The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 40346, Means, Kentucky is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
61.49 percent of residents in 40346 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Joseph Mount Sterling with a distance of 11.52 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 40346, Means, Kentucky
Hypertension Score | 15 |
---|---|
People Score | 36 |
Provider Score | 13 |
Hospital Score | 69 |
Travel Score | 17 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 40346 | Means | Kentucky |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 3.87 | 3.87 | 2.51 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.75 |
2 Cars | 58.06 | 58.06 | 41.78 |
3 or More Cars | 38.06 | 38.06 | 36.96 |
Vehicular Access in 40346, Means, Kentucky
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 40346
The pursuit of health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is profoundly influenced by the ease with which one can access necessary medical care. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 40346, meticulously examines the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by residents in their journey to maintain optimal cardiovascular health. This score considers the time, cost, and convenience of reaching essential medical services.
40346, a predominantly rural area, presents unique transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, with public transit options limited. This reliance dictates that the quality of roads and the availability of ride-sharing services are critical factors in determining healthcare access. For those managing hypertension, timely access to medication refills, regular check-ups, and potential emergency care is paramount. Delays in these areas can have severe consequences.
**Roadways and Drive Times:**
The primary artery for movement within and outside 40346 is US-60, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east towards Lexington, the nearest major city with comprehensive healthcare facilities, typically involves a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive is often complicated by the presence of local traffic, particularly during peak hours. The winding nature of US-60 in some areas can also contribute to longer travel times.
Alternatively, residents might consider traveling west on US-60 to access healthcare in smaller towns. However, the range of specialists and advanced medical services may be limited compared to Lexington. Secondary roads, such as KY-1958 and KY-1268, offer alternative routes, but these are generally slower and less well-maintained, adding to the travel time and potentially increasing the risk of accidents. These roads can be particularly challenging during inclement weather, further impacting healthcare access.
**Public Transit:**
Public transportation options in 40346 are notably scarce. The Lexington Transit Authority (Lextran) operates a limited service, but its routes rarely extend into the immediate vicinity of 40346. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of accessible public transportation is a major impediment to healthcare access in this area.
ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating, are crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited reach of public transit in 40346 means these features are largely irrelevant. The absence of reliable public transit exacerbates the challenges faced by those managing hypertension, as it can be difficult for them to get to appointments.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lexington area, but their presence in 40346 is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be costly and unreliable, particularly for those with limited financial resources. The unpredictability of ride-sharing availability can create anxiety for patients managing hypertension, who may need to reschedule appointments if transportation is unavailable.
Medical transport services, like MedTrans or First Medical Transport, offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which is not always feasible in emergency situations.
**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**
The "Hypertension Score" for 40346 reflects the complex interplay of these transportation factors. The score considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, and the cost and reliability of transportation options. A lower score indicates greater healthcare access, while a higher score reflects significant challenges.
The lack of robust public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a higher "Hypertension Score" for 40346. This score suggests that residents face significant hurdles in accessing timely and affordable healthcare, potentially impacting their ability to effectively manage their hypertension.
**Moving to Means:**
To improve the "Hypertension Score" and enhance healthcare access, several strategies are necessary. Investing in improved road infrastructure, including widening US-60 and improving the conditions of secondary roads, can reduce drive times and improve safety. Expanding public transit options, even with limited routes, could benefit those without personal vehicles. Encouraging ride-sharing services to operate more consistently in the area, perhaps through incentives, could also improve access.
Furthermore, promoting telehealth services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication management. Providing financial assistance for transportation costs, particularly for low-income residents, can also improve healthcare access.
Finally, community outreach programs that educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources are essential. These programs should focus on providing information about ride-sharing services, medical transport, and the availability of telehealth options.
By addressing these challenges and implementing these strategies, 40346 can improve its "Hypertension Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension and live healthy lives. The ultimate goal is to create a system where transportation is not a barrier to healthcare, but rather a means to it.
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