42164, Scottsville, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 42164, Scottsville, Kentucky is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.84 percent of residents in 42164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Medical Center At Scottsville with a distance of 2.10 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42164**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This write-up examines the transportation landscape in Scottsville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42164), focusing on its impact on residents managing hypertension. We will explore the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assess their feasibility for individuals seeking timely medical care. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Scottsville, as it offers insights into the practicalities of healthcare access.

Navigating Scottsville and the surrounding areas often necessitates a personal vehicle. The town is served primarily by US-31E, a major north-south artery that connects Scottsville to Bowling Green and points north. KY-100 provides an east-west route, linking Scottsville to Tompkinsville and Glasgow. These highways, while offering relatively straightforward access, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. The rural nature of the area also means that distances to healthcare facilities can be significant, adding to the challenge.

Drive times to healthcare providers in the region vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The closest hospital, The Medical Center at Scottsville, is conveniently located within the town. However, specialized care or consultations with certain specialists may require travel to larger medical centers in Bowling Green or Glasgow. A trip to Bowling Green, approximately 30 miles north via US-31E, could take around 45 minutes to an hour, assuming normal traffic. A journey to Glasgow, roughly 25 miles east via KY-100, might take a similar amount of time. These drive times are crucial considerations for individuals managing hypertension, where consistent and timely access to medication and monitoring is paramount.

Public transportation options in Scottsville are limited. The Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) provides demand-response transit services, including door-to-door transportation, but its availability and scheduling may not always align with the needs of individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. These services require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, making them less suitable for urgent medical needs or routine appointments requiring precise timing. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that must be carefully considered when relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Scottsville, but their presence is not as consistent or widespread as in larger urban areas. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in areas outside the town center. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare needs may prove financially unsustainable for some residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are available in the area. These services often offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and can provide assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can vary depending on the distance traveled and the level of care required. Assessing the availability, cost, and reliability of medical transportation services is essential for individuals with hypertension who may have difficulty driving or using other forms of transportation.

Healthcare access is a complex issue, especially in rural communities. The ability to reach healthcare providers in a timely and efficient manner is crucial for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Factors such as distance, traffic, and the availability of transportation alternatives significantly impact the ability of residents to receive the care they need. For individuals considering moving to Scottsville, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential.

The healthcare infrastructure in Scottsville includes The Medical Center at Scottsville, offering primary care and some specialized services. However, access to specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Bowling Green or Glasgow. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is critical for effective hypertension management. Residents may also need to travel for diagnostic tests, such as echocardiograms or kidney function tests, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation.

The availability of pharmacies is also a critical factor. Ensuring timely access to medication is essential for managing hypertension. Scottsville has local pharmacies, and larger pharmacies are available in nearby cities. The convenience of pharmacy locations and the ease of obtaining prescriptions are important considerations for individuals managing hypertension.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for transportation in ZIP Code 42164 reflects the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access. While the presence of a local hospital and pharmacies is a positive factor, the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to specialized care pose significant hurdles. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative options, but their reliability and cost must be carefully considered.

For individuals with hypertension, the following recommendations are crucial. First, assess the availability and reliability of personal transportation. Second, explore alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing or medical transportation, and determine their cost and availability. Third, understand the location and accessibility of healthcare providers, including specialists and pharmacies. Finally, consider the potential impact of traffic and weather conditions on travel times.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Scottsville presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. While the town offers basic healthcare services, access to specialized care may require travel. A thorough understanding of the available transportation options, including their limitations and costs, is essential for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access. For those considering moving to Scottsville, a careful assessment of these factors is crucial for making an informed decision that supports their health and well-being. The ability to navigate the transportation network effectively is a key determinant of healthcare access, and ultimately, the quality of life for residents of ZIP Code 42164.