40146, Irvington, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40146, Irvington, Kentucky is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.11 percent of residents in 40146 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Breckinridge Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.49 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Irvington, KY (ZIP Code 40146)

Considering a move to Irvington, Kentucky, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly concerning lung cancer treatment? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation accessibility to relevant medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 40146. This information will help you assess the practicality of receiving timely and effective care if you were diagnosed with lung cancer.

Irvington, a small town nestled in Breckinridge County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities in larger cities like Louisville and Elizabethtown necessitates a careful evaluation of transportation options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment, factoring in the time and ease of travel, the availability of different transportation modes, and the potential impact of these factors on a patient’s ability to receive prompt and consistent care. A higher score indicates better access.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery for commuting to healthcare from Irvington is US Highway 60, a crucial east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on US-60 leads to Elizabethtown, home to Baptist Health Hardin, a regional hospital offering cancer care services. The drive to Elizabethtown is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short commute contributes positively to the "Lung Cancer Score."

Heading west on US-60 offers access to Owensboro, which has cancer care facilities, but the drive time increases to approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it less desirable for frequent appointments.

For access to more specialized cancer centers in Louisville, such as the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, the journey involves taking US-60 East to the Western Kentucky Parkway (WK Parkway), then connecting to Interstate 65 North (I-65). This drive is significantly longer, typically taking 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute negatively impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

The condition of the roadways is generally good, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours on the WK Parkway and I-65, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting a patient’s ability to arrive on time for appointments or treatments.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Irvington and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no direct public bus service that connects Irvington to Elizabethtown or Louisville. This significant lack of public transportation access severely impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

Individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their health condition would face considerable challenges in accessing healthcare. The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on other, potentially less reliable, modes of transportation.

**Ride-Share Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Irvington, but their availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, its reliability is not guaranteed.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments and treatments. The longer distances to Louisville will translate to higher fares, potentially creating a financial burden for patients. The variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services contribute to a moderate impact on the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Medical Transport:**

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in Irvington. Ambulance services are reserved for emergencies, while NEMT provides transportation for non-emergency medical appointments.

NEMT providers can be a valuable resource for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, the availability of NEMT services can vary, and scheduling appointments in advance is often required. The reliability and cost of NEMT services can vary depending on the provider and the distance traveled.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Irvington residents is moderately impacted by the limited transportation options. The proximity to Elizabethtown, with its cancer care facilities, offers a more accessible option. However, the longer commute to Louisville for more specialized care presents a significant challenge.

The absence of reliable public transit and the potential variability of ride-sharing and medical transport services necessitate careful planning and consideration for individuals seeking lung cancer treatment.

For those moving to Irvington, it is crucial to evaluate their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Understanding the available options and planning for potential challenges is essential for ensuring timely access to necessary medical care.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate your ability to drive or the availability of a reliable driver.
* **Explore Medical Transport:** Research and identify local NEMT providers and understand their services, costs, and scheduling procedures.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in potential delays due to traffic or transportation issues.
* **Consider Proximity:** Weigh the benefits of living closer to healthcare facilities in Elizabethtown or Louisville.
* **Communicate with Healthcare Providers:** Discuss transportation needs with your healthcare team and explore potential resources or support programs.

**Lung Cancer Score Summary:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Irvington, KY (40146) is a moderate score. The proximity to Elizabethtown and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some access to healthcare. However, the lack of public transit, the longer commute to Louisville, and the potential variability of transportation options pose challenges. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and plan accordingly to ensure timely and effective access to lung cancer treatment. The decision to move to Irvington should involve a thorough assessment of these transportation factors.