42328, Centertown, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42328, Centertown, Kentucky is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.36 percent of residents in 42328 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 6.18 miles from the area.

Here's a draft of a "Breast Cancer Score" write-up for ZIP code 42328, focusing on transportation and healthcare access:

**Breast Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Centertown, KY (ZIP Code 42328)**

Relocating to a new area, particularly when considering healthcare needs, requires careful evaluation. For residents of Centertown, Kentucky (ZIP code 42328), understanding the ease of access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is paramount. This assessment analyzes the transportation options available, directly impacting the "Breast Cancer Score" for this community. The ability to reach crucial medical appointments without undue stress is a significant factor in overall well-being and treatment adherence.

Centertown, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting influences the availability of various transportation modes. While the town itself may be quiet, the necessity of navigating to larger medical centers in surrounding areas necessitates a thorough examination of available options. This analysis will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Centertown residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The closest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in larger cities like Owensboro and Bowling Green. The drive to Owensboro, home to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, typically involves traveling along US-231 North. The journey, covering approximately 30 miles, can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Owensboro Health offers comprehensive cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment options.

For access to more specialized care, residents might consider traveling to Bowling Green. The route involves taking the Western Kentucky Parkway (WK Pkwy) East, covering approximately 70 miles. The drive time can range from one hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. Bowling Green houses facilities like the Medical Center, which provides advanced cancer treatment options. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly affect these travel times, potentially delaying or complicating access to care.

Smaller towns like Hartford, located a short distance from Centertown, may offer limited medical services, including primary care physicians who can provide initial breast cancer screenings. These locations can be reached via local roads, such as KY-69 and KY-144. While these shorter trips may be convenient for routine checkups, they may not offer the specialized care required for diagnosis and treatment.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Centertown and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no established bus system directly serving Centertown. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or face financial constraints.

While there might be limited demand-response transportation services available through the state, these services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. Furthermore, these services may not have the capacity to accommodate the specific needs of cancer patients, such as the need for frequent appointments or transportation of medical equipment. The absence of readily available public transit significantly lowers the "Breast Cancer Score" for Centertown residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Owensboro and Bowling Green areas, but their availability in Centertown itself is less certain. The reliability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer an alternative. These services, like those provided by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come at a higher cost than other transportation options. The availability of these services in Centertown should be investigated, as their presence directly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score."

**ADA Accessibility:**

For individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing cancer treatment, ADA-compliant transportation is crucial. This encompasses vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts, accessible seating, and trained drivers. The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options in Centertown and the surrounding areas should be investigated, as it directly affects the "Breast Cancer Score."

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

While specific medical transport brands may vary, it's essential to research providers operating in the area. Some national providers, like American Medical Response (AMR) or local ambulance services, may offer medical transportation services. Researching local options and their ADA compliance is a vital step.

**Impact on the "Breast Cancer Score":**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Centertown, KY (42328) is significantly impacted by the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing, and the potentially high cost of medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

These factors can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced treatment adherence, and increased stress for patients. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options lowers the "Breast Cancer Score," highlighting the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and services to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents.

**Moving to Centertown and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering a move to Centertown, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Prospective residents, especially those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services.

It is advisable to research the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing care. This research should be a key component of the decision-making process, as it directly impacts the quality of life and overall well-being of individuals and families.

In conclusion, while Centertown offers the charm of a small town, the challenges of healthcare access, particularly regarding transportation, must be carefully considered. The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects the need for improved transportation options and increased awareness of available resources to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.