42327, Calhoun, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42327, Calhoun, Kentucky is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.93 percent of residents in 42327 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Owensboro Health Regional Hospital with a distance of 17.50 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Calhoun, KY (ZIP Code 42327)

This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Calhoun, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42327), focusing on transportation options to access crucial healthcare services. The score reflects the ease, efficiency, and availability of transportation to facilities capable of diagnosing and treating lung cancer. This is vital information for anyone considering moving to Calhoun, or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access in the context of a serious illness.

The score considers various transportation modalities, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each mode is evaluated based on drive times, route availability, ADA accessibility, and overall reliability. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing timely and effective lung cancer care in this specific geographic area.

**Personal Vehicle: The Cornerstone of Healthcare Access**

For residents of Calhoun, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The most direct route to Owensboro, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves traveling east on the Western Kentucky Parkway (WK Parkway). This highway provides a relatively smooth and efficient passage, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and specific destination within Owensboro.

Alternatively, residents can utilize US-60, a more local road, for a slightly longer drive, generally taking 45-60 minutes. This route offers a scenic alternative, particularly for those who prefer avoiding the toll road. However, traffic congestion on US-60, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

For those seeking care in Madisonville, the drive is slightly longer, averaging 1 to 1.5 hours, primarily via the WK Parkway and the Pennyrile Parkway. This journey underscores the importance of reliable vehicle maintenance and preparedness for longer trips. The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for personal vehicle access is moderately positive, acknowledging the convenience but also the potential for delays and the financial burden of vehicle ownership and maintenance.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Challenges**

Public transportation options in Calhoun are severely limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Green River Area Development District (GRADD) provides demand-response transportation services, but these are primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Availability is often restricted, and advance booking is typically required.

The GRADD services may offer transportation to medical appointments, but the limited service area and the potential for long wait times negatively impact the "Lung Cancer Score." The lack of fixed-route public transit significantly restricts access for those unable to drive or unable to afford other transportation options. ADA accessibility is a key feature of GRADD services, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with mobility challenges, but the overall impact on the score remains low due to limited availability and geographical constraints.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag of Availability and Cost**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Owensboro area, offering a potentially viable option for accessing healthcare. However, their availability in Calhoun itself is less certain. The cost of a ride-sharing trip to Owensboro can be substantial, particularly during peak hours or in response to urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services are typically arranged through healthcare providers or insurance companies. The cost of medical transport can be significant, and the availability of these services may be limited depending on the specific needs of the patient and the insurance coverage.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ride-sharing and medical transport is mixed. While these options provide potential access, the cost, availability, and reliance on external factors create significant barriers for many residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or without adequate insurance coverage.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Transportation Considerations**

The primary healthcare facilities for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in Owensboro. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital offers comprehensive cancer care services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The drive time from Calhoun to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, via the WK Parkway, is typically around 35-45 minutes.

For more specialized treatments or clinical trials, patients may need to travel to Louisville or Lexington, significantly increasing travel times and associated costs. This highlights the importance of understanding the full spectrum of care available and the transportation challenges associated with each level of treatment.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Context: Moving to Calhoun**

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Calhoun, KY (42327) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While personal vehicles provide a relatively efficient means of transportation to Owensboro, the limited public transit options, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the reliance on specialized medical transport create significant challenges for many residents.

For individuals considering moving to Calhoun, or for current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, a careful assessment of transportation needs and resources is essential. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle, access to financial assistance for transportation costs, and the ability to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system are critical factors.

The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and preparedness. Understanding the potential transportation challenges, exploring all available options, and building a strong support network are crucial steps in ensuring timely and effective access to lung cancer care. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a call to action, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in healthcare access and transportation infrastructure within the community.