41727, Chavies, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 41727, Chavies, Kentucky is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.86 percent of residents in 41727 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hazard Arh Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.21 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in Chavies, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41727)

The journey to effective hypertension management in Chavies, Kentucky (ZIP code 41727) is significantly shaped by transportation. Evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching essential healthcare services is crucial in understanding and addressing the challenges faced by residents managing hypertension, a condition that requires consistent medical attention and medication adherence. This analysis, creating a "Hypertension Score," considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this rural Appalachian community. The goal is to provide a clear understanding for residents and prospective movers, as well as to highlight areas for improvement in healthcare delivery.

The primary factor in our "Hypertension Score" calculation is drive-time. For residents of Chavies, access to specialized medical care and regular check-ups often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Hazard, approximately 15-20 miles away, or in Prestonsburg, about 40-45 miles distant. These distances, while seemingly manageable, are complicated by the winding mountain roads characteristic of the region. Navigating these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly extend travel times and increase the risk of accidents, directly impacting healthcare access.

Residents primarily rely on Kentucky Route 15, a major thoroughfare connecting Chavies to Hazard. This two-lane highway, known for its curves and elevation changes, is often congested during peak hours, further increasing travel times. Another essential route is the Mountain Parkway, a more direct route to Prestonsburg. However, access to the Parkway requires navigating smaller, less-maintained roads from Chavies, adding to the overall travel time and complexity.

The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the average drive-time to the nearest hospitals and clinics, factoring in potential delays due to traffic, weather conditions, and road quality. This score will be weighted to reflect the frequency of required visits, such as routine check-ups, medication refills, and emergency care. A higher score indicates longer travel times and, consequently, reduced healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Chavies are limited. The primary provider is the Kentucky River Area Development District (KRADD). While KRADD offers demand-response transportation services, these services are not always readily available or reliable, particularly for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. The availability of accessible vehicles for individuals with disabilities is another critical factor. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options, including ADA-compliant vehicles, to assess their impact on healthcare access for all residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not widely available in Chavies. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect this limitation, acknowledging the absence of this convenient transportation alternative.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical assistance. The availability and response times of these services are crucial for managing hypertension, especially in emergency situations. The "Hypertension Score" will incorporate data on the availability, response times, and cost of medical transport services, as well as the accessibility of these services for individuals with disabilities.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of healthcare providers in Chavies. The presence of local clinics and primary care physicians can significantly reduce the need for long-distance travel for routine check-ups and medication management. The score will factor in the number of healthcare providers, the range of services offered, and the ease of scheduling appointments. The availability of pharmacies in Chavies is also critical, as it directly impacts medication adherence.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a dynamic measure, reflecting changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and the availability of alternative transportation options. Regular updates will be crucial to ensure the score accurately reflects the evolving healthcare access landscape in Chavies. This dynamic approach will enable residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions and implement effective strategies to improve healthcare access and outcomes for individuals managing hypertension.

The implications of the "Hypertension Score" extend beyond healthcare access. It can also influence economic development, attracting new residents and businesses to Chavies. For individuals considering moving to Chavies, the "Hypertension Score" provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing their health in this community. Understanding the transportation limitations and healthcare resources is crucial for making an informed decision.

The "Hypertension Score" will be presented in a clear and concise format, using a numerical scale and visual aids to communicate the key findings. The score will be accompanied by a detailed analysis of the factors contributing to the score, including drive-times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, medical transport services, and the availability of healthcare providers and pharmacies. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and accessible resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

By providing a clear and comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, the "Hypertension Score" will empower residents of Chavies to proactively manage their health and advocate for improvements in healthcare delivery. The score will also serve as a valuable tool for healthcare providers and policymakers, enabling them to identify areas for improvement and implement targeted interventions to enhance healthcare access and outcomes for individuals managing hypertension in this unique Appalachian community. The ultimate aim is to improve the quality of life for all residents of Chavies, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.