41835, Mc Roberts, Kentucky COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 41835, Mc Roberts, Kentucky is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.10 percent of residents in 41835 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Whitesburg Arh Hospital with a distance of 10.20 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mc Roberts, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41835)

The crisp mountain air of Mc Roberts, Kentucky, in ZIP code 41835, offers a certain serenity, but for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the very landscape that provides beauty can also present significant challenges to accessing healthcare. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, explores the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within this specific area, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for those living with COPD or considering moving to Mc Roberts. The goal is to illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare system, highlighting potential obstacles and offering insights to improve the quality of life for individuals with respiratory conditions.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the ease and reliability of **transportation** to medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and pharmacies. In Mc Roberts, a rural community nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, this becomes a significant hurdle. The rugged terrain and limited infrastructure impact **healthcare access** considerably. The COPD Score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. Each factor is evaluated to provide a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Mc Roberts is generally via US-119, a winding two-lane highway that snakes its way through the mountains. Driving to Whitesburg, the county seat and a central hub for medical services, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. However, this drive can be significantly impacted by weather, including heavy rain, snow, and fog, which are common in the region. The road conditions on US-119 can be treacherous during these times, potentially increasing travel time and posing safety risks for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Further healthcare options, including specialized pulmonary care, may necessitate travel to Pikeville, Kentucky, or even Lexington, Kentucky. The drive to Pikeville, using US-119 and then KY-80, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. The trip to Lexington, a larger metropolitan area with more extensive medical facilities, involves a drive of approximately 3-4 hours, primarily utilizing the Mountain Parkway and I-64. These longer distances, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, can be particularly taxing for individuals with COPD.

Secondary roads, such as KY-343 and KY-1441, provide alternative routes, but they are often narrower, more winding, and may have less reliable maintenance, especially during inclement weather. These roads may also lack adequate shoulders or sidewalks, making it difficult for individuals with mobility issues to navigate safely.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Mc Roberts and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Kentucky River Area Development District (KRADD), which offers demand-response transportation services. These services require advance booking and are often subject to availability. While KRADD may provide transportation to medical appointments, the service may not be readily available for urgent care needs or for accessing specialized services outside of the immediate area.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles within the KRADD fleet is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the frequency and reliability of these accessible services can vary. It is essential for individuals with COPD to inquire about the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and to book their transportation well in advance. The limited hours of operation and potential for delays associated with demand-response transit can further complicate **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Mc Roberts or the immediate surrounding areas. This leaves individuals with COPD reliant on personal vehicles, family members, or medical transport services for their transportation needs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available but can be expensive. These services are typically reserved for individuals who are unable to drive or who require assistance with mobility. The availability of NEMT services may also be limited, and advance booking is often required. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes or with limited insurance coverage.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The primary healthcare provider in the area is the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) Hospital. This facility offers a range of medical services, including primary care, emergency care, and some specialty services. However, the availability of specialized pulmonary care and pulmonary rehabilitation services may be limited. Individuals with COPD may need to travel to larger medical centers in Pikeville or Lexington for specialized treatment.

The availability of pharmacies and durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers is also a crucial factor in **healthcare access**. While pharmacies are available in Whitesburg, the availability of specific medications or DME may be limited. Individuals with COPD may need to travel to larger pharmacies in Pikeville or Lexington to obtain the necessary supplies.

**Moving to Mc Roberts with COPD: Considerations:**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Mc Roberts, a thorough assessment of the available transportation options and healthcare resources is essential. The following factors should be carefully considered:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** The distance to medical facilities, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and pharmacies, should be a primary concern.
* **Transportation Reliability:** The reliability of transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, and medical transport services, should be evaluated.
* **Weather Conditions:** The impact of weather conditions on road travel and access to healthcare should be considered.
* **Financial Resources:** The cost of transportation, including gas, maintenance, and medical transport services, should be factored into the budget.
* **Support Network:** The availability of family members, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation and support should be assessed.

**Conclusion:**

The COPD Score for Mc Roberts, Kentucky (41835) reveals a challenging landscape for individuals managing COPD. The limited transportation options, the rugged terrain, and the distance to specialized medical services pose significant obstacles to **healthcare access**. While the community offers a serene environment, individuals with COPD must carefully consider the practical challenges of accessing healthcare. Thorough planning, reliance on support networks, and proactive engagement with healthcare providers are essential for navigating the complexities of **transportation** and ensuring the best possible quality of life. The decision to move to Mc Roberts with COPD should be made with a clear understanding of these challenges and a commitment to proactively addressing them.