41257, Stambaugh, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41257, Stambaugh, Kentucky is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.43 percent of residents in 41257 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Paintsville Arh Hospital with a distance of 4.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 41257

This report analyzes the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 41257 (Stambaugh, Kentucky), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access through transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and efficiently is a cornerstone of public health, and this assessment considers the available modes of transportation, travel times, and potential barriers to care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare within and beyond the boundaries of Stambaugh. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Stambaugh**, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The primary mode of transportation in this rural area is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. The geography of Stambaugh and surrounding areas dictates that residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for nearly all travel, including healthcare appointments. The road network, though relatively sparse, is crucial. The primary artery is US Route 23, a major north-south thoroughfare. Travel times on US Route 23 to healthcare facilities in nearby towns like Paintsville and Prestonsburg can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location of the destination.

To the west, Kentucky Route 321 provides access to smaller communities and potentially alternative healthcare options. However, this route is often winding and can experience slower travel times. The secondary roads, such as KY 1428 and KY 1092, offer access to more remote areas but are generally less well-maintained and may pose challenges during inclement weather. These roads are vital for residents located further from the main routes, impacting their **healthcare access**.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor in the overall health score. A general practitioner's office in Paintsville, approximately 15 miles north via US Route 23, might take 20-30 minutes in ideal conditions. A trip to the Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center in Paintsville could extend to 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the hospital complex. Travel to specialized care facilities or hospitals in larger cities like Lexington or Huntington (West Virginia) necessitates a journey of several hours, adding considerable stress and time constraints to the process of receiving care.

Public transportation options in Stambaugh are extremely limited. The area's rural nature and low population density make the establishment of extensive public transit networks economically unfeasible. There is no readily available bus service or train line within the immediate vicinity of 41257. This lack of public transportation significantly disadvantages individuals who do not own vehicles, cannot drive due to age or disability, or face financial constraints that limit their ability to maintain a car. The absence of public transit presents a major barrier to **transportation** and, consequently, **healthcare access**.

The absence of accessible public transit underscores the importance of considering ride-sharing services. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in some larger cities, their presence in Stambaugh is likely limited or non-existent. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing could be prohibitive for many residents, particularly those with lower incomes or chronic health conditions requiring frequent medical appointments. This further exacerbates the challenges of **healthcare access** in the area.

Medical transport services are another crucial component of the health score. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, but their availability and response times can be impacted by the rural location and the distance to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, which transport individuals to and from medical appointments, may be available through local providers or insurance plans. However, the availability and reliability of these services can vary, and residents may face difficulties in securing timely transportation, especially for appointments scheduled during peak hours or in inclement weather.

The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features in the available transportation options is another critical factor. The lack of accessible public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services can create significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations is essential for ensuring that all residents can access healthcare services. The absence of these features further restricts **healthcare access** for a vulnerable population.

The overall health score for 41257 is significantly impacted by the challenges in **transportation** to **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential constraints of ride-sharing and medical transport services create a complex landscape for residents seeking medical care. The distance to healthcare facilities, the cost of transportation, and the availability of accessible options all contribute to the overall score.

The score also considers the impact of the physical environment. The mountainous terrain and winding roads can make travel more difficult, especially during winter months when snow and ice are common. This can lead to delays in reaching healthcare facilities and increase the risk of accidents. The lack of sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure further limits the options for those who may want to walk or cycle to appointments.

The socio-economic factors of the community also play a role. Poverty rates in rural areas are often higher than in urban areas, and this can impact access to healthcare. Residents with lower incomes may struggle to afford the cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, which can have a negative impact on health outcomes.

The availability of healthcare providers within the community is another crucial factor. The presence of a primary care physician, specialists, and other healthcare professionals can improve access to care and reduce the need for long-distance travel. However, rural areas often face a shortage of healthcare providers, which can further limit access to care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 41257 is negatively impacted by the limitations in **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the potential constraints of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant challenges for **healthcare access**. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including exploring opportunities for improved public transit, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring that medical transport services are readily available and accessible to all residents. For those **moving to Stambaugh**, understanding these limitations is vital to planning for their healthcare needs.