41183, Worthington, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41183, Worthington, Kentucky is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.75 percent of residents in 41183 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Three Rivers Medical Center with a distance of 30.97 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Worthington, KY (ZIP Code 41183)

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Worthington, Kentucky (ZIP code 41183) requires a comprehensive look at transportation options. This analysis goes beyond mere proximity, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This data is crucial for anyone considering moving to Worthington, ensuring they can readily access necessary healthcare services.

The primary mode of transportation in Worthington and the surrounding area is personal vehicle. Driving is the most direct route to healthcare facilities, and the quality of roads and highways directly impacts the overall health score. From Worthington, the most common routes to healthcare centers involve navigating US Route 23, a major north-south artery. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing drive times.

For residents needing specialized care or services unavailable locally, travel along the AA Highway (KY-9) may be required. This highway provides access to larger medical centers in Ashland and beyond. The condition of these highways and the potential for traffic delays are essential factors in calculating the health score, as they directly affect the timeliness of healthcare access.

Public transportation options within Worthington and the broader region are limited. The Ashland Area Transit Authority (AATA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent. The AATA operates several routes, but none directly serve the heart of Worthington. This significantly reduces the health score for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Furthermore, the AATA's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, are essential considerations for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent. Demand, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, may lead to longer wait times or surge pricing. This adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, particularly for urgent care needs. The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services directly influence the health score, especially for those without other transportation options.

Medical transport services are available, but their use is typically reserved for emergencies or patients with specific medical needs. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot travel independently. However, the cost and availability of these services are important factors to consider.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Worthington, KY, is moderate. While driving provides relatively straightforward access to nearby healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the potential for traffic delays on US Route 23 and the AA Highway (KY-9) create challenges. The health score is further impacted by the need to rely on medical transport services for those with limited mobility or emergencies.

Considering the drive times is a critical factor. A typical drive to the nearest urgent care facility in Ashland, via US Route 23, could take approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this drive time could easily extend to 30 minutes or more. Travel to larger hospitals or specialist clinics in Ashland or Huntington, WV, via the AA Highway (KY-9) can take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. These drive times are critical for assessing the health score, as they directly affect the speed and efficiency of healthcare access.

The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the health score. The AATA's limited route coverage and infrequent schedules make it an impractical option for many residents, especially those with mobility limitations or those needing timely access to medical appointments. The absence of direct routes serving Worthington exacerbates this challenge, forcing residents to rely on other, often less convenient, transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services offer a potential alternative, but their reliability and cost are significant considerations. The availability of Uber and Lyft can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The potential for surge pricing can also make these services expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments. This uncertainty and cost factor negatively impact the health score, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services provide a crucial safety net for emergencies and patients with specific medical needs. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited. The reliance on medical transport services underscores the challenges of healthcare access in Worthington, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The overall health score is also affected by the availability of healthcare providers within Worthington itself. The presence of local clinics, primary care physicians, and pharmacies positively impacts the health score, as they reduce the need for travel to larger medical centers. However, the availability of specialized medical services in Worthington may be limited, requiring residents to travel to Ashland or Huntington for more specialized care.

For individuals considering moving to Worthington, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The health score is not just about the availability of healthcare facilities; it's about the ease and efficiency of accessing those facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic delays on US Route 23 and the AA Highway (KY-9) create challenges that must be considered.

The health score also reflects the importance of community resources and support systems. The presence of volunteer drivers, community transportation programs, and support groups for patients with chronic conditions can significantly improve healthcare access and the overall health score. These resources can help bridge the gap created by the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Worthington, KY (ZIP code 41183) is moderate. While driving provides relatively straightforward access to nearby healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, the inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the potential for traffic delays create challenges. For those considering moving to Worthington, a thorough assessment of individual transportation needs and the availability of local support systems is essential to ensure adequate healthcare access. The health score is a dynamic measure that reflects the complex interplay of transportation infrastructure, healthcare provider availability, and community resources.