42369, Rockport, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 42369, Rockport, Kentucky is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.77 percent of residents in 42369 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 9.30 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockport, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42369)

Rockport, Kentucky, nestled in the heart of Ohio County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities for its residents, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis, framed as a "Hypertension Score," delves into the intricacies of transportation options available to individuals within ZIP code 42369, specifically focusing on their ability to reach essential medical care, with a keen eye on those managing hypertension. The ability to readily access medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialized care is paramount for effectively managing this chronic condition. Understanding the transportation landscape is critical for residents, especially those considering **moving to Rockport**, and for local healthcare providers striving to improve patient outcomes.

The foundation of healthcare access in Rockport rests primarily on personal vehicles. The reliance on private transportation underscores the importance of individual mobility and the availability of reliable vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Rockport to regional healthcare hubs are US-231 and the Western Kentucky Parkway. Traveling north on US-231 offers a direct route to Owensboro, a city boasting a comprehensive range of medical facilities, including Owensboro Health Regional Hospital.

The drive to Owensboro, approximately 25 miles, typically takes around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the driver's speed. The Western Kentucky Parkway provides an alternative route, offering a faster, albeit toll-based, option. This route, while slightly longer in distance, can reduce travel time, particularly during peak hours. The parkway leads to Owensboro via the Wendell H. Ford Expressway, offering quicker access to the city's medical facilities.

The journey south on US-231 leads to Bowling Green, another significant healthcare center, home to hospitals like the Med Center Health. This trip, approximately 60 miles, translates to a drive time of around one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The availability of these major roadways is crucial, yet the accessibility of these routes is highly dependent on individual vehicle ownership and the driver's physical capabilities.

Public transportation options in Rockport are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. While specific bus routes and schedules are not readily available within Rockport itself, individuals might be able to access regional transit options that connect to neighboring cities. These options, however, often involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, potentially posing challenges for individuals managing hypertension who require timely access to medical care.

The absence of detailed public transit information highlights the need for further investigation and potential investment in public transportation infrastructure. Any existing public transit routes should be assessed for their ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. This includes features like ramps, lifts, and accessible seating.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for transportation, yet their availability in Rockport is variable. The presence of ride-sharing services depends on driver availability and demand. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for trips to Owensboro or Bowling Green, could quickly accumulate, placing a strain on household budgets.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) may operate in the area, providing transportation for individuals who require assistance due to physical limitations or other medical needs. These services often cater to individuals covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs. Researching the availability of NEMT providers and understanding their coverage options is crucial for residents.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Rockport, and the ability to navigate the **transportation** challenges, directly impacts the management of chronic conditions like hypertension. The ability to adhere to medication schedules, attend regular check-ups, and access emergency care is significantly influenced by the availability and affordability of transportation options.

The "Hypertension Score" for Rockport, therefore, reflects a nuanced picture. While the presence of major roadways like US-231 and the Western Kentucky Parkway offers access to regional healthcare hubs, the lack of robust public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for some residents. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle ownership and the need for accessible and affordable transportation alternatives.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the transportation landscape. The actual "Hypertension Score" would need to be determined through a comprehensive assessment, considering factors like individual mobility, income levels, and access to healthcare insurance. The score would also need to account for the availability and accessibility of pharmacies, the proximity of urgent care facilities, and the presence of support services for individuals managing hypertension.

For individuals **moving to Rockport**, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their personal transportation needs and investigate the availability of healthcare services in the area. This includes researching the accessibility of medical facilities, the availability of pharmacies, and the potential costs associated with transportation.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Rockport requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves exploring opportunities to enhance public transportation, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding the reach of medical transportation providers. Collaboration between local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents of ZIP code 42369. The ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and healthcare access will have a direct and positive impact on the health and well-being of the community, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.