40983, Sextons Creek, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 40983, Sextons Creek, Kentucky is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.43 percent of residents in 40983 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Manchester Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 40983 (Sextons Creek, Kentucky)

This report provides an assessment of healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 40983, Sextons Creek, Kentucky. We analyze various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to determine an overall health score reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical care. This score considers drive times, public transportation availability, and alternative transport solutions, ultimately aiming to paint a clear picture of healthcare accessibility for individuals considering moving to Sextons Creek or currently residing there.

The overall health score for 40983 is significantly influenced by the rural nature of the area. Sextons Creek, nestled in the Appalachian foothills, presents unique transportation challenges. The limited infrastructure, coupled with a sparse population, impacts healthcare access significantly. Evaluating the available options is vital to understanding the realities of seeking medical attention in this region.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

Personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation in Sextons Creek. The condition of the roads and the distances to healthcare facilities are critical factors. Accessing healthcare in this area primarily relies on navigating the winding roads and highways.

The most direct route to larger medical facilities typically involves driving on **Kentucky Route 119**, a major artery connecting Sextons Creek to neighboring towns. Depending on the destination, the drive on 119 can be a relatively straightforward journey. However, the road's condition varies, and traffic, though usually light, can be a factor during peak hours or inclement weather.

For those seeking specialized care, the journey often extends beyond Kentucky Route 119. The closest major hospitals are located in Pikeville, approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Sextons Creek. This drive involves connecting to **US Route 23**, a well-maintained highway providing access to Pikeville.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in nearby towns like Elkhorn City, reachable via local roads such as **KY-197** and **KY-321**. These routes, while shorter, are often narrower and more winding, potentially increasing travel time and posing challenges for those with mobility limitations. The roads are also subject to weather-related closures, particularly during the winter months.

The drive times, while manageable for many, can become a significant barrier for individuals with chronic conditions, limited mobility, or those without personal transportation. The necessity of driving long distances underscores the importance of assessing alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit Availability:**

Public transportation options in Sextons Creek are extremely limited. This scarcity significantly impacts the overall health score. The lack of robust public transit presents a substantial challenge for residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

There is no formal bus system or fixed-route public transit operating directly within Sextons Creek. The absence of these services severely restricts healthcare access for a considerable portion of the population. The lack of ADA-compliant services also presents a significant obstacle for individuals with disabilities.

The closest semblance of public transportation might be available in neighboring towns, but these options are often infrequent, limited in scope, and may not directly serve Sextons Creek. Relying on these services would necessitate multiple transfers and potentially extended travel times.

The absence of readily available public transit necessitates a reliance on other modes of transportation, such as ride-sharing, medical transport, or personal assistance, to access healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is inconsistent and often limited. The availability of drivers in a rural area like Sextons Creek can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in the evenings. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for those who need to schedule medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are available, but their cost can be a substantial barrier to healthcare access. These services, often provided by specialized companies, offer transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. The cost of these services can be prohibitive for many residents, making them a less viable option for routine medical appointments.

Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **First Response Ambulance Service** provide medical transport, but their services are primarily geared toward emergency situations or long-distance transfers. The cost and scheduling constraints of these services limit their utility for regular healthcare needs.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services highlights the challenges of healthcare access in Sextons Creek. The cost, availability, and reliability of these services directly impact the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 40983 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with the scarcity of public transit and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, creates significant barriers to accessing healthcare.

The long drive times to major hospitals and the lack of readily available transportation options can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes. Individuals with mobility limitations, chronic conditions, or those without personal transportation are particularly vulnerable.

For those considering moving to Sextons Creek, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the potential difficulties of accessing healthcare when making their relocation decisions.

The overall health score reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure and expanded healthcare services within the community. Initiatives to enhance public transit, subsidize medical transport, or encourage the expansion of telehealth services could significantly improve healthcare access for residents of Sextons Creek and surrounding areas. The current situation necessitates careful planning and consideration for those seeking to maintain or improve their health while residing in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, area.