41723, Busy, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 41723, Busy, Kentucky is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.32 percent of residents in 41723 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hazard Arh Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.86 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hazard, KY (ZIP Code 41723)

The diagnosis of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a critical health marker. Effective management hinges on consistent access to healthcare, including routine check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Hazard, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41723), evaluating its impact on residents’ ability to access necessary healthcare services and ultimately, manage their hypertension. We will assess the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure, offering a nuanced understanding of the barriers and pathways to optimal health within this community.

The geographical reality of Hazard, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, significantly influences transportation options. The terrain necessitates reliance on roadways, creating unique hurdles for those seeking medical care. The primary arteries for movement are the Hal Rogers Parkway, also known as the Mountain Parkway, and the US-15 and KY-15 highways. These roadways, while connecting Hazard to surrounding areas, can be subject to weather-related closures and traffic delays, particularly during the winter months or periods of heavy rainfall.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The primary hospital in the area is the Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center. A resident living in the heart of Hazard might expect a drive time of less than ten minutes to this facility. However, residents in more remote areas, perhaps along the North Fork Kentucky River or in the surrounding hollows, could face drive times exceeding 30 minutes, especially if navigating winding, narrow roads. These longer travel times can be detrimental, particularly in urgent medical situations or for individuals with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Hazard are limited. The primary provider is the Kentucky River Area Development District (KRADD), which operates a demand-response system. This service, while providing essential transportation for those with disabilities, seniors, and low-income individuals, is not a fixed-route system. Riders must schedule rides in advance, and availability can be constrained, especially during peak hours or for appointments requiring specific timeframes. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, potentially limiting their access to routine medical care and medication refills. ADA accessibility is available, but requires scheduling.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Hazard. This absence creates a significant gap in transportation options, particularly for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. The lack of these services further exacerbates the challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare access, particularly for those who need to travel to appointments outside of the immediate Hazard area.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients requiring non-emergency transport, offer a potential solution. Companies like Rural Transportation Services and other local providers may offer transportation to and from medical appointments. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations, those who are unable to drive, or those who require assistance during their journey. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and costs may be a barrier for some residents.

The healthcare access landscape in Hazard is also impacted by the availability of healthcare providers. While the Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center provides a range of services, including primary care, specialists, and emergency care, residents may need to travel outside of the immediate area for certain specialized treatments or consultations. This necessitates longer travel times and increased transportation costs, further complicating the management of chronic conditions like hypertension.

The socioeconomic factors within ZIP Code 41723 also influence healthcare access. Poverty rates in the area are high, and many residents lack health insurance. This combination can create significant barriers to accessing healthcare, including the inability to afford transportation costs, medication, and medical services. Addressing these socioeconomic disparities is crucial to improving healthcare outcomes for residents with hypertension.

Moving to Busy, or any area with a higher concentration of medical facilities, may seem like a solution. However, it is important to consider the factors that influence the decision to move. The cost of living, the availability of employment opportunities, and the proximity to family and friends all play a role. Moving to a new location can also disrupt established social support networks, which are essential for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The hypertension score in Hazard, KY (ZIP Code 41723) is influenced by several factors. The reliance on roadways, the limited public transportation options, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transportation services all contribute to the challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare access. The geographical isolation of the area, coupled with socioeconomic factors, further exacerbates these challenges.

Improving healthcare access in Hazard requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including expanding the KRADD system, could significantly improve access to healthcare for those without personal vehicles. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation options could also be beneficial. Addressing the socioeconomic disparities in the area, including increasing access to health insurance and providing financial assistance for transportation costs, is also essential.

Furthermore, expanding the availability of telehealth services could help to bridge the gap in healthcare access. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. Promoting patient education and self-management strategies for hypertension can also empower residents to take control of their health.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Hazard, Kentucky, presents significant challenges for residents seeking to manage their hypertension effectively. While the Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center provides essential services, the limited transportation options, socioeconomic factors, and geographical challenges create barriers to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. By investing in transportation infrastructure, addressing socioeconomic disparities, and promoting telehealth and patient education, we can improve healthcare access and outcomes for residents of Hazard, ultimately enabling them to live healthier lives.