41169, Russell, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41169, Russell, Kentucky is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.04 percent of residents in 41169 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is King's Daughters' Medical Center with a distance of 5.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Russell, KY (ZIP Code 41169)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Russell, Kentucky (ZIP code 41169) necessitates a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access. A significant factor in this equation is transportation, the vital link connecting individuals to the medical services they require. This write-up will explore the available transportation options, detailing drive times, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport, ultimately evaluating the ease with which residents can reach healthcare facilities. This information is particularly pertinent for anyone considering moving to Russell, as healthcare accessibility is a fundamental aspect of quality of life.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Russell is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Russell's geographical location, nestled along the Ohio River, influences the road network. The major artery is U.S. Route 23, which snakes through the city and connects it to Ashland, Kentucky, and beyond. Traveling north on Route 23 provides access to Ashland’s medical facilities, including King's Daughters Medical Center, a comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of specialties. The drive time to King's Daughters from various points within Russell typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific origin point.

Another important route is Interstate 64, which offers a faster, albeit less direct, route to Ashland and other regional medical centers. Access to I-64 is gained via various local roads, adding a few minutes to the overall travel time. The condition of these local roads, such as Bellefonte-Russell Road and Argillite Road, can impact travel times, particularly during inclement weather. These routes are essential for anyone moving to Russell, as they directly impact healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Russell are limited. The Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) provides bus service throughout the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, which includes Russell. However, the routes serving Russell are infrequent and primarily focus on connecting residential areas to commercial centers. The TTA does offer some routes that pass near medical facilities in Ashland, but these routes may involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The TTA strives to be ADA-compliant, with buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations. For someone moving to Russell, the reliance on public transit for healthcare access is not ideal.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Russell area, offering a more flexible transportation option compared to public transit. However, the availability of ride-share services can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. While ride-share services can provide a convenient way to reach healthcare appointments, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips. The distance to Ashland and the potential for surge pricing during peak hours should be considered.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services cater to patients who may have difficulty driving or using public transportation. Several medical transport providers operate in the Russell area, including local ambulance services and specialized transportation companies. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility aids.

The cost of medical transportation services can vary depending on the provider, the distance traveled, and the level of assistance required. While these services provide a valuable resource for individuals with specific needs, the cost can be a barrier to access for some. For those moving to Russell, it is important to research the availability and cost of these services.

Evaluating the overall health score for Russell residents, considering the transportation landscape, reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to Ashland and its medical facilities offers convenient access for those with personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit and the cost of ride-share and medical transport services create challenges for certain segments of the population. The reliance on personal vehicles, particularly for those living in more remote areas of the ZIP code, can be a disadvantage.

The ease of healthcare access in Russell is also impacted by the availability of healthcare providers within the city itself. While Russell has some local clinics and medical offices, residents often need to travel to Ashland for specialized care. This necessitates reliance on the available transportation options, further highlighting the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access.

The overall health score for Russell is therefore moderately positive. Residents with personal vehicles enjoy relatively easy access to healthcare facilities in Ashland. However, those who rely on public transit, ride-share services, or medical transport may face challenges due to limited service options and associated costs. For anyone moving to Russell, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial.

Ultimately, the overall health score is influenced by the interplay of transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare providers, and the socioeconomic factors that impact access to care. While Russell offers certain advantages in terms of proximity to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with alternative transportation methods must be carefully considered. The healthcare access landscape in Russell is evolving, and ongoing efforts to improve public transportation, expand ride-share availability, and provide affordable medical transport options will contribute to a higher overall health score for the community.