42348, Hawesville, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42348, Hawesville, Kentucky is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.85 percent of residents in 42348 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Owensboro Health Regional Hospital with a distance of 17.19 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hawesville, KY (ZIP Code 42348)

Considering a move to the charming river town of Hawesville, Kentucky, ZIP Code 42348? Perhaps you're weighing the pros and cons, and healthcare access is a crucial factor. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of transportation accessibility to specialized lung cancer care, specifically for those potentially facing this challenging diagnosis. This score considers various modes of transportation, travel times, and available resources. Remember, this is a hypothetical scenario, and individual needs and circumstances will vary.

Hawesville, nestled along the Ohio River, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of healthcare accessibility. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Owensboro, approximately 30 miles east, and Evansville, Indiana, roughly 45 miles west. These cities are the primary destinations for specialized lung cancer treatment.

**Drive Time and Road Conditions:**

The primary thoroughfare connecting Hawesville to Owensboro is US-60 East. The drive, typically taking 40-50 minutes, is generally straightforward, although traffic can be heavier during peak hours. Road conditions are generally good, but winter weather can sometimes present challenges. The journey to Evansville involves a slightly longer drive, primarily via US-60 West and then the Lloyd Expressway. Expect a travel time of around an hour, depending on traffic and border crossing procedures.

The scenic route along the Ohio River, while beautiful, is not always the most practical for frequent medical appointments. Secondary roads like KY-283 and KY-144 offer alternative routes, but they are often narrower and may have more curves, potentially impacting travel time and comfort, particularly for patients undergoing treatment.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Hawesville and the surrounding area are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly connects Hawesville to Owensboro or Evansville. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This is a major factor affecting the Lung Cancer Score.

**ADA Considerations:**

The absence of public transportation also means a lack of readily available ADA-accessible options. Individuals with mobility limitations would face significant challenges in accessing specialized lung cancer care. This underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in Hawesville, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to Owensboro or Evansville for appointments, treatments, and follow-ups could become a significant financial burden.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, represent a more viable, albeit often more expensive, option. These services typically offer transportation specifically designed for patients, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, their availability and scheduling may require advance planning, and the cost can be a barrier.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Researching and contacting medical transport brands in advance is essential. Look for companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) that serve the Hawesville area. Some national providers may offer services, but local providers may have a better understanding of the region and be more readily available.

**The Lung Cancer Score:**

Considering the limited transportation options, the Lung Cancer Score for Hawesville (42348) is **Moderate-Low**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transportation, and the potential cost and availability challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Impact on Moving to Hawesville:**

For those considering moving to Hawesville, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments or specialized care, should thoroughly research transportation options and potential costs before making a move.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Determine the frequency of medical appointments and the need for specialized care.
* **Research Transportation Options:** Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing, medical transport, and potential volunteer driver programs.
* **Contact Healthcare Providers:** Inquire about transportation assistance programs offered by cancer centers or hospitals.
* **Factor in Costs:** Budget for transportation expenses, including fuel, ride-sharing fees, or medical transport costs.
* **Consider Proximity:** Evaluate the distance to healthcare facilities and the potential impact on travel time and comfort.

**Conclusion:**

While Hawesville offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options necessitate careful planning for healthcare access. Prospective residents, especially those with healthcare needs, should prioritize a thorough assessment of transportation capabilities and resources to ensure they can receive the necessary care. Healthcare access is a vital consideration when evaluating the suitability of a location, and in Hawesville, the transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for understanding these complexities.