42411, Fredonia, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42411, Fredonia, Kentucky is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.95 percent of residents in 42411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crittenden Community Hospital with a distance of 8.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fredonia, KY (ZIP Code 42411)

The decision to move to a new town, especially when considering healthcare access, is a significant one. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for Fredonia, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42411), focusing on transportation options to medical facilities equipped for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, aiming to offer a comprehensive picture for potential residents.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach it. In Fredonia, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is personal vehicle. The closest comprehensive breast cancer care, including mammography, diagnosis, and treatment, is located in Princeton, KY, approximately 10 miles away. This journey is primarily via US-62 West, a well-maintained highway that generally provides a smooth drive. Depending on traffic and the time of day, the drive usually takes around 15-20 minutes.

For more specialized care, such as surgical oncology or radiation therapy, residents might need to travel further. The nearest major medical center offering these services is often in Madisonville, KY, about 40 miles away. The most direct route involves taking US-62 West to the Pennyrile Parkway (also known as the Western Kentucky Parkway) East. This interstate-quality highway significantly reduces travel time, resulting in a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Further afield, residents might seek care in Evansville, Indiana, a city with more extensive cancer treatment options. This journey involves traveling north on US-62 West, then taking the US-41 North. The drive is approximately 70 miles and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. While a longer commute, it offers access to a broader range of specialists and treatment modalities.

Public transportation options in Fredonia are limited. The Caldwell County Transit System provides demand-response transportation, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this service is available within Caldwell County, including Fredonia, its availability and suitability for regular medical appointments, particularly for those undergoing treatment, are questionable. The system’s accessibility features, including ADA compliance, are essential for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the scheduling requirements and potential for delays could pose challenges for time-sensitive medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Princeton and Madisonville areas, though their presence in Fredonia itself may be inconsistent. This means that securing a ride for medical appointments could be challenging, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The availability of ride-sharing services should be confirmed prior to any move.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another consideration. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability should be confirmed in advance. Researching local providers and understanding their service areas, pricing, and insurance coverage is crucial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Fredonia, KY, is therefore a nuanced assessment. While the proximity to Princeton offers relatively easy access to basic diagnostic services, the need for more specialized care necessitates longer travel times to Madisonville or Evansville. The limitations of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services emphasize the importance of personal vehicle ownership or the need to arrange for medical transport.

Moving to Fredonia requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Prospective residents should assess their individual healthcare needs and mobility limitations when evaluating their healthcare access. The availability of support networks, such as family or friends who can provide transportation, is also a critical factor.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Fredonia is not a static number but a reflection of the complex interplay between location, transportation, and healthcare needs. It serves as a starting point for a deeper investigation into healthcare access, encouraging potential residents to proactively explore their options and make informed decisions. The choice to live in Fredonia, or any town, is a personal one, and understanding the realities of healthcare access is a crucial component of that decision.