Overall Health Score

41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.32 percent of residents in 41262 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Paintsville Arh Hospital with a distance of 12.28 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky

Overall Health Score 44
People Score 76
Provider Score 41
Hospital Score 34
Travel Score 33

Closest Hospital - PAINTSVILLE ARH HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 41262 Tomahawk Kentucky
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.51
1 Car 29.28 29.28 18.75
2 Cars 37.68 37.68 41.78
3 or More Cars 33.04 33.04 36.96

Vehicular Access in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky

Travel Score Review of 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Tomahawk, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41262)

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Tomahawk, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41262) presents a complex picture. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, the community faces unique challenges related to transportation and healthcare access. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive understanding for residents and those considering moving to Tomahawk.

The most significant factor influencing the health score is the geographic isolation. The mountainous terrain and limited infrastructure directly impact transportation options. The primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is personal vehicles. Residents typically rely on Highway 23 and Route 40 to reach healthcare facilities. Drive times vary considerably depending on the destination and the condition of the roads.

For routine appointments at the local Martin County Health Department, the commute is relatively short, typically under 15 minutes. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to larger regional centers. These destinations include facilities in Pikeville, Ashland, and Huntington, West Virginia. The drive to Pikeville, utilizing Highway 23, can take upwards of an hour, while Ashland, accessed via Route 40, might require a similar travel time. Huntington, further afield, could demand a two-hour drive, impacting the overall health score.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in Tomahawk. There is no established public bus system operating within the ZIP code. While the Martin County Senior Citizens Center offers transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, its scope is restricted. These services primarily cater to local needs, such as grocery shopping and essential errands, and may not always be readily available for medical appointments. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly hinders healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive.

The lack of public transportation exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance is a critical consideration, and the absence of accessible public transit poses a substantial barrier. Residents who rely on wheelchairs or other assistive devices face significant difficulties in reaching healthcare facilities. This deficiency negatively impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Tomahawk. The sparse population density and limited demand make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate. This leaves residents with very few alternatives to personal vehicles for transportation. The absence of ride-sharing further compounds the difficulties faced by those who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle.

Medical transport services are crucial for individuals requiring assistance to and from healthcare appointments. Several companies provide these services in the region, including medical transportation companies and local ambulance services. However, availability and cost are significant factors. Booking medical transport often requires advance notice, and the expenses can be substantial, particularly for long-distance trips. The reliance on these services, while essential for some, adds to the overall cost and complexity of accessing healthcare.

The availability of medical transport services, while vital, also presents challenges. Booking these services often requires advanced planning, potentially delaying access to care. The costs associated with medical transport can be significant, adding to the financial burden of healthcare. Furthermore, the reliability of these services can be affected by weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances, impacting the overall health score.

Considering the various factors, the overall health score for accessing healthcare in Tomahawk, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41262) is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The reliance on personal vehicles and the long drive times to specialized care facilities pose considerable challenges. The absence of public transit and ride-sharing services further compounds these difficulties, especially for those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.

The lack of readily available transportation options creates disparities in healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations. Residents without personal vehicles or those with limited mobility face significant barriers in reaching healthcare facilities. This underscores the need for innovative solutions to improve transportation and healthcare access in Tomahawk.

Improving the overall health score requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, even if it involves smaller, more localized services, could significantly enhance access. Exploring partnerships with regional transportation providers to extend services into Tomahawk could be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting ride-sharing programs or subsidizing medical transport for low-income residents could alleviate some of the financial burdens.

Another crucial aspect is addressing the social determinants of health. This includes improving access to affordable housing, healthy food options, and employment opportunities. These factors, combined with better transportation and healthcare access, contribute to a healthier community. This holistic approach is essential for improving the overall health score in Tomahawk.

For individuals considering moving to Tomahawk, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or ride-sharing should carefully evaluate the limited options available. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the drive times and potential transportation costs.

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Tomahawk is not static. It can be improved through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and social support systems. The community's commitment to addressing these challenges will determine the future health and well-being of its residents. The goal is to create a healthier and more accessible environment for everyone in Tomahawk.

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Health Scores Near 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky

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Health Scores in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky