42753, Knifley, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42753, Knifley, Kentucky is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.73 percent of residents in 42753 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tj Health Columbia with a distance of 11.39 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42753 (Knifley, Kentucky)

The air in Knifley, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42753), holds the scent of rural tranquility, a place where rolling hills meet the rhythm of a slower pace. Yet, beneath this idyllic surface lies a critical consideration for potential residents: access to healthcare, particularly for a disease as serious as lung cancer. This analysis, the “Lung Cancer Score,” evaluates the transportation landscape in and around Knifley, assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Knifley, as their health needs must be a primary concern.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Knifley is its geographic isolation. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are situated in larger towns, necessitating travel. Transportation infrastructure is a critical determinant of the Lung Cancer Score, impacting the time and stress associated with accessing potentially life-saving treatments. This score considers drive times, public transit options (if any), and alternative transportation methods.

The most common route for residents of Knifley seeking specialized medical care involves driving. The journey to the nearest hospitals and cancer centers typically begins on Kentucky Route 55 (KY-55), the main artery connecting Knifley to the outside world. Depending on the destination, drivers may then transition onto KY-70, KY-80, or the more major US-127.

To reach the Russell County Hospital in Jamestown, a relatively close option, the drive is approximately 25-30 minutes, covering around 20 miles. This route generally involves KY-55 south, then a turn onto KY-80 East. This journey is manageable, but it highlights the reliance on personal vehicles, a significant factor for individuals without access to a car or those facing mobility limitations.

For more specialized cancer care, residents often need to travel further. The drive to the Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center in Danville, a facility offering comprehensive cancer services, takes roughly an hour and 15 minutes, covering approximately 60 miles. The route typically involves KY-55 North, then a transition onto US-127 North, followed by KY-34. This longer journey increases the potential for fatigue and stress, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

Alternatively, residents might consider the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center in Lexington, a highly regarded facility. This drive is considerably longer, taking around two hours and covering approximately 100 miles. The route usually involves KY-55 North, connecting to US-127 North, then onto the Bluegrass Parkway (KY-9002) and finally, I-64 East. This extended travel time presents a significant barrier, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options in and around Knifley are extremely limited. There are no established bus routes or train services directly serving the area. This absence of public transit significantly diminishes the Lung Cancer Score, as it leaves individuals without a car or those unable to drive reliant on other, potentially less reliable or more expensive, options. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Knifley is often sporadic. Availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be precarious, as wait times and driver availability are unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Companies like MedTrans or other local medical transport providers might operate in the area. However, availability and cost vary. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, making them a less accessible option for individuals with limited financial resources.

The Lung Cancer Score for Knifley, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42753) is negatively impacted by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. This score reflects the difficulties residents face in accessing timely and convenient healthcare, particularly for those requiring specialized cancer treatment.

The implications of this score are significant, especially for individuals considering moving to Knifley. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limited healthcare access necessitates careful consideration. Prospective residents, particularly those with existing health conditions or a family history of cancer, should thoroughly assess their ability to manage the transportation challenges associated with accessing medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score is not merely a numerical assessment; it's a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals battling a serious illness. It highlights the importance of transportation as a critical component of healthcare access and underscores the need for proactive planning and support for those living in areas with limited transportation options. The score serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it's also about the ability to reach them.