40464, Parksville, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40464, Parksville, Kentucky is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.20 percent of residents in 40464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ephraim Mcdowell Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.94 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parksville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40464)

The air hangs heavy with anticipation, a blend of hope and apprehension, when the words "lung cancer" are uttered. For residents of Parksville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40464), the journey to vital healthcare, a journey intricately woven with the threads of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, becomes a crucial element in the fight. This write-up serves as a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, meticulously charting the pathways to care, considering the unique landscape of this rural community.

Parksville, nestled in Boyle County, presents a specific set of challenges and opportunities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are not immediately accessible, making the efficiency and reliability of **transportation** options paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" for this area is not a single number but a composite picture, a nuanced understanding of the barriers and resources available to those seeking diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. This is especially important for anyone **moving to Parksville**, as healthcare accessibility should be a top priority.

The primary artery connecting Parksville to the broader world is US Highway 127, a two-lane road that snakes its way north and south. This highway, while scenic, can be prone to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and on weekends. The drive to Danville, the county seat and home to Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center, is generally a manageable 15-20 minute journey, depending on traffic. This medical center offers a range of services, including oncology, but may not possess the specialized expertise or advanced technologies found at larger cancer centers.

Further afield, the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center in Lexington, a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center, represents a more comprehensive resource. The drive to Lexington, primarily via US-127 North and then the Bluegrass Parkway, is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The Bluegrass Parkway, a limited-access toll road, provides a relatively smooth and efficient route, but toll fees must be factored into the overall cost of care.

Alternative routes exist, but they often involve navigating smaller, winding roads, such as Kentucky Route 300, which can add significant time to the journey. These routes are less reliable, particularly during inclement weather, and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility limitations.

Public **transportation** options in Parksville are limited. The local transit authority, if one exists, might offer demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. However, these services are often restricted in terms of operating hours and may not be equipped to handle the specific needs of cancer patients, such as wheelchair accessibility (ADA compliance) or the ability to accommodate medical equipment. It is essential to investigate the availability of such services and their adherence to ADA guidelines.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Parksville is variable. While these services may be present, their availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore risky, requiring careful planning and the potential for significant wait times. The cost of these services, especially for longer distances, can also become a substantial financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. Several national and regional brands, such as LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM), may operate in this area. These services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability of these services and their coverage by insurance plans should be thoroughly investigated.

For individuals with significant mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical equipment, ambulance services are available. However, ambulance transport is typically reserved for emergencies and is not a practical solution for routine medical appointments. The cost of ambulance transport can also be substantial, even with insurance coverage.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Parksville must also consider the availability of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs is crucial for patients and their families. These resources can help alleviate the emotional, psychological, and financial burdens associated with cancer treatment. Information about these resources can often be obtained from the local hospital, cancer support organizations, or the American Cancer Society.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Parksville, Kentucky, is influenced by several factors. The primary challenge is the distance to comprehensive cancer centers, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles or less reliable public **transportation**. The potential for traffic congestion, the cost of **transportation**, and the limited availability of specialized medical **transportation** services all contribute to a higher level of difficulty.

However, the presence of Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center in Danville provides a crucial local resource, offering initial diagnosis and some treatment options. The availability of medical **transportation** services and the potential for ride-sharing, though limited, offer alternative avenues for accessing care.

For those **moving to Parksville**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options is essential. This includes evaluating the reliability of personal vehicles, investigating the availability of medical **transportation** services, and understanding the potential costs associated with travel. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Parksville emphasizes the need for proactive planning, early engagement with healthcare providers, and a strong support network to navigate the complexities of cancer care in this rural community. It's a testament to the resilience required to face a formidable illness, and a reminder that the journey to healthcare is as critical as the care itself.