41174, South Portsmouth, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41174, South Portsmouth, Kentucky is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.55 percent of residents in 41174 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is King's Daughters' Medical Center with a distance of 26.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 41174

This assessment delves into the complexities of healthcare access within ZIP code 41174, encompassing South Portsmouth, Kentucky. We'll evaluate the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering various transportation options and their impact on overall health. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for anyone considering moving to South Portsmouth, Kentucky, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access.

The core of this evaluation hinges on the concept of an "Overall Health Score." This score reflects the combined accessibility of healthcare, factoring in commute times, transportation availability, and the presence of specialized medical services. A higher score indicates superior access, while a lower score suggests potential difficulties in reaching necessary medical care. Our analysis considers the unique geographical context of South Portsmouth, a rural community nestled along the Ohio River, where transportation limitations are a significant factor.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in South Portsmouth is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The road network, however, presents both advantages and disadvantages. Residents primarily rely on US-23, a major north-south artery, and KY-8, which follows the Ohio River. These highways provide the most direct routes to larger towns and cities where comprehensive healthcare facilities are located.

Driving to the nearest hospitals and clinics in Portsmouth, Ohio, typically involves a short trip across the Ohio River. The journey via US-23 and the Carl D. Perkins Bridge usually takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the Overall Health Score. However, adverse weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying access to critical care.

Further afield, access to more specialized medical services often necessitates longer drives. Trips to Ashland, Kentucky, approximately 30 miles south, via US-23, can take around 45 minutes to an hour. This longer commute increases the time commitment and the potential for stress, negatively impacting the Overall Health Score. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, further exacerbates these challenges.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in South Portsmouth are extremely limited. The local transit authority may offer demand-response services, such as dial-a-ride, but these are often restricted to specific hours and require advance booking. This severely limits their utility for urgent medical needs or routine appointments.

There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve South Portsmouth and connect it to the larger healthcare hubs in Portsmouth or Ashland. This absence of reliable public transit significantly lowers the Overall Health Score, especially for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The lack of accessible public transportation is a major barrier to healthcare access in this community.

Furthermore, the lack of ADA-compliant features on any available public transportation further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities. The absence of wheelchair lifts, ramps, and other accessibility accommodations limits their ability to independently access healthcare facilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may operate in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The relatively low population density of South Portsmouth may limit the frequency and reliability of these services. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This uncertainty negatively affects the Overall Health Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, can be crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves. However, these services often come at a higher cost, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access for some residents. The availability and cost of these services are essential considerations when evaluating the Overall Health Score.

**Medical Facilities and Specialized Services: A Critical Factor**

The availability of healthcare facilities within South Portsmouth itself is limited. Residents typically need to travel to neighboring towns and cities for comprehensive medical care. The presence of primary care physicians, urgent care clinics, and pharmacies in the immediate vicinity is essential for providing accessible healthcare.

The availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, and surgery, is also a critical factor. The absence of these services within a reasonable distance necessitates longer travel times, potentially increasing the risk of delayed or inadequate care. The Overall Health Score is significantly impacted by the proximity and availability of these specialized services.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Considering all factors, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in ZIP code 41174 is moderate. The relatively short drive to Portsmouth, Ohio, provides reasonable access to some medical services. However, the limitations of public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the need for longer drives to access specialized care significantly reduce the score.

Individuals considering moving to South Portsmouth should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those without access to a personal vehicle or those requiring specialized medical services may face significant challenges in accessing timely and appropriate care. The lack of convenient public transportation and the potential for long travel times are crucial considerations.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving the Overall Health Score for South Portsmouth requires addressing the transportation and healthcare access challenges. Investing in public transportation, including expanding routes and ensuring ADA compliance, is crucial. Encouraging ride-sharing services to operate more reliably in the area would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, attracting more healthcare providers to the area, including primary care physicians and specialists, would significantly improve access to care. Promoting telehealth services could also help bridge the gap, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Ultimately, the Overall Health Score for ZIP code 41174 reflects a community that faces unique challenges in accessing healthcare. While the proximity to Portsmouth offers some advantages, the limitations in transportation and the need for longer travel times to access specialized services highlight the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents. This assessment provides a crucial framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and the importance of addressing these challenges to promote the well-being of the community.