40310, Burgin, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 40310, Burgin, Kentucky is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.68 percent of residents in 40310 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The James B. Haggin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.55 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Burgin, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40310)

Understanding the ease with which residents of Burgin, Kentucky (ZIP code 40310) can access healthcare is crucial, particularly for those managing hypertension. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score," considers various transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, ultimately influencing the quality of life for individuals managing this chronic condition. The ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is paramount in controlling hypertension and preventing serious health complications.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Burgin is transportation. Limited public transit, a reliance on personal vehicles, and the relatively rural nature of the area present unique challenges. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the feasibility of reaching essential medical services, including physician offices, pharmacies, and specialist clinics, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services.

Burgin, a small town in Mercer County, is geographically situated near larger population centers offering more comprehensive healthcare facilities. The closest major city is Danville, Kentucky, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **US-127** South. The drive to Lexington, Kentucky, a regional hub for specialized medical care, takes approximately 45-60 minutes, largely dependent on traffic flow, primarily utilizing **US-127** South, connecting to **US-60** West, and then merging onto **US-64** East. These drive times are critical for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups, medication refills, and immediate medical attention in case of a hypertensive crisis.

Public transportation options within Burgin and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The primary provider is the Blue Grass Community Action Partnership (BGCAP), offering demand-response transportation services. These services require advance booking and are designed to serve individuals with disabilities, seniors, and low-income residents. While BGCAP can provide transportation to medical appointments, the limited service hours and potential for delays can be a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension who require timely access to care. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for those with mobility limitations, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lexington and Danville areas, but their presence in Burgin is less consistent. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand, potentially leading to delays and increased costs. For individuals with hypertension, the uncertainty of ride-sharing services can be a source of stress and anxiety, particularly during times of urgent medical need.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments, offer another avenue for healthcare access. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like First Transit and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical transportation in Kentucky. However, availability and cost can vary, and these services may require advance booking, limiting their utility in emergency situations.

The “Hypertension Score” considers the proximity of essential healthcare services. Burgin has limited local healthcare facilities. The nearest pharmacy is likely in Harrodsburg, approximately a 10-minute drive. Physician offices and specialist clinics are primarily located in Danville and Lexington. The distance to these facilities, combined with the transportation challenges, significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

Individuals considering moving to Burgin, especially those managing hypertension, must carefully evaluate their transportation options and healthcare access needs. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates reliable transportation. The limited public transit and ride-sharing options underscore the importance of proactive planning for medical appointments. The potential for delays and the need for advanced booking of medical transportation services should be factored into the decision-making process.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the impact of transportation challenges on medication adherence. Regular medication refills and prompt access to medical care are essential for managing hypertension. The distance to pharmacies and physician offices, coupled with the limitations of transportation options, can hinder medication adherence, potentially leading to uncontrolled hypertension and increased health risks.

The score also reflects the impact of transportation on emergency medical care. In the event of a hypertensive crisis or other medical emergency, the speed and reliability of transportation to the nearest hospital or emergency room are critical. The drive times to Danville and Lexington, combined with potential delays due to traffic or transportation limitations, can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, or remote healthcare, can provide a valuable alternative for individuals with hypertension, allowing for remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management. The availability of reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology are essential for leveraging telehealth services.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a single numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considering all transportation modalities. It acknowledges the unique challenges faced by individuals with hypertension in Burgin, Kentucky. The score highlights the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available transportation options, and considering the potential impact of transportation limitations on healthcare outcomes.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" aims to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access in Burgin, empowering individuals with hypertension to make informed decisions about their healthcare and lifestyle choices. It underscores the critical link between transportation and health, highlighting the need for accessible and reliable transportation options to ensure the well-being of residents in ZIP code 40310.