41719, Bonnyman, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 41719, Bonnyman, Kentucky is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 41719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hazard Arh Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.70 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 41719

The air in Bonnyman, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41719), holds the scent of coal dust and the echoes of a community steeped in history. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the air also carries the weight of **healthcare access** challenges. This write-up delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available for those seeking treatment, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment based on the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape. Our focus is on the practicalities, the routes, the providers, and the potential hurdles.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a definitive medical assessment; it is a pragmatic evaluation of the journey to care. It considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options. The goal is to provide a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals diagnosed with lung cancer in this specific ZIP code.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 41719 is likely to be the Pikeville Medical Center, a regional referral center approximately 30 miles away. The most direct route is via Kentucky Route 1428, which connects to US-23 North. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes roughly 45 minutes. However, this estimate is subject to significant variations. Weather, particularly snow and ice common in the Appalachian region, can drastically increase travel times. Road closures due to landslides or accidents are also a frequent concern.

The journey to Pikeville Medical Center necessitates a careful consideration of the terrain. The roads are winding, often narrow, and can be challenging for those experiencing fatigue or mobility issues related to their cancer treatment. The lack of consistent cell phone service in some areas adds to the potential for isolation and difficulty in seeking assistance during a breakdown or medical emergency. This is a critical factor to consider when **moving to Bonnyman** or when planning ongoing care.

Public **transportation** options are severely limited. The primary means of public transit is the Mountain Comprehensive Care Center (MCCC) transit service. This service operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While MCCC offers ADA-accessible vehicles, the availability of these vehicles, particularly for same-day appointments, is not guaranteed. The routes are not fixed, and the travel time is highly variable, depending on the number of passengers and the geographical spread of their destinations.

The MCCC transit service is designed to serve a broad range of needs, not specifically those of cancer patients. This means that the schedules are not always aligned with the specific requirements of oncology appointments, such as chemotherapy infusions or radiation therapy sessions. The reliance on pre-scheduled appointments can be a significant barrier to accessing timely care, particularly for those experiencing sudden changes in their health status.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are virtually non-existent in 41719. This leaves patients with limited options. Reliance on family, friends, or community support networks becomes paramount. This can place a significant burden on caregivers and patients alike, especially when these networks are already stretched thin.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are available, but their cost can be prohibitive. These services, such as MedTrans or LifeFleet, typically provide door-to-door service, including wheelchair assistance and stretcher transport if needed. The cost, however, can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars for a round trip to Pikeville. This cost is often not fully covered by insurance, adding to the financial strain on patients and their families.

The journey to healthcare in 41719 is more than a simple commute; it is a complex logistical undertaking. The lack of reliable public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the high cost of medical **transportation** services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles and the challenges of navigating winding mountain roads add to the difficulties.

The Lung Cancer Score for 41719 reflects these realities. The score is not a single number but a composite of factors. The score considers the drive time to Pikeville Medical Center, the limitations of public transit, the lack of ride-sharing options, and the cost of medical **transportation**. The score also weighs the impact of weather, road conditions, and the availability of family and community support.

The Lung Cancer Score for 41719 is low. It highlights the need for increased investment in **transportation** infrastructure, improved public transit options, and financial assistance programs to help patients access the care they need. The score underscores the importance of community-based support services, such as volunteer driver programs and patient navigation services, to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

For individuals **moving to Bonnyman** and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. This assessment should include an evaluation of their physical capabilities, their financial resources, and the availability of family and community support. It is essential to proactively plan for **transportation**, considering all available options, and to seek assistance from healthcare providers and social service agencies.

The challenges of accessing healthcare in 41719 are not insurmountable. By understanding the obstacles and proactively planning for **transportation**, patients can increase their chances of receiving timely and effective care. This requires a collaborative effort, involving patients, families, healthcare providers, and community organizations, to create a more accessible and supportive healthcare environment.