41141, Garrison, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41141, Garrison, Kentucky is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.61 percent of residents in 41141 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is King's Daughters' Medical Center with a distance of 30.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Garrison, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41141)

Understanding the overall health score for a community requires a multifaceted examination, especially concerning something as crucial as **healthcare access**. This analysis focuses on the challenges and opportunities for residents of Garrison, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41141) when it comes to accessing medical services. A critical component of this assessment is the **transportation** landscape, which significantly shapes the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. This write-up details the available options, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses, to paint a comprehensive picture for anyone considering **moving to Garrison**.

The primary mode of transportation in and out of Garrison is by personal vehicle. The town's location in northeastern Kentucky, nestled along the Ohio River, necessitates reliance on roadways. The most direct route to larger healthcare facilities involves navigating US Route 23, a major north-south artery. This two-lane highway can be subject to congestion, especially during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times. The speed limit varies, and the road quality can fluctuate, influencing the overall commute experience.

Another key road is Kentucky Route 59, which provides a connection to the west and east. This route is generally less trafficked than US 23, but it also offers fewer options for accessing healthcare facilities directly. Residents may use this route to reach connecting roads that lead to hospitals in neighboring counties. The condition of Route 59, like US 23, can vary, impacting the comfort and safety of travel.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in assessing overall health. The nearest hospital, Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital in Ashland, Kentucky, is approximately a 45-minute to an hour’s drive via US 23, depending on traffic. This drive time can be a significant barrier for those with urgent medical needs or limited mobility. Other hospitals, such as King's Daughters Medical Center in Ashland or Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia, are further away, potentially extending the commute to over an hour. These longer travel times can impact patient outcomes, especially in emergency situations.

Public transit options in Garrison are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public transportation system, such as a bus network. This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with owning and maintaining a car. This limitation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The absence of accessible public transit also limits the potential for economic growth, as it restricts access to employment opportunities and other essential services.

While traditional public transit is absent, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, though their presence is not guaranteed. The availability of these services depends on driver density and demand, which can vary considerably. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The reliability of ride-sharing as a healthcare transportation option is, therefore, uncertain, and it may not be a viable solution for all residents.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically include non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), which provides rides to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and Logisticare, offering transportation services to Medicaid and Medicare recipients. These services require advance booking and may have limitations regarding the types of appointments they cover.

For individuals requiring ambulance services, the response time is a critical factor. Emergency medical services (EMS) are provided by local fire departments and ambulance services. Response times can vary depending on the location of the emergency and the availability of resources. The rural nature of the area may result in longer response times compared to urban settings, potentially impacting patient outcomes in critical situations.

The overall health score for Garrison, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41141) reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a degree of natural beauty and a close-knit community, the limited healthcare access due to transportation challenges presents a significant concern. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the potential for long drive times to medical facilities create barriers to accessing timely and appropriate healthcare. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but their limitations must be considered.

The community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transportation options, such as a demand-response transit system or a shuttle service to nearby hospitals. Collaborations with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be explored. Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, could help reduce the need for in-person visits.

Furthermore, attracting additional healthcare providers to the area, such as primary care physicians and specialists, would reduce the need for long-distance travel. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and expansion, would enhance the safety and efficiency of travel. These measures would contribute to a higher overall health score for the community.

For individuals considering moving to Garrison, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is paramount. Careful consideration should be given to personal mobility, healthcare needs, and the availability of support services. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the challenges associated with accessing healthcare should be weighed against the benefits of living in this rural community. This information is critical for anyone making an informed decision about their health and well-being.