42782, Summersville, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.72 percent of residents in 42782 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jane Todd Crawford Hospital with a distance of 9.09 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summersville, KY (ZIP Code 42782)

The decision to relocate, especially for those managing health conditions like hypertension, demands meticulous planning. Understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** points is paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment for Summersville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42782), focusing on the practicalities of reaching medical appointments. It's a vital consideration for anyone **moving to Summersville** and managing their blood pressure.

Summersville, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all of which directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care. This assessment aims to paint a realistic picture of the landscape, empowering informed decisions.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents in Summersville is personal vehicles. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The drive times outlined below are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic, weather, and the time of day.

To reach the primary healthcare hub, the Taylor Regional Hospital in Campbellsville, residents typically embark on a journey of approximately 25-30 minutes. The most direct route involves taking KY-55 south. This highway is generally well-maintained, but be prepared for potential delays during peak hours or inclement weather.

For specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, residents may need to travel to facilities in Elizabethtown or Bowling Green. Elizabethtown, approximately an hour's drive via the Bluegrass Parkway (a toll road), offers a wider range of specialists. Bowling Green, roughly an hour and a half away via the Natcher Parkway (also a toll road) and I-65, provides even more extensive options.

These longer drives highlight the importance of considering potential traffic delays, especially during morning and evening commutes. Regular blood pressure monitoring and medication refills necessitate frequent trips, making drive time a critical factor in maintaining consistent care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public **transportation** options in Summersville are extremely limited. There is no dedicated bus system within the town itself. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

The Green River Area Development District (GRADD) offers a demand-response transit service, but it’s not a regularly scheduled bus route. This service, known as GRADD Transit, requires advance booking and is primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, making it a potential option for those with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and scheduling constraints make it less than ideal for routine medical appointments.

The viability of public transit for hypertension management is therefore severely restricted. The lack of readily available and frequent routes means that relying solely on public **transportation** could pose significant challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Summersville area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. Coverage is not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas, and wait times can be prolonged, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, are available. Companies like Rural Medical Transport and others offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, but they provide a vital lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other **transportation** options.

The cost of medical **transportation** services, combined with the potential for long wait times, adds another layer of complexity to **healthcare access** in Summersville. Patients need to carefully consider these factors when planning their care.

**The Hypertension Score: Putting it All Together:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for Summersville, KY (42782) reflects the challenges of **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing create a complex scenario.

**Score Components:**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While Taylor Regional Hospital is relatively accessible, specialized care requires longer drives.
* **Public Transit:** Very Poor. The lack of a regular bus system significantly limits access.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Limited. Availability and reliability are inconsistent.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but costly and requires advance planning.

**Overall Score:**

Considering all factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Summersville, KY (42782) is **moderate to low**. This score reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure consistent access to healthcare.

**Recommendations for Managing Hypertension in Summersville:**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When **moving to Summersville**, consider the proximity of your residence to major roads and highways.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in potential travel delays.
* **Explore Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication refills when possible.
* **Establish a Support Network:** Identify friends, family, or neighbors who can assist with **transportation** to appointments.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** Research and pre-book medical **transportation** services when needed.
* **Advocate for Improved Services:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public **transportation** options in the area.

**Conclusion:**

Summersville offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, but **healthcare access** requires careful consideration, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning, utilizing available resources, and advocating for improved **transportation** and **healthcare access**. For those **moving to Summersville**, understanding these factors is crucial to maintaining optimal health and well-being.