Hypertension Score

40481, Sandgap, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 40481, Sandgap, Kentucky

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 40481, Sandgap, Kentucky is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.25 percent of residents in 40481 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rockcastle County Hospital, Inc. with a distance of 15.70 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 40481, Sandgap, Kentucky

Hypertension Score 38
People Score 53
Provider Score 19
Hospital Score 67
Travel Score 36

Closest Hospital - ROCKCASTLE COUNTY HOSPITAL, INC.

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 40481 Sandgap Kentucky
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.51
1 Car 5.47 5.47 18.75
2 Cars 94.53 94.53 41.78
3 or More Cars 0.00 0.00 36.96

Vehicular Access in 40481, Sandgap, Kentucky

Travel Score Review of 40481, Sandgap, Kentucky

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sandgap, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40481)

Sandgap, Kentucky, nestled within the rolling hills of Jackson County, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The rural landscape, characterized by limited public transportation and vast distances, significantly impacts the ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 40481, evaluating its impact on healthcare access for those with hypertension, and ultimately, assigning a "Hypertension Score" to reflect the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system.

The primary mode of transportation in Sandgap is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on cars and trucks to traverse the winding roads and reach essential services. The closest significant medical facilities are located in McKee (Jackson County), London (Laurel County), and Richmond (Madison County).

Driving to McKee, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, is the most direct route. This journey primarily involves navigating the well-maintained **KY-30**, also known as the Hal Rogers Parkway, which then connects to **KY-399**. However, access to specialized care in McKee is limited, and individuals often require referrals to larger hospitals in London or Richmond.

Traveling to London, a journey of approximately 30-45 minutes, necessitates navigating **KY-30** and then connecting to **I-75 South**. This interstate provides a more rapid, but potentially more stressful, route. Traffic congestion on I-75, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times, impacting the ability of individuals with hypertension to reach appointments promptly.

Reaching Richmond, the furthest option, requires a drive of approximately 60-75 minutes. This route involves taking **KY-30** to **US-421** and then connecting to **I-75 North**. The distance and travel time pose a considerable challenge, especially for those with uncontrolled hypertension requiring frequent monitoring or experiencing acute symptoms.

Public transportation options in Sandgap are severely limited. There is no established local bus system within Jackson County. The closest public transit options are located in London, Kentucky, and are operated by the London-Laurel County Transit Authority. These buses operate on fixed routes, and the limited service may not adequately address the needs of residents in Sandgap, particularly those with mobility limitations. The lack of ADA-compliant features on all buses could pose a significant barrier to access for individuals with physical disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities of London and Richmond, but their presence in Sandgap is sporadic and unreliable. The limited availability and potential surge pricing can make these services cost-prohibitive, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. However, their availability and cost vary. Companies like First Transit and American Medical Response (AMR) may provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the area. These services require advance booking and can be expensive, further compounding the challenges faced by individuals with hypertension.

The remoteness of Sandgap and the limited transportation options create significant barriers to healthcare access. The long travel times to medical facilities, the lack of public transportation, and the unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a challenging environment for managing hypertension.

The ability to maintain consistent medical appointments, access necessary medications, and respond quickly to emergencies is crucial for individuals with hypertension. The transportation limitations in Sandgap can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and potentially life-threatening complications.

Considering the factors discussed, we can assign a "Hypertension Score" to ZIP code 40481. This score reflects the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare services related to hypertension management.

**Hypertension Score:** 4/10

This score indicates a significant challenge in accessing healthcare for individuals with hypertension in Sandgap. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long travel distances, the lack of public transportation, and the limited availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to this low score.

For individuals considering moving to Sandgap, or for current residents, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Careful planning is necessary to ensure consistent access to healthcare. This includes:

* **Prioritizing proximity:** When possible, choosing healthcare providers in McKee can reduce travel times.
* **Exploring alternative transportation:** Investigating medical transportation services and carpooling with neighbors can provide alternative options.
* **Utilizing telehealth:** Embracing telehealth appointments for routine check-ups and medication management can reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Advocating for improved services:** Supporting initiatives to improve public transportation and expand ride-sharing options in the area can benefit the entire community.

The challenges associated with healthcare access in Sandgap highlight the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. Individuals with hypertension must be prepared to navigate the transportation landscape strategically to ensure they receive the care they need to manage their condition effectively. The lack of readily available transportation options underscores the need for community-based solutions and policy changes to improve healthcare access for all residents.

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Health Scores Near 40481, Sandgap, Kentucky

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