40347, Midway, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 40347, Midway, Kentucky is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.32 percent of residents in 40347 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Georgetown Community Hospital with a distance of 7.13 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 40347**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This is particularly true for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension, where timely and consistent medical attention is crucial. This analysis examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 40347 (Midway, Kentucky), evaluating its impact on healthcare access, specifically for individuals requiring regular hypertension management. We will explore the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Midway, ensuring they understand the realities of healthcare access in this charming Kentucky town.

Midway, nestled in the heart of horse country, presents a unique challenge: balancing rural charm with the necessities of modern healthcare. The primary concern for residents with hypertension is the ability to attend regular appointments, access pharmacy services, and receive emergency care. The "Hypertension Score" is a composite metric, considering factors like travel time, mode of transportation, and availability of resources. A higher score reflects better access, indicating a more favorable environment for managing hypertension.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfare serving Midway is Interstate 64 (I-64), providing a direct route to Lexington, approximately 20 miles east. Travel time to Lexington, the primary hub for specialized medical care, can vary significantly depending on traffic, generally ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. The journey involves navigating I-64, followed by various surface streets within Lexington, such as New Circle Road and Man o' War Boulevard, depending on the specific healthcare facility.

Traveling west on I-64 leads to Frankfort, the state capital, roughly 20 miles away. Frankfort offers some healthcare options, potentially reducing travel time for certain appointments. However, the quality and scope of specialized care are generally greater in Lexington. Local roads like US-60 (Versailles Road) and US-421 provide alternative routes, though these are often slower and more susceptible to traffic congestion. The condition of these roads and the presence of traffic lights can add to travel times, impacting the overall "Hypertension Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Midway are limited. The Lexington Transit Authority (Lextran) does not directly serve Midway. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. Individuals relying on public transit would need to arrange transportation to Lexington, potentially involving multiple transfers and extended travel times. This lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the "Hypertension Score" for residents without alternative transportation.

While Lextran does offer some ADA-accessible buses, the absence of direct routes to Midway means that individuals with disabilities face significant barriers to healthcare access. The absence of public transportation options is a major consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Midway and relying on this mode of transport.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Midway, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. This factor impacts the "Hypertension Score," as ride-sharing is not a consistently reliable or affordable option for all residents.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies like First Transit or private ambulance services, are available but primarily cater to emergency situations or individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles and are not typically used for routine appointments. While essential for specific needs, they do not significantly improve the overall "Hypertension Score" for regular healthcare access.

**Pharmacy Access**

Pharmacy access is another vital component of hypertension management. Midway has several local pharmacies, providing convenient access to medications. However, specialized compounding pharmacies or pharmacies with a wider selection of medications might necessitate travel to Lexington. This aspect impacts the "Hypertension Score," as the availability of medications directly influences the ability to manage hypertension effectively.

**Impact on the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 40347 is moderate. While the proximity to Lexington offers access to comprehensive healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services provides a partial solution, but cost and reliability remain concerns. The presence of local pharmacies is a positive factor.

**Conclusion: Moving to Midway and Healthcare Access**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Midway, a thorough understanding of transportation and healthcare access is crucial. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for careful planning and consideration. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles require proactive strategies.

Those considering moving to Midway should assess their ability to drive or arrange for transportation to medical appointments. Exploring ride-sharing options and ensuring access to pharmacy services are also essential. The "Hypertension Score" can be improved through community initiatives, such as advocating for expanded public transit options or promoting partnerships between local organizations and ride-sharing services.

Ultimately, the ability to successfully manage hypertension in Midway hinges on proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape. This analysis provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access and making informed decisions about moving to this charming Kentucky community.