40350, Moorefield, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 40350, Moorefield, Kentucky is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 40350 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fleming County Hospital with a distance of 11.37 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moorefield, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40350)

Considering a move to Moorefield, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40350)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" focusing on **healthcare access** for individuals managing hypertension, a chronic condition requiring consistent medical attention and medication. The score evaluates **transportation** options available to residents, considering the critical need for timely and reliable access to healthcare facilities. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone prioritizing their health when **moving to Moorefield**.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment but a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. Each category contributes to the overall score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

Moorefield, nestled in rural Kentucky, relies heavily on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US-60, connecting to Winchester and Lexington, and KY-11, offering a route to Mount Sterling. Drive times significantly impact the Hypertension Score.

For routine check-ups and medication refills, residents typically utilize local clinics or the University of Kentucky HealthCare's outreach clinic in Mount Sterling. A trip to Mount Sterling via KY-11 is generally a manageable 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Accessing Winchester, approximately 30-40 minutes via US-60, expands healthcare options, including specialized care.

However, the Hypertension Score reflects the potential challenges. Inclement weather, common in Kentucky, can make driving conditions hazardous, increasing travel times and potentially delaying access to critical care. Further, the absence of major highways directly serving Moorefield means longer travel distances to larger hospitals in Lexington, potentially exceeding an hour in peak traffic. This extended travel time negatively impacts the score, particularly during emergencies.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** in Moorefield is limited. The Blue Grass Area Development District (BGADD) provides demand-response **transportation** services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While BGADD offers door-to-door service, it’s not a fixed-route system.

Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. BGADD vehicles are ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for wheelchair users. However, the on-demand nature of the service necessitates advance booking, potentially making it unsuitable for urgent medical needs.

The availability of public **transportation** significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. The lack of frequent, readily accessible public transit lowers the score, especially for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive. Reliance on demand-response services requires careful planning and can be less reliable than a fixed-route system.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have limited presence in Moorefield. Their availability is sporadic and may not be consistently accessible, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliable access significantly lowers the Hypertension Score.

Medical **transportation** services are essential for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) in the region. These services typically provide door-to-door service for appointments and other medical needs.

The availability and cost of NEMT services contribute to the Hypertension Score. While these services offer a crucial lifeline, their cost can be a significant barrier for some residents. The reliability of these services is also crucial. Delays or cancellations can disrupt medical appointments and medication schedules, negatively impacting the score.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score is a composite assessment reflecting the ease of accessing healthcare in Moorefield. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** options.

The score acknowledges the limitations of rural healthcare access. While local clinics and the outreach clinic in Mount Sterling provide essential services, the limited availability of specialized care and the reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** contribute to a lower score.

The lack of robust public transit and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further diminish the score. The reliance on NEMT services adds a layer of complexity, considering cost and reliability.

The Hypertension Score for Moorefield is moderately impacted. While local healthcare options exist, the limitations in **transportation** options, especially for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility challenges, present significant hurdles. Residents must carefully consider these factors when **moving to Moorefield** and managing their hypertension.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Individuals with hypertension considering **moving to Moorefield** should prioritize several factors. First, assess their ability to drive and maintain a reliable vehicle. Second, investigate the availability and cost of NEMT services in the area. Third, establish a relationship with a local healthcare provider and understand the referral process for specialized care.

Planning and preparation are essential for managing hypertension in Moorefield. Regular communication with healthcare providers, medication management strategies, and a backup **transportation** plan are crucial for ensuring consistent access to care.

The Hypertension Score highlights the importance of proactive healthcare management. While Moorefield offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of accessing healthcare necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is paramount for individuals prioritizing their health when **moving to Moorefield**.