40313, Clearfield, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 40313, Clearfield, Kentucky is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.74 percent of residents in 40313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Claire Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.75 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 40313**

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. In Clearfield, Kentucky, ZIP code 40313, this access is significantly impacted by transportation infrastructure. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examines the commute to healthcare facilities, focusing on the transportation options available to residents and their potential influence on managing hypertension, a condition often exacerbated by barriers to care.

The primary challenge in 40313 is its rural character. Clearfield, nestled within Rowan County, is not a densely populated area. This geographic reality profoundly shapes transportation options, making healthcare access a complex issue. Residents face limited choices, especially when considering the specific needs of individuals managing hypertension, who require consistent medical attention and medication refills.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The most common mode of transportation in Clearfield is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the road network. The nearest significant healthcare provider is St. Claire HealthCare in Morehead, approximately 15 to 20 minutes away, depending on traffic and the specific route. The primary route involves navigating Kentucky Route 32, a vital artery connecting Clearfield to Morehead. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying appointments.

Alternatively, residents might opt for Kentucky Route 59, which provides a more scenic, albeit potentially slower, route. The condition of these roads is crucial. Poor road maintenance, potholes, and lack of adequate lighting can pose safety risks, particularly for those with health conditions or those driving at night. The distance itself can be a deterrent. The time spent commuting to appointments can be a significant burden, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those who experience fatigue.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in 40313 are limited. Rowan County offers a demand-response public transit system, operated by the Rowan County Fiscal Court. This system provides curb-to-curb service, requiring advance booking. While this can be a valuable resource, it is not a fixed-route system, which means travel times can be unpredictable.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these vehicles is a critical factor. Individuals with mobility issues, who may be particularly vulnerable to complications from hypertension, need reliable and accessible transportation. The availability of wheelchair lifts, securement systems, and trained drivers is paramount. The system's operational hours and the need for pre-booking can also pose challenges, especially for those requiring urgent care or having unexpected medical needs.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Clearfield. This significantly limits transportation choices. Residents are often reliant on family, friends, or the county's transit system. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, are an option, but they can be costly.

Companies like MedTrans or First Medical Transportation may provide transport. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with limited financial resources. The lack of readily available ride-sharing options puts additional pressure on the limited resources available.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for 40313 is directly affected by these transportation limitations. The score reflects the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, including regular check-ups, medication management, and specialist appointments. A lower score suggests a greater challenge in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for those managing hypertension.

The lack of diverse transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited public transit services contribute to a lower score. The longer commute times, potential traffic delays, and the absence of ride-sharing services all create barriers to care.

**Moving to Clearfield: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

For individuals considering moving to Clearfield, particularly those managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of transportation limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in commute times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential costs of medical transportation.

Before moving, it is advisable to research local healthcare providers, assess their accessibility, and determine the availability of transportation services. This proactive approach can help individuals make informed decisions and ensure they can maintain consistent access to care.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 40313 requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in the Rowan County public transit system is essential. This could involve increasing the number of vehicles, expanding operational hours, and improving the frequency of service.

Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Encouraging the development of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, can help bridge the gap in healthcare access.

Finally, promoting community awareness about available transportation options and providing assistance to residents in navigating the system is critical. By addressing these challenges, Clearfield can improve its "Hypertension Score" and create a healthier community for all. The integration of these efforts will improve transportation, healthcare access, and promote a healthier environment for those moving to Clearfield.