40339, Keene, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40339, Keene, Kentucky is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 40339 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluegrass Community Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keene, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40339)

Deciphering the complexities of healthcare access, especially when considering a potential move to a new locale like Keene, Kentucky (ZIP code 40339), demands a nuanced understanding of available resources. This write-up, specifically focusing on lung cancer care, aims to illuminate the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for residents of this area. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transportation services, all crucial elements in calculating a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical appointments and treatments.

For residents of Keene, a rural community nestled within Jessamine County, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is undoubtedly the automobile. The proximity to Lexington, a regional hub for advanced medical care, significantly influences this dynamic. The most direct route to Lexington from Keene involves utilizing **US-68** and then transitioning onto **US-60**, eventually connecting with the **New Circle Road** (KY-4) or **Interstate 64** (I-64) depending on the specific destination within the city.

Drive times to major Lexington hospitals, such as the University of Kentucky's Markey Cancer Center, typically range from 25 to 45 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions. Morning and evening commutes can significantly extend travel times, particularly along US-68 and sections of US-60. Similarly, accessing Baptist Health Lexington, another prominent healthcare provider, follows a similar route, with travel times mirroring those to the UK Markey Cancer Center.

The availability of public transportation in Keene and the surrounding area presents a less robust option for healthcare access. The Lexington Transit Authority (Lextran) operates a limited network of bus routes, but its services primarily concentrate on the city of Lexington. While Lextran routes might extend into the periphery of Jessamine County, their direct service to Keene is minimal, potentially requiring multiple transfers and significantly extending travel times.

Individuals considering public transit must research specific route numbers and schedules meticulously. Furthermore, the accessibility of Lextran buses for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. Lextran adheres to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines, ensuring that all buses are equipped with features like ramps or lifts and designated seating areas. However, the frequency and coverage of these ADA-compliant buses within the context of Keene’s location remain a consideration.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate significantly depending on demand and the time of day. Residents of Keene might experience longer wait times and potentially higher fares compared to those residing within Lexington. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is a critical consideration, as delays or cancellations can disrupt treatment schedules.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs, including those undergoing cancer treatment. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility challenges and offering comfort and support during their journeys. Several medical transportation companies operate within the Lexington area, potentially serving residents of Keene.

Researching and contacting these companies, such as MedTrans or First Transit, is essential to determine their service area, pricing, and availability. These services often require advance booking, especially for appointments at specialized cancer centers. The cost of medical transportation can be a significant factor, and it is crucial to explore insurance coverage and potential financial assistance programs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Keene, Kentucky, reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. A higher score indicates easier access to lung cancer care, while a lower score signifies greater challenges. The score considers drive times to cancer centers, the availability and reliability of public transit, the accessibility and cost of ride-sharing, and the presence of specialized medical transportation services.

For individuals moving to Keene with a history of or the potential for lung cancer, a thorough assessment of these transportation options is paramount. This assessment should include:

* **Detailed route planning:** Mapping the most efficient routes to various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and radiation therapy centers.
* **Traffic analysis:** Understanding peak travel times and potential delays along the primary roadways, particularly US-68, US-60, and the New Circle Road.
* **Public transit evaluation:** Investigating the feasibility of utilizing Lextran services, considering route schedules, transfer requirements, and ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-sharing assessment:** Evaluating the availability, cost, and reliability of Uber and Lyft services in Keene, especially during off-peak hours.
* **Medical transportation research:** Identifying and contacting medical transportation providers to determine service areas, pricing, and insurance coverage.
* **Financial planning:** Estimating the overall cost of transportation to healthcare appointments, including fuel, ride-sharing fares, and medical transportation fees.

Furthermore, it is crucial to consider the physical and emotional demands of traveling for cancer treatment. Long travel times can exacerbate fatigue and stress, impacting the overall well-being of patients. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators or transportation assistance programs offered by cancer centers, can significantly alleviate these burdens.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, service availability, and individual needs. By diligently researching and evaluating these factors, residents of Keene can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure that they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. This level of preparation is particularly important for those moving to Keene, allowing them to proactively address potential transportation challenges and prioritize their health.