42166, Summer Shade, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42166, Summer Shade, Kentucky is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.71 percent of residents in 42166 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Medical Center with a distance of 12.39 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summer Shade, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42166)

The bucolic charm of Summer Shade, Kentucky, nestled in the heart of Metcalfe County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, when considering a move, particularly for those with health concerns, the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** become paramount. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," examines the logistical landscape for individuals residing in ZIP Code 42166, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to accessing lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. It’s a critical assessment for anyone **moving to Summer Shade**, especially those with pre-existing conditions or at risk.

Summer Shade, a community of roughly 300 residents, is geographically isolated. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities, including those specializing in oncology, are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles and, to a lesser extent, alternative modes of **transportation**. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the practical hurdles faced by those seeking timely and consistent healthcare.

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Summer Shade is by car. The most direct path typically involves navigating local roads to reach major thoroughfares. Residents would likely utilize Kentucky Route 63, a north-south artery that connects Summer Shade to Edmonton, the county seat, and beyond. This route is generally well-maintained but can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times. From Edmonton, the journey continues on Kentucky Route 90, heading east towards Glasgow, or west towards Tompkinsville.

Glasgow, approximately 25 miles east of Summer Shade, is home to T.J. Samson Community Hospital, a regional medical center. The drive, predominantly on Kentucky Route 90, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, potentially providing initial screenings for lung cancer. However, specialized oncology services, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, may require referrals to larger facilities.

Bowling Green, a city about 60 miles west of Summer Shade, offers a more comprehensive range of healthcare options. The drive, primarily via Kentucky Route 90 and the I-65 interstate, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Bowling Green is home to the Medical Center, a large regional hospital with a comprehensive cancer center. This facility provides advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

The journey to Nashville, Tennessee, about 90 miles south, presents another option for specialized care. The route involves traveling on Kentucky Route 90 to I-65 South. Nashville boasts several renowned medical centers, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center, which offers cutting-edge cancer treatment and research. However, the longer travel time and potential for heavy traffic on I-65 significantly impact the **transportation** score.

Public transit options in Summer Shade are extremely limited. Metcalfe County does not have a local public bus system. The absence of regular public **transportation** significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This limitation is particularly challenging for individuals with mobility issues, disabilities, or those who cannot afford the expense of owning and maintaining a vehicle.

ADA-compliant public transit is non-existent in the immediate area, further exacerbating the challenges for individuals with disabilities. This lack of accessible **transportation** creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for a vulnerable population. The absence of public **transportation** also limits the ability to attend follow-up appointments, receive ongoing treatments, and access support services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bowling Green and Glasgow areas, but their presence in Summer Shade is sporadic. The availability of ride-sharing depends on driver availability and demand, making it an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments. Even when available, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive, especially for frequent trips to and from medical facilities.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), offer an alternative for those who cannot drive themselves. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, but they are not typically used for routine appointments. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, making them less convenient than personal vehicles.

The availability of NEMT services in Summer Shade is limited. Residents may need to rely on providers based in Glasgow or Bowling Green, increasing the travel time and cost. The reliability of these services can also be a concern, as they may be subject to scheduling conflicts and delays.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Summer Shade, Kentucky (42166) reflects a challenging **transportation** landscape for individuals seeking lung cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The long drive times to specialized medical centers in Glasgow, Bowling Green, and Nashville, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, add to the logistical burden.

The lack of accessible **transportation** for individuals with disabilities further compounds the challenges. The cost of medical **transportation** services and the potential for scheduling conflicts add to the financial and logistical strain. While the community of Summer Shade offers a peaceful setting, the realities of **healthcare access** must be carefully considered by anyone **moving to Summer Shade**, especially those with health concerns.

The score emphasizes the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness. Individuals may need to explore options such as carpooling, coordinating appointments to minimize travel, and seeking assistance from family, friends, or community organizations. The score underscores the importance of advocating for improved **transportation** infrastructure and **healthcare access** in rural communities.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Summer Shade serves as a crucial assessment tool. It highlights the critical need for individuals to carefully evaluate their **transportation** options and **healthcare access** needs before **moving to Summer Shade**, or any rural area, especially if facing a lung cancer diagnosis or at risk. This detailed analysis emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and a proactive approach to healthcare management in a community where access to specialized medical services is geographically challenged.