42413, Hanson, Kentucky COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 42413, Hanson, Kentucky is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.28 percent of residents in 42413 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville with a distance of 5.85 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hanson, KY (ZIP Code 42413)

The sun dips low over the rolling hills of western Kentucky, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. For residents of Hanson, nestled in ZIP code 42413, the beauty of the landscape is often intertwined with the practicalities of daily life, especially when it comes to healthcare access. This assessment focuses on the transportation challenges and opportunities faced by individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in this rural community, providing a "COPD Score" based on accessibility to vital medical services. The goal is to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those considering a move to Hanson, or already living there, and needing to navigate the complexities of COPD management.

Understanding the challenges of COPD in this context requires a close look at **transportation**. The ability to reach healthcare providers, pharmacies, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is paramount for effective disease management. This is particularly true for those with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms that make travel difficult.

The primary arteries of **transportation** in and around Hanson are the roadways. Driving is the dominant mode, and the distances to healthcare facilities are a significant factor. The nearest major hospital, Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital, is approximately 25 miles away, a drive that could take around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route typically involves navigating US-41, a busy north-south thoroughfare, and then transitioning to KY-138, a more rural road. Other healthcare facilities like the Baptist Health Madisonville are about 20 miles away, usually requiring travel on the Western Kentucky Parkway and US-41.

These drives, while manageable for some, pose a challenge for individuals with COPD. The physical exertion of driving, the potential for anxiety related to traffic, and the unpredictable nature of symptoms can make these trips exhausting. The availability of reliable personal vehicles and the financial burden of fuel and vehicle maintenance further complicate the situation.

Public **transportation** options in this area are limited. There is no readily available public bus system that directly serves Hanson. This means residents must rely on personal vehicles, family, friends, or potentially, ride-sharing services. The absence of a robust public transit network significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. It is crucial to note the lack of ADA-compliant features in the limited public transit options, which further restricts access for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern among COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent appointments. Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

Pharmacies are another crucial aspect of healthcare access. The nearest pharmacy is located in the city of Madisonville. The drive time is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The distance and travel time to the pharmacy can be a significant burden for those with COPD, particularly if they need to refill prescriptions frequently or require specialized medications.

The "COPD Score" for Hanson, KY (42413) is therefore a reflection of these factors. The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public **transportation** options, the reliance on personal vehicles, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the potential cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. The score would be positively influenced by the presence of nearby healthcare facilities, the availability of pharmacies, and the potential for support from family and friends.

For individuals considering **moving to Hanson**, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully assessing **healthcare access** needs. Those with COPD should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and support networks. They should also investigate the availability and affordability of **transportation** options, including ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

The challenges of **healthcare access** in Hanson are not insurmountable. However, they require careful planning and proactive management. Individuals with COPD can improve their quality of life by understanding the **transportation** landscape, establishing strong relationships with healthcare providers, and leveraging available resources. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and living arrangements, ensuring they can effectively manage their COPD and live fulfilling lives in this rural Kentucky community.