42413, Hanson, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 42413, Hanson, Kentucky is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.28 percent of residents in 42413 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville with a distance of 5.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hanson, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42413)

The journey to maintaining cardiovascular health, particularly when managing hypertension, is often intertwined with the challenges of accessing consistent healthcare. For residents of Hanson, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42413), a rural community, this journey necessitates a careful evaluation of available transportation options. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the practicalities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** within and around this specific ZIP code, offering insights for both current residents and those considering **moving to Hanson**.

The Hypertension Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value but rather a comprehensive analysis of the factors impacting a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care for hypertension. We'll consider the distances, modes of travel, and associated challenges to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary artery of movement in and out of Hanson is US-41, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traveling south on US-41, the nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Madisonville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. This drive provides the most immediate access to the Baptist Health Madisonville hospital, offering a wide range of medical services, including cardiology and internal medicine. The speed limit along this stretch of US-41 varies, requiring careful attention to maintain a safe and timely arrival.

Another option involves heading east on KY-293, which intersects with US-41. This route offers access to smaller clinics and physician offices in the surrounding communities, which might offer primary care physicians or specialists. However, the travel time to these facilities can vary, and the services available may be more limited than those offered at the larger hospital in Madisonville.

For those without personal vehicles, the options become considerably more constrained. Public **transportation** in this rural area is limited. There is no formal public bus system that serves Hanson or the immediate surrounding areas. This lack of readily available public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive, are elderly, or have mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Madisonville area, but their availability in Hanson is less certain. The response times and the reliability of these services can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, a risky proposition.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, do exist. Companies like MedTrans or local ambulance services might provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, especially for frequent appointments. The cost, coupled with the time required for scheduling and travel, can add considerable stress for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Furthermore, the availability of pharmacies and medical supply stores within Hanson itself is a crucial consideration. While there may be local options for prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, the choices may be limited compared to larger pharmacies in Madisonville. This can impact the ability to quickly obtain necessary medications or medical supplies, which is vital for managing hypertension effectively.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available **transportation** options is another critical factor. While ride-sharing services are expected to accommodate passengers with disabilities, the availability of accessible vehicles in Hanson is not guaranteed. Medical **transportation** services should, by law, offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but verifying this beforehand is essential. The lack of accessible public **transportation** further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with mobility impairments.

The "Hypertension Score" for Hanson, KY, reflects these realities. The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the potential cost and complexity of medical **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a significant dependence on individual mobility, which can be challenging for those with health limitations or financial constraints.

The potential for delays due to traffic, particularly during peak hours on US-41, adds another layer of complexity. While the drive to Madisonville is relatively short, any unexpected delays can disrupt appointment schedules and increase stress levels, which is counterproductive for managing hypertension.

For individuals considering **moving to Hanson**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and **healthcare access** requirements is paramount. They should investigate the availability of medical **transportation** services, establish relationships with local healthcare providers, and factor in the potential costs associated with **transportation** to and from medical appointments.

The availability of telehealth services can also mitigate some of the challenges associated with **transportation**. Telehealth consultations with physicians and remote monitoring of blood pressure can help reduce the frequency of in-person visits, making it easier to manage hypertension. However, access to reliable internet connectivity is essential for utilizing telehealth services effectively.

In conclusion, managing hypertension in Hanson, KY, requires a proactive approach to **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the drive to Madisonville offers relatively quick access to comprehensive medical care, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services present significant challenges. For residents and those considering **moving to Hanson**, a thorough evaluation of these factors is crucial for ensuring timely and effective healthcare management. The "Hypertension Score" for this community emphasizes the need for careful planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to maintaining cardiovascular health.