42635, Pine Knot, Kentucky COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 42635, Pine Knot, Kentucky is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.57 percent of residents in 42635 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Health Corbin with a distance of 22.11 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42635 (Pine Knot, Kentucky)**

The crisp mountain air of Pine Knot, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42635), might seem idyllic, but for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the reality of healthcare access hinges on the often-challenging landscape of transportation. This write-up aims to provide a COPD Score assessment, meticulously detailing the commute to healthcare facilities, considering various transportation options and their associated challenges, ultimately informing those considering moving to Pine Knot.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of Pine Knot is the McCreary County Health Center. Situated in Stearns, a short drive away, it serves as the cornerstone of local healthcare. However, specialized care and advanced treatments often necessitate travel to larger regional medical centers. The COPD Score will evaluate the feasibility of reaching these facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative transportation methods.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The most common mode of transportation in this rural area is personal vehicles. Reaching the McCreary County Health Center from Pine Knot typically involves a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for individuals with COPD, minimizing exposure to environmental irritants and physical exertion. The route primarily utilizes Kentucky Route 92, a well-maintained two-lane highway.

For more specialized care, the nearest hospitals are located in Somerset, Kentucky, approximately 40 miles away. The journey involves traveling on Kentucky Route 92, merging onto US-27, and finally reaching the facilities. The drive time to Somerset is typically around one hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute presents a greater challenge for COPD patients, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential breathing difficulties during the drive.

Further afield, Lexington, Kentucky, offers a wider range of specialized medical services. The drive to Lexington, covering roughly 120 miles, involves traveling on US-27, merging onto the Cumberland Parkway, and then onto I-75. This journey can take upwards of two and a half hours, posing a considerable hurdle for individuals with COPD. The extended travel time, coupled with potential traffic congestion, necessitates careful consideration of oxygen requirements, medication management, and the overall physical strain on the patient.

Road conditions in the area are generally good, but winter weather can present challenges. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or canceling appointments. This underscores the importance of having backup transportation plans and being prepared for weather-related disruptions.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Pine Knot are limited. The McCreary County Public Transit operates a demand-response service, providing transportation within the county. However, service frequency and availability are limited, and pre-booking is usually required. This service is not specifically designed for medical transportation and may not be suitable for individuals with COPD who require specialized assistance or timely access to healthcare.

The nearest public transit system with more extensive routes is located in Somerset. However, the distance and limited service frequency make it an impractical option for most residents of Pine Knot seeking routine medical care.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. While the McCreary County Public Transit is supposed to be ADA-compliant, its limited resources may affect its ability to provide comprehensive assistance to individuals with COPD. The availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations should be verified before relying on this service.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Pine Knot and the surrounding areas. This lack of ride-sharing options significantly limits transportation choices for individuals with COPD who cannot drive or do not have access to personal vehicles.

Medical transport services are available, but their availability and cost vary. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, especially for appointments outside of regular business hours. Researching and pre-arranging medical transport services is crucial for individuals with COPD who require this type of assistance.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Healthcare access for individuals with COPD in Pine Knot is significantly influenced by transportation limitations. The short commute to the McCreary County Health Center is a positive factor. However, the longer distances to specialized care facilities in Somerset and Lexington pose a considerable challenge.

The lack of reliable public transportation and ride-sharing services further exacerbates the problem. Individuals with COPD who do not drive or lack access to a personal vehicle face significant barriers to accessing necessary medical care.

The availability and cost of medical transport services are critical factors to consider. Pre-planning transportation for medical appointments is essential, and individuals should explore all available options.

**Overall COPD Score Assessment:**

The COPD Score for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP Code 42635 is moderate. While the proximity of the McCreary County Health Center provides convenient access to primary care, the limitations of transportation options, particularly for specialized care, create challenges.

Individuals considering moving to Pine Knot with COPD should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to medical care. They should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the cost and availability of medical transport services.

Living in Pine Knot offers a peaceful lifestyle, but individuals with COPD must recognize the transportation challenges and proactively plan for their healthcare needs. The importance of pre-planning, exploring all available options, and establishing a reliable transportation network cannot be overstated. The success of managing COPD in this environment depends heavily on the individual’s ability to navigate the transportation landscape and ensure timely access to necessary medical care.