40339, Keene, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 40339, Keene, Kentucky is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 40339 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluegrass Community Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 40339 (Keene, KY)

The overall health of a community hinges on many factors, but few are as critical as reliable and efficient **healthcare access**. This write-up assesses the ease with which residents of ZIP code 40339 (Keene, Kentucky) can reach essential medical services, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on the available **transportation** options. Considering the unique challenges of rural areas, we will explore the strengths and weaknesses of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport. This analysis is particularly relevant for those **moving to Keene** and seeking to understand the practicalities of maintaining their health.

**Driving: The Dominant Mode**

For most residents of Keene, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The proximity to Lexington, a regional medical hub, offers a wealth of choices, but the journey itself presents considerations. The primary routes involve navigating US-60, a major east-west artery, and US-127, which runs north-south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near intersections and in the vicinity of larger towns.

The average drive time to the closest hospital, Saint Joseph Jessamine in Nicholasville, is approximately 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for Keene residents. However, the distance to larger, more specialized hospitals in Lexington, such as the University of Kentucky Healthcare system (UK Healthcare), can extend the travel time to 30-45 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic. This longer commute could present challenges for individuals with urgent medical needs or those requiring frequent appointments.

Navigating the roads also necessitates accounting for potential hazards. Weather conditions, especially during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Rural roads may not always be adequately cleared of snow and ice, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. Furthermore, the cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance adds a financial burden to accessing medical services, particularly for those with limited incomes.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public **transportation** options in Keene are limited, which impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Lexington Transit Authority (Lextran) does not directly serve Keene. Residents rely on a combination of local shuttle services and private transportation arrangements. This lack of comprehensive public transit represents a significant disadvantage for individuals who cannot drive, including seniors, people with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a car.

While Lextran does not directly serve Keene, there may be limited options to reach a Lextran route in nearby Nicholasville. This would involve a combination of local services, potentially requiring multiple transfers and extending the overall travel time considerably. The availability of ADA-accessible buses and routes is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities, but the limited public transit infrastructure in the area poses a barrier.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Keene area and offer an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, as fares can fluctuate based on demand and distance.

Medical transport services provide specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services often cater to patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering various levels of service, from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations.

**Specific Brands and Services:**

* **Ride-sharing:** Uber and Lyft are available, but availability may vary.
* **Medical Transport:** Several providers serve the area, including but not limited to:
* **MedStar Transportation:** Offers non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Provides both emergency and non-emergency medical transport.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Operate within the county and provide emergency medical services.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in ZIP code 40339 is moderate. The relatively short commute to Saint Joseph Jessamine Hospital in Nicholasville is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges posed by weather and traffic conditions create barriers to care for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers additional options, but these services are often subject to cost and availability constraints.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for Keene, several initiatives could be implemented:

* **Advocate for Expanded Public Transit:** Lobby for extending Lextran routes or establishing a local shuttle service to connect Keene residents with healthcare facilities and public transit hubs.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Invest in road maintenance and safety improvements, particularly on US-60 and US-127, to ensure safe and efficient travel.
* **Support Community Health Initiatives:** Partner with local organizations to offer programs that promote health and wellness, such as free health screenings and transportation assistance for medical appointments.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, the community can improve **healthcare access** and enhance the overall health and well-being of Keene residents, making it an even more attractive place for those **moving to Keene**.