41701, Hazard, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 41701, Hazard, Kentucky is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.71 percent of residents in 41701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hazard Arh Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.54 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hazard, KY (ZIP Code 41701)

The air in Hazard, Kentucky, nestled deep within the Appalachian Mountains, holds a history as rich and complex as the terrain itself. For residents of ZIP Code 41701, that history includes a legacy of coal mining, a profession that, while providing livelihoods, has also left its mark on the health of the community. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for Hazard, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a diagnosis of lung cancer. It examines the transportation landscape – the arteries through which life-saving care must flow.

The ability to reach medical professionals, especially specialists in oncology and pulmonology, is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the ease and efficiency with which individuals can access these crucial services. This analysis focuses on transportation options, recognizing that distance and travel time are significant barriers to healthcare access in a rural setting. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those living with or at risk of lung cancer in Hazard.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most residents of 41701. The mountainous terrain and limited public transit options make personal vehicles essential. The primary thoroughfares are the Hal Rogers Parkway (Kentucky Route 15), which connects Hazard to the wider region, and the Daniel Boone Parkway (Kentucky Route 80), offering access to the west. Within Hazard, the main arteries are Main Street, Combs Mountain Parkway, and various county roads that snake through the hollows.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score." The closest hospital, Hazard Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) Hospital, is located within the city limits. This proximity offers a significant advantage for immediate care, including initial diagnosis and stabilization. However, specialized treatment, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, may necessitate travel to larger regional centers.

A drive to Lexington, Kentucky, home to the University of Kentucky’s Markey Cancer Center, is approximately 110 miles, taking around two to two-and-a-half hours via the Hal Rogers Parkway and the Mountain Parkway. This journey, while manageable, can be physically and emotionally taxing for patients undergoing treatment. The drive is further complicated by potential traffic, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, which are common in the Appalachian region.

Another option is the Pikeville Medical Center, located roughly 60 miles northeast of Hazard, accessible via Kentucky Route 15 and US Route 23. The drive typically takes about an hour and a half. Pikeville offers a comprehensive cancer center, making it a more accessible alternative for certain treatments. The choice of facility will depend on the specific needs of the patient, the availability of specialists, and insurance coverage.

Public transportation options are limited in Hazard. The Kentucky River Area Development District (KRADD) provides demand-response transportation services for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and the general public. These services, while vital for those who cannot drive, require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. Information regarding specific routes and ADA accessibility features is best obtained directly from KRADD.

The absence of a robust public transportation system underscores the importance of personal vehicles and alternative transportation solutions. The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges the need for creative solutions to bridge the healthcare access gap. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Hazard, but their availability and reliability can vary. Medical transport services, such as Air Evac Lifeteam and other ground ambulance services, are crucial for emergency situations and for transporting patients with mobility limitations.

The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential tolls, adds another layer of complexity to the "Lung Cancer Score." This is especially true for low-income individuals and families, who may face financial hardship in addition to the physical and emotional challenges of battling cancer. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by cancer support organizations and hospitals, is a crucial factor in ensuring equitable healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Hazard, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the community offers a strong sense of belonging and a slower pace of life, the limitations in healthcare access, particularly for specialized cancer care, must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, assess their transportation needs, and explore potential support systems before making a move.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it is a holistic assessment of the factors that influence a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. It acknowledges the challenges of living in a rural area while highlighting the resilience and resourcefulness of the community. The score is a call to action, urging policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members to work together to improve healthcare access and support the well-being of those affected by lung cancer in Hazard, Kentucky.

The future of healthcare access in 41701 depends on continued investment in transportation infrastructure, expansion of public transit options, and the development of innovative solutions to overcome the barriers of distance and geography. Telemedicine, for example, can play a crucial role in providing access to specialist consultations and follow-up care. The "Lung Cancer Score" will continue to evolve, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and outcomes for the residents of Hazard.