42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.67 percent of residents in 42140 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Medical Center with a distance of 7.86 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Gamaliel, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42140)**

Gamaliel, Kentucky, nestled in Monroe County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" here considers the complexities of transportation, a crucial determinant of timely medical care. This analysis will delve into the available options for residents of 42140, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking to control their blood pressure. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear understanding of the transportation landscape for healthcare access, especially for those contemplating moving to Gamaliel.

The primary challenge in Gamaliel is its rural location. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Glasgow, Kentucky, approximately 30 miles away. This distance translates into a significant commute, heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The most direct route involves taking Kentucky Route 100 (KY-100) north, which then intersects with the Cumberland Parkway. From there, drivers can connect to the Louie B. Nunn Parkway to reach Glasgow. This journey, under ideal conditions, typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

However, this drive time is susceptible to various factors. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can make KY-100 and the connecting highways treacherous, potentially doubling or tripling commute times. Traffic, while generally light in this area, can still cause delays, especially during peak hours or in the vicinity of Glasgow. The reliability of personal vehicles is, therefore, a critical factor in healthcare access for those with hypertension.

Public transportation options are limited in Gamaliel. Monroe County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The nearest public transit options are located in Glasgow, but they do not extend to Gamaliel. This effectively eliminates public transportation as a viable option for routine healthcare appointments. This absence of public transit creates a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or cannot afford the costs associated with owning and maintaining a car. The lack of public transit underscores the dependence on alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Glasgow but their presence in Gamaliel is not guaranteed. Even if available, the cost of a ride-share for a 30-mile journey can be substantial, posing a financial burden for those with chronic health conditions. The availability of ride-sharing services can also be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This further complicates healthcare access for residents of 42140, particularly those who require frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or who cannot drive themselves. However, NEMT services often require advance booking and may have limited availability. The cost of these services can also be a barrier, as they are not always covered by insurance.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Gamaliel, Kentucky, reflects the challenges of transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles for individuals managing hypertension. The long drive times to healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with managing a chronic condition.

For those considering moving to Gamaliel, the transportation landscape should be a primary consideration. Individuals with hypertension must carefully assess their ability to manage the commute to healthcare facilities, considering the potential for delays, costs, and the availability of alternative transportation options. The lack of readily available public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services highlight the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure consistent access to medical care.

The success of hypertension management hinges on consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments. The transportation challenges in Gamaliel underscore the importance of developing a comprehensive plan for healthcare access. This plan should include a reliable vehicle, a backup plan for emergencies, and a clear understanding of the available transportation options.

Furthermore, the local community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for the expansion of public transit, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, or supporting the development of telemedicine programs. Such initiatives would help to mitigate the transportation barriers and improve the quality of life for residents of 42140, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" for Gamaliel, Kentucky, is not merely a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It highlights the importance of transportation as a critical determinant of health outcomes and underscores the need for proactive measures to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need. For those moving to Gamaliel, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being.