42348, Hawesville, Kentucky COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 42348, Hawesville, Kentucky is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.85 percent of residents in 42348 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Owensboro Health Regional Hospital with a distance of 17.19 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hawesville, KY (ZIP Code 42348)

The journey to healthcare in Hawesville, Kentucky, a community nestled along the Ohio River in ZIP code 42348, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, considers the critical aspects of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, providing a detailed picture for those seeking to understand the realities of **moving to Hawesville** or navigating the area with COPD. The goal is to illuminate the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and support services, ultimately impacting the quality of life for residents.

Hawesville, a small town, relies heavily on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The primary arteries for navigating the area are US-60, a major east-west thoroughfare, and KY-144, offering north-south connectivity. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times for those with breathing difficulties. The distance to specialized care, particularly pulmonary specialists and advanced diagnostic facilities, often necessitates travel beyond the immediate town limits.

Drive times are a crucial factor in the COPD Score. The nearest major medical center, Owensboro Health Regional Hospital in Owensboro, KY, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via US-60. This drive, while manageable, can be taxing for individuals with COPD, especially during periods of exacerbation. The potential for increased shortness of breath and anxiety during the drive must be considered. Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available within Hawesville, reducing the need for frequent long-distance trips.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Hawesville. There is no established city bus system. This lack of public **transportation** significantly impacts those who cannot drive due to their COPD symptoms or other mobility issues. Individuals relying on public transit would be at a severe disadvantage. The absence of accessible public **transportation** highlights a critical gap in **healthcare access** for this population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Owensboro, but their presence in Hawesville is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing, particularly for longer trips to Owensboro, can also be a significant financial burden for many.

Medical **transportation** services are available but require careful consideration. Several companies offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding the distance they cover. The availability of NEMT services in Hawesville should be thoroughly researched, including the types of vehicles offered (e.g., wheelchair-accessible vans), the cost structure, and the level of medical support provided during the trip.

Pharmacies are essential for COPD management, and **healthcare access** hinges on timely medication refills. Hawesville has at least one local pharmacy. The availability of prescription refills and over-the-counter medications is generally good, reducing the need for frequent trips to larger pharmacies in Owensboro. However, individuals should ensure their pharmacy carries all necessary medications and consider the potential for delays in receiving specialized medications.

The availability of oxygen therapy and respiratory equipment is another critical factor. Individuals with COPD often require oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, and other equipment. The ability to obtain these items locally or through convenient delivery services is crucial. Researching local medical supply stores and their ability to provide and service respiratory equipment is vital for those **moving to Hawesville** with COPD.

Support services for COPD patients are essential for managing the disease effectively. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, support groups, and educational resources is critical. Investigating the availability of these services in Hawesville and surrounding areas is important. Telehealth services, which provide remote consultations with healthcare providers, can be a valuable resource for individuals with COPD, particularly those with limited mobility.

The COPD Score for Hawesville, KY (42348) reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers some basic **healthcare access** through local clinics and pharmacies, the limitations in **transportation** options pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public **transportation**, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to **healthcare access** for individuals with COPD.

For those **moving to Hawesville** with COPD, careful planning is essential. The following recommendations are crucial. Firstly, assess your ability to drive and the availability of a reliable vehicle. Secondly, research the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services. Thirdly, identify local pharmacies and medical supply stores that can meet your needs. Fourthly, investigate the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs and support groups in the area. Finally, explore the potential of telehealth services to supplement in-person appointments.

The challenges of navigating **transportation** and **healthcare access** in Hawesville, KY (42348) require proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals with COPD. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited **transportation** options necessitate careful consideration of the practical implications of **moving to Hawesville**. Successfully managing COPD in this setting requires a proactive approach to **healthcare access** and a willingness to explore all available resources.