41222, Hagerhill, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41222, Hagerhill, Kentucky is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.42 percent of residents in 41222 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Paintsville Arh Hospital with a distance of 2.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 41222

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 41222, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. This score considers the various methods available for reaching medical facilities, weighing their efficiency, availability, and accessibility. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Hagerhill or residing within this area.

ZIP Code 41222, encompassing Hagerhill, Kentucky, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area's rural nature significantly influences transportation options, demanding a nuanced assessment. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the challenges and opportunities faced by residents seeking medical attention.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation in this region is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The road network dictates the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. Key highways and roads play a critical role.

To the west, residents rely on **US Route 460**, a vital artery connecting Hagerhill to larger towns and cities. Driving to the nearest hospital, Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center in Paintsville, necessitates a journey along this route. The drive, under ideal conditions, typically takes around 25 to 35 minutes, covering approximately 20 miles. However, traffic, weather, and road conditions can significantly extend this timeframe.

Heading east, **Kentucky Route 172** offers another option, albeit a more winding and potentially slower one. This route connects Hagerhill to smaller communities and eventually intersects with US Route 23, providing access to more distant healthcare facilities. This route is less direct, adding time and distance to the commute.

The condition of these roads is a significant factor. Potholes, narrow lanes, and limited shoulders can pose safety risks and increase travel times. Regular maintenance and improvements are essential for ensuring efficient and safe transportation.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 41222 are limited. Johnson County, where Hagerhill is located, has a small public transit system, but it may not extend to all areas of the ZIP code. The availability of fixed-route buses is unlikely.

The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This situation underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not consistently available in rural areas like Hagerhill. Their presence and reliability are unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This limitation restricts access to healthcare for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services, however, often come at a higher cost than personal transportation or public transit, presenting a financial barrier for some residents.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility standards for public transportation and medical facilities. In the context of ZIP Code 41222, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles raise concerns about ADA compliance. Ensuring that medical facilities have accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms is paramount. Furthermore, the availability of accessible transportation options, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Overall Health Score Calculation:**

The "Overall Health Score" for transportation to healthcare in ZIP Code 41222 is based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Drive-time, the primary mode of transport, receives the highest weight. Public transit availability and accessibility are given a moderate weight, while ride-sharing and medical transport options receive a lower weight due to their limited availability and higher costs.

The score is also influenced by the quality of the road infrastructure, the presence of ADA-compliant facilities, and the affordability of medical transportation services. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare, while a lower score reflects significant challenges.

**Score Interpretation:**

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 41222 is considered to be **moderate**. While residents have access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, the lack of reliable public transit, the potential for long drive times, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services negatively impact the score.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several initiatives are recommended. Investing in road infrastructure improvements, including resurfacing and widening roads, is crucial. Exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit options, even on a limited basis, could significantly benefit residents.

Promoting ride-sharing services and subsidizing medical transportation for low-income individuals would enhance access to healthcare. Furthermore, ensuring all medical facilities are fully ADA-compliant is essential.

**Conclusion:**

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and transportation plays a critical role in ensuring this access. For residents of ZIP Code 41222, the current transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. While personal vehicles offer the primary means of reaching medical facilities, the lack of public transit, the potential for long drive times, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create barriers. By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, the "Overall Health Score" can be elevated, ensuring that all residents of Hagerhill have equitable access to the healthcare they need. This is a vital consideration for anyone moving to Hagerhill, as it directly impacts their well-being and quality of life.