42461, Uniontown, Kentucky COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 42461, Uniontown, Kentucky is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.12 percent of residents in 42461 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Methodist Hospital Union County with a distance of 9.40 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Uniontown, KY (ZIP Code 42461)

Relocating to Uniontown, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42461), presents a unique set of considerations, especially for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This assessment, a "COPD Score," delves into the critical aspect of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing residents with respiratory conditions. The goal is to inform potential residents about the practicality of **moving to Uniontown**, weighing the accessibility of medical resources against the limitations of its rural setting.

The cornerstone of this evaluation is the drive time to the nearest hospitals and specialized respiratory care centers. Uniontown, nestled in rural Henderson County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The primary route to Henderson, approximately 15 miles away, is via KY-136, a two-lane highway. Travel time, under normal conditions, averages 20-30 minutes. The drive offers a scenic route, but its winding nature and potential for slow-moving farm equipment can extend travel times, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather.

The primary destination for healthcare in Henderson is Methodist Health, a full-service hospital offering a range of specialties, including pulmonology. The drive to Methodist Health from Uniontown, using KY-136, is generally straightforward. However, in the event of an emergency, the time factor becomes paramount. The ambulance service, provided by Henderson County Emergency Medical Services, is readily available, but the response time and the subsequent transport to the hospital are crucial considerations for COPD patients.

Further afield, the University of Louisville Hospital, a renowned center for pulmonary care, is roughly 100 miles away. The journey involves navigating I-64 East, a major interstate highway. The drive time, approximately two hours, presents a significant challenge for individuals with breathing difficulties. This distance necessitates careful planning for routine appointments and potential hospitalizations. The complexity of this long-distance travel underscores the importance of local healthcare options.

Public **transportation** options in Uniontown and Henderson County are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the immediate vicinity. This lack of public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their condition. The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transport, such as ride-sharing services.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Henderson, but their presence in Uniontown is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in the evenings. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity for COPD patients requiring frequent medical appointments or emergency care. The reliability of ride-sharing services needs to be carefully considered when evaluating the feasibility of **moving to Uniontown**.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including Rural Metro Ambulance and AMR (American Medical Response). These services provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services are available, their cost can be a significant factor, and pre-booking is often required.

Accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with COPD. The availability of ADA-compliant **transportation** is crucial. While medical transport services typically offer accessible vehicles, the lack of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape independently or with minimal assistance is a key factor in determining the suitability of Uniontown for COPD patients.

The healthcare landscape in Uniontown and Henderson County includes local clinics and primary care physicians. These facilities offer essential services, including routine check-ups, medication management, and basic respiratory care. However, access to specialized pulmonologists and advanced respiratory therapies requires travel to Henderson or, in some cases, Louisville. The availability of home healthcare services in Uniontown can also be a significant advantage, providing in-home support and reducing the need for frequent travel.

Emergency medical services in Uniontown are provided by the Henderson County Emergency Medical Services. Their response times and the quality of care provided are crucial for COPD patients. The proximity of the hospital in Henderson is a positive factor, but the effectiveness of the emergency response system is paramount. The availability of oxygen and other life-saving equipment in ambulances is a critical consideration.

The **transportation** challenges in Uniontown necessitate careful planning and consideration for individuals with COPD. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to **healthcare access**. The distance to specialized care centers and the need for reliable **transportation** services underscore the importance of pre-planning and proactive healthcare management.

When considering **moving to Uniontown**, individuals with COPD must carefully assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape. The availability of reliable **transportation** to medical appointments, the proximity of emergency services, and the access to specialized respiratory care are critical factors. The "COPD Score" for Uniontown, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors, highlighting both the challenges and the potential solutions for managing COPD in this rural setting.

The "COPD Score" for Uniontown, KY (ZIP Code 42461) is a nuanced assessment. While the proximity of Methodist Health in Henderson offers a degree of **healthcare access**, the limitations of public **transportation**, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. The score is tempered by the availability of medical transport services and the presence of local clinics. For individuals with COPD, careful consideration of these factors is essential when deciding whether **moving to Uniontown** aligns with their healthcare needs.