41129, Catlettsburg, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 41129, Catlettsburg, Kentucky is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.19 percent of residents in 41129 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is King's Daughters' Medical Center with a distance of 7.54 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Catlettsburg (ZIP Code 41129)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of the Ohio River and the echoes of industry in Catlettsburg, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41129). This community, nestled at the confluence of the Big Sandy and Ohio Rivers, faces unique challenges, particularly regarding healthcare access. A crucial aspect of survival for those diagnosed with lung cancer is timely access to specialized care, making the ease of **transportation** a critical factor. This write-up analyzes the **healthcare access** landscape, specifically focusing on the journey to treatment centers for individuals residing in and potentially **moving to Catlettsburg**. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the accessibility of life-saving resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Catlettsburg will be a composite measure, considering factors such as travel time, mode of **transportation** availability, and the presence of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable radius. The score will range from 1 (poor access) to 5 (excellent access), reflecting the overall ease with which a patient can reach necessary medical care. This analysis acknowledges the potential for geographic isolation and the impact it can have on a patient's prognosis.

For residents of Catlettsburg, the primary mode of **transportation** for reaching healthcare facilities is likely by car. The major thoroughfare connecting the town to larger medical centers is Interstate 64 (I-64). Traveling east on I-64 leads towards Huntington, West Virginia, and the Cabell Huntington Hospital, a regional referral center. The drive is approximately 15 miles and typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey is relatively straightforward, but the variability in travel time, particularly during peak hours, needs to be considered.

Alternatively, heading west on I-64 provides access to Ashland, Kentucky, and the King's Daughters Medical Center. This drive is shorter, approximately 5 miles, and usually takes around 10-15 minutes. King's Daughters Medical Center offers comprehensive cancer care, including radiation oncology and medical oncology services, making it a vital resource for Catlettsburg residents. The proximity of this facility significantly boosts the "Lung Cancer Score."

Smaller roads, such as US Route 60, offer alternative routes, though they are generally slower and more susceptible to traffic delays. These routes might be necessary if I-64 experiences closures due to accidents or inclement weather. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and the potential challenges for individuals without access to a car.

Public transit options in Catlettsburg are limited. The Ashland Area Transit Authority (AATA) provides bus service in the Ashland area, but the routes and frequency may not be ideal for accessing specialized lung cancer care. Passengers would likely need to transfer between multiple buses, extending travel times and potentially adding to the stress of medical appointments. The AATA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules pose a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for many.

The absence of dedicated bus routes directly serving Catlettsburg and the limited service hours are significant drawbacks. The lack of readily available public **transportation** options significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ashland and Huntington areas. However, their availability in Catlettsburg itself can be variable, and the cost of rides can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, the cost and potential unreliability in a rural area like Catlettsburg need to be factored in.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are often covered by insurance for eligible individuals and can be a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the availability and scheduling of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required.

Specialized medical **transportation** providers, such as ambulance services, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are not typically used for routine appointments and are reserved for critical care needs.

Considering the factors above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Catlettsburg, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41129) is a 3. This score reflects the mixed landscape of **healthcare access**. While the proximity of King's Daughters Medical Center offers a significant advantage, the limited public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents.

The score is influenced by the relatively short drive times to nearby medical facilities via I-64, offering a reasonable level of accessibility. However, the lack of robust public **transportation** options and the potential cost barriers associated with ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** services, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources, detract from the overall score.

For individuals **moving to Catlettsburg**, it is crucial to consider the limitations of the **transportation** infrastructure and the potential impact on **healthcare access**. While the town offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the ability to readily access specialized medical care is a critical consideration, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not simply about the availability of medical facilities; it's also about the ability to reach those facilities in a timely and affordable manner. The challenges faced by Catlettsburg residents highlight the need for continued efforts to improve public transit, support ride-sharing programs, and ensure the availability of affordable medical **transportation** services, ultimately improving the prognosis for those battling lung cancer.