40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.64 percent of residents in 40047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flaget Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.96 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mount Washington (ZIP Code 40047)

Considering a move to the charming community of Mount Washington, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40047)? This assessment explores healthcare access, specifically focusing on hypertension management, and the ease of **transportation** to necessary medical appointments. We’ll examine the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, providing a nuanced "Hypertension Score" to help you understand the realities of **healthcare access** in this area. This information is crucial for anyone, particularly those with pre-existing conditions, as you weigh the benefits of **moving to Mount Washington**.

Mount Washington, nestled in Bullitt County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and rural charm. However, its location, while appealing to many, presents unique considerations regarding healthcare. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the accessibility of medical facilities equipped to manage hypertension, factoring in **transportation** options, drive times, and the availability of specialized services.

The primary determinant of the score will be the time it takes to reach a healthcare provider. This is measured by both car and public **transportation**. Driving in this area primarily utilizes Interstate 65 (I-65), a major north-south artery, and the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265), which provides access to Louisville and surrounding areas. Local roads, such as Highway 44 (also known as North Bardstown Road) and Highway 155 (also known as Taylorsville Road), are vital for navigating within Mount Washington and connecting to nearby towns.

The drive to the nearest comprehensive medical facilities, such as those in Louisville, will be a significant factor. During peak hours, traffic on I-65 can be congested, potentially adding considerable time to your commute. The distance to Louisville, roughly 20-30 miles, translates to a drive time that can vary from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This travel time is critical for individuals requiring regular check-ups, medication refills, or urgent care related to hypertension.

Public **transportation** options in Mount Washington are limited. The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) provides some service, but its routes are primarily focused on serving Louisville. Route 40, the Shepherdsville-Downtown route, offers a possible connection to healthcare facilities in Louisville, but it requires a transfer and may involve lengthy travel times. This route is the most viable, yet still limited, option for those without personal vehicles.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. TARC buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of accessible parking and building access at healthcare facilities in Louisville is also a factor.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mount Washington. These services offer a more flexible **transportation** option compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, is also a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide and MedRide, provide specialized transport for individuals with medical needs. These services often include door-to-door assistance and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. While they offer convenience, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The proximity of pharmacies is another vital element of **healthcare access**. Mount Washington has several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and local options. The ability to easily access medication refills is essential for managing hypertension.

The availability of specialized healthcare providers, such as cardiologists and endocrinologists, is also important. While Mount Washington has some primary care physicians, access to specialists often requires travel to Louisville. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the distance and ease of access to these specialists.

The score will also factor in the availability of urgent care facilities. While Mount Washington has some urgent care clinics, the ability to quickly access emergency care is crucial. The proximity of hospitals and emergency rooms is a critical component of the overall **healthcare access** assessment.

The "Hypertension Score" will be calculated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest level of **healthcare access**. The score will be based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and an emergency room.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability and frequency of TARC routes, and the ease of access to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability and cost of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Pharmacy Access:** The proximity and accessibility of pharmacies.
* **Specialist Availability:** The distance and ease of access to cardiologists and other specialists.
* **Urgent Care Access:** The proximity and accessibility of urgent care facilities and emergency rooms.

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Mount Washington (ZIP Code 40047) is estimated to be a 6 out of 10. This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** The area offers a reasonable level of access to primary care physicians and pharmacies. Ride-sharing services are available.
* **Weaknesses:** Public **transportation** is limited. Access to specialists and emergency care requires travel to Louisville, which can be time-consuming, especially during peak traffic. The cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** can be a barrier.

For individuals with hypertension, this score indicates that while Mount Washington offers some advantages, careful consideration should be given to the challenges of **transportation** and access to specialized care. Planning for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergencies is crucial. Researching the availability of healthcare providers and **transportation** options before **moving to Mount Washington** is strongly recommended. Evaluate your personal needs, and consider how the available resources align with your health requirements. This detailed assessment provides a realistic view of the **healthcare access** landscape in Mount Washington, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.