parking, which can be a significant factor, particularly for patients undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the 42223 area are limited, impacting healthcare access. The Clarksville Transit System (CTS) provides bus service within Clarksville, but routes directly serving Fort Campbell or providing convenient access to major medical facilities are sparse. The CTS does not extend into Kentucky. This lack of comprehensive public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

While some routes might offer connections near medical facilities, the frequency and travel times can be prohibitive, especially for appointments requiring punctuality, like radiation therapy. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a consideration, with CTS buses equipped with features like ramps and designated seating. However, the overall lack of route coverage significantly diminishes the utility of public transit for breast cancer patients.

The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the limited availability of public transit, assigning a lower value due to its restricted utility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, ride availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, especially those requiring frequent trips for treatment.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs, provide another option. Companies like Logisticare and ModivCare, which often contract with insurance providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be invaluable for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, availability and scheduling requirements can vary, and advance booking is often necessary.

The Breast Cancer Score will consider the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. While these options can improve access, their cost and potential limitations will be factored into the overall score.

**Moving to Fort Campbell: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering a move to Fort Campbell, understanding healthcare access is crucial. While BACH offers on-post medical services, the availability of specialized breast cancer care off-post necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The drive times to Clarksville and Hopkinsville should be factored into the decision-making process.

The availability of ride-sharing services and the potential need for medical transport should also be assessed. Individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations should prioritize locations with convenient access to public transit (if available) or consider the feasibility of relying on ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The Breast Cancer Score should be viewed as a component of a larger assessment, encompassing factors like insurance coverage, the availability of support services, and the overall quality of care at the chosen facilities.

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

The final Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 42223 will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. Shorter drive times to comprehensive breast cancer care facilities will contribute to a higher score. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services will also be positively weighted.

Conversely, the limited availability of public transit will negatively impact the score. The overall score will provide a snapshot of healthcare access, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for individuals navigating breast cancer care in this area.

This analysis aims to provide valuable information for residents of 42223, those considering a move, and healthcare providers. It underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access and the need for continued efforts to improve access to care for all residents, particularly those facing the challenges of breast cancer.