41240, Paintsville, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41240, Paintsville, Kentucky is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.66 percent of residents in 41240 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Paintsville Arh Hospital with a distance of 1.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 41240 (Paintsville, KY)

Considering a move to Paintsville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41240)? Your overall health and well-being are intrinsically linked to your ability to access necessary healthcare services. This assessment provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and surrounding this community. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, painting a detailed picture of the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The score considers a multifaceted approach, evaluating the accessibility of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, urgent care facilities, pharmacies, and mental health services. It takes into account the availability, reliability, and affordability of transportation options. This analysis aims to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your health and relocation.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For residents of Paintsville, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation. The primary artery for movement is the **Mountain Parkway**, providing a crucial link to larger regional healthcare hubs. Traveling east or west on the parkway offers swift passage, but potential delays due to accidents or construction can significantly impact drive times.

Within Paintsville, the primary thoroughfares, including **KY-321 (North Mayo Trail)** and **KY-40 (Broadway Street)**, serve as crucial connectors to local healthcare providers. These routes, while generally less congested than the parkway, can experience increased traffic during peak hours or special events. The condition of these roads, along with the hilly terrain characteristic of the region, should be considered when evaluating commute times.

A trip to the nearest hospital, **Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center**, located in Paintsville, typically requires a short drive, often less than 10 minutes, depending on the specific location within the city. However, access to specialized care might necessitate travel to larger cities. Driving to Lexington, approximately 120 miles west, could take around two hours via the Mountain Parkway, while a similar journey to Huntington, West Virginia, roughly 80 miles east, might consume around an hour and a half.

**Public Transportation: A Limited but Essential Option**

Public transportation in Paintsville, while present, is not as extensive as in more urban environments. The **Big Sandy Area Development District (BSADD)** operates a demand-response public transit system. This system, though limited in scope, provides a vital lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The BSADD service typically operates on a scheduled basis, requiring advance booking. While the system strives to accommodate riders with disabilities, ensuring ADA compliance, potential limitations in service frequency and geographic coverage should be considered. Specific route numbers are not typically assigned, as the service operates on a demand-response model, adjusting routes based on individual requests.

The availability of public transportation can be a significant factor for those considering moving to Paintsville, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. However, the reliance on advance scheduling and the potential for longer travel times should be carefully weighed against individual needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while present in some areas, may have limited availability in Paintsville. This can present challenges for those seeking on-demand transportation, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transportation services play a crucial role in facilitating access to healthcare for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several companies offer specialized transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services often require pre-booking and may involve additional costs.

Medical transport brands operating in the area include **MedTrans Corporation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**. These services provide a critical link for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transportation to appointments, dialysis centers, or other healthcare facilities. The availability and cost of these services should be factored into the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Perspective**

The healthcare landscape in Paintsville offers a mix of strengths and challenges. The presence of the **Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center** provides a local base for immediate care. However, access to specialized medical expertise often necessitates travel to larger cities.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. The ratio of physicians to residents, the types of specialists available, and the waiting times for appointments all contribute to the overall health score.

Pharmacy access is another important consideration. Paintsville has several local pharmacies, and access to prescription medications is generally considered to be good. However, the availability of 24-hour pharmacies or pharmacies with specialized services, such as compounding, may be more limited.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 41240 is influenced by a combination of factors. The availability of the **Mountain Parkway** and other roadways facilitates access to regional healthcare hubs, but travel times and potential delays must be considered. Public transportation, while available, has limitations in terms of frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing services may be limited, and medical transportation services are essential for those with specific needs.

The presence of a local hospital, **Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center**, provides a crucial base for healthcare, but access to specialized care may require travel. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals, along with pharmacy access, contributes to the overall score.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Paintsville**

If you are considering moving to Paintsville, carefully assess your individual healthcare needs and transportation requirements. If you rely on public transportation or have limited mobility, investigate the availability and accessibility of BSADD services. If you require specialized medical care, factor in travel times to regional healthcare centers.

Consider the availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transportation. Research the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals in the area. Understand the potential impact of road conditions and traffic on commute times.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Paintsville is the right place for you and your health. This assessment provides a starting point for a more in-depth exploration of healthcare access in this community.