40313, Clearfield, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 40313, Clearfield, Kentucky is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.74 percent of residents in 40313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Claire Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 40313

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' for residents of Clearfield, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40313), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access, particularly the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Clearfield or seeking to understand its healthcare landscape.

Clearfield, nestled in the rolling hills of Kentucky, presents a unique challenge. While offering the charm of rural living, its healthcare access is significantly shaped by its location. The 'Overall Health Score' considers the distance to medical facilities, the quality of available transportation, and the potential impact of these factors on residents' health outcomes.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Clearfield is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Understanding the road network is paramount. The nearest significant healthcare providers are located in Morehead, a town approximately 10-15 miles away. This journey primarily involves navigating **KY-32** and **US-60**, roads that, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours.

Travel to Lexington, the nearest city with a comprehensive medical center, requires a longer commute. This involves utilizing **KY-32** to connect with **I-64** west. The drive to Lexington, a distance of roughly 70-80 miles, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This longer commute time, especially for urgent medical needs, is a significant factor in the 'Overall Health Score'.

The condition of these roads is also a consideration. While the state maintains them, weather events, particularly during winter, can impact travel times and potentially hinder access to care. Residents must be prepared for potential delays and plan accordingly, factoring in time for travel and potential traffic bottlenecks.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Clearfield and the surrounding area are limited. The primary provider is the **Morehead Transit System**. This system offers fixed-route bus service, but the routes and schedules are limited, and do not directly serve Clearfield. Residents would need to travel to Morehead, typically by car, to access these routes.

The **Morehead Transit System** routes, although limited in scope, offer some ADA-accessible features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the infrequency of service and the lack of direct routes to Clearfield significantly diminish their utility for healthcare access. The lack of robust public transit contributes to a lower 'Overall Health Score' for residents without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clearfield area, but their availability and reliability can vary. While they offer an alternative to personal vehicles, their presence is not as consistent as in more urban areas. This lack of consistent availability can pose challenges for those without access to a personal vehicle or for those who need immediate transportation to a medical facility.

Medical transport services are available, but typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs or those requiring specialized care. These services, such as those offered by **Med-Trans Corporation** or local ambulance services, are essential for emergencies and for transporting patients to and from appointments when other options are unavailable. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier to access for some residents.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Clearfield (40313) reflects the challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The primary factor negatively impacting the score is the reliance on personal vehicles and the longer commute times to access comprehensive medical care. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-share services further contribute to this challenge.

The positive aspects include the availability of medical transport services for those with specific needs and the presence of local healthcare providers in Morehead. The overall score, however, is moderate, indicating a need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Clearfield:**

For individuals considering moving to Clearfield, careful consideration of transportation needs is crucial. Assessing the availability of a personal vehicle and understanding the potential for longer commute times to access specialized medical care is essential.

Those reliant on public transit or ride-share services should factor in potential delays and plan accordingly. Exploring options for carpooling or utilizing medical transport services for appointments requiring specialized care is also recommended.

For those with pre-existing medical conditions, researching the availability of specialists and the accessibility of healthcare facilities in Morehead and Lexington is paramount. Understanding the local healthcare landscape and planning for potential transportation challenges is key to ensuring adequate healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Clearfield (40313) reflects a community with both strengths and weaknesses in healthcare access. While the proximity to Morehead offers some local options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the longer commute times to access specialized care in Lexington present significant challenges. Improving public transportation, expanding ride-share availability, and exploring innovative solutions to address transportation barriers would significantly enhance the 'Overall Health Score' and improve the health outcomes of Clearfield residents. For those considering moving to Clearfield, a proactive approach to understanding and planning for transportation needs is essential for ensuring adequate healthcare access. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is critical for maintaining and improving one's health in this rural Kentucky community.