42348, Hawesville, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 42348, Hawesville, Kentucky is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.85 percent of residents in 42348 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Owensboro Health Regional Hospital with a distance of 17.19 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hawesville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42348)**

The quaint river town of Hawesville, Kentucky, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, tailored to ZIP code 42348, explores the transportation landscape and its impact on obtaining timely and effective medical care, a critical factor for those considering moving to Hawesville. Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount in assessing the Hypertension Score, a measure of how easily residents can access the medical resources needed to manage this chronic condition.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the availability of medical facilities. Hawesville itself, while charming, has limited direct healthcare options. The primary healthcare provider within the immediate vicinity is Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center in Leitchfield, Kentucky, approximately 45 miles away. This necessitates reliance on transportation to reach specialized care, diagnostic services, and regular check-ups. This reliance is a significant factor in determining the Hypertension Score.

**Driving Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for healthcare access in Hawesville. The primary routes to Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center involve navigating a network of highways and local roads. The most direct route typically utilizes Kentucky Route 69, a state highway that winds through the rolling hills and farmlands. This route connects to the Western Kentucky Parkway (WK Parkway), a toll road that offers a relatively quick and efficient passage.

The drive time, however, is subject to variables. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can influence travel time. Weather, especially during the winter months, can also pose challenges, potentially extending the commute and increasing the risk of accidents. The condition of the roads themselves, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also impact the comfort and safety of the journey, especially for individuals with hypertension.

The drive time to Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive time is a significant consideration for individuals with hypertension, as it can impact the frequency and ease of attending appointments, accessing emergency care, and obtaining necessary medications. The longer the travel time, the lower the Hypertension Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Hawesville and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Hawesville or provides regular transportation to Owensboro or Leitchfield. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to physical limitations.

The absence of public transit also presents challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those who rely on caregivers. The lack of accessible transportation options further diminishes the Hypertension Score, as it limits the ability to attend regular check-ups, access specialized care, and obtain necessary medications.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Owensboro area, but their presence in Hawesville is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be unreliable, particularly for scheduled appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. These services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

**ADA Accessibility: A Crucial Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible transportation options is crucial. The lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for individuals who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

Medical transport services often provide accessible vehicles, but their availability and cost can be barriers to access. The absence of readily available and affordable accessible transportation options significantly impacts the Hypertension Score for individuals with disabilities.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score**

The Hypertension Score for Hawesville, Kentucky (ZIP code 42348) reflects the transportation challenges and limitations in accessing healthcare. The primary mode of transportation is driving, which can be time-consuming and subject to various factors that can impact travel time and safety. The lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services further restrict healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or have mobility issues.

The Hypertension Score is also influenced by the availability of medical facilities. While Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center offers comprehensive care, the distance from Hawesville requires significant travel time. This travel time can impact the frequency and ease of attending appointments, accessing emergency care, and obtaining necessary medications.

**Moving to Hawesville: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Hawesville, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is essential. While the town offers a peaceful and charming lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options and the distance to healthcare facilities must be carefully considered.

Individuals with hypertension should prioritize the following:

* **Personal Vehicle:** Owning a reliable vehicle is crucial for accessing healthcare.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a plan for emergency transportation.
* **Transportation Assistance:** Explore medical transportation options.
* **Medication Management:** Ensure access to medication refills.
* **Regular Check-ups:** Schedule appointments in advance.

The Hypertension Score for Hawesville is influenced by these factors. The score can be improved by addressing transportation challenges and ensuring access to timely and effective medical care. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount for individuals considering moving to Hawesville and managing their hypertension effectively. This knowledge empowers informed decisions and facilitates proactive healthcare management.