41701, Hazard, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 41701, Hazard, Kentucky is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.71 percent of residents in 41701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hazard Arh Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 41701

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Hazard, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41701) requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical factor influencing this score is the **transportation** infrastructure and the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This write-up will explore the various modes of **transportation** available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** challenges and opportunities. For those considering **moving to Hazard**, understanding these nuances is paramount.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents in 41701 is the personal vehicle. The geographical layout of Hazard and the surrounding Perry County necessitates reliance on roadways. Reaching the primary healthcare hub, Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center, often involves navigating winding mountain roads. From many residential areas, the journey begins on local roads that converge onto the main arteries.

Highway 15 serves as a vital north-south corridor, connecting Hazard to surrounding communities and providing direct access to the hospital. The drive time along Highway 15 varies depending on the starting point within the ZIP code, but it typically ranges from 5 to 20 minutes. Traffic congestion is generally minimal, except during peak hours or when adverse weather conditions prevail, especially during the winter months.

Highway 80, another critical route, offers access to healthcare facilities located outside of Hazard. This highway facilitates travel to larger regional medical centers, such as those in Lexington, Kentucky, which can be crucial for specialized care. However, the drive to Lexington, a journey of approximately 120 miles, can take upwards of two to three hours, significantly impacting **healthcare access** for those requiring specialized treatments or consultations.

Alternative routes, like the lesser-known roads that crisscross the county, can offer shorter travel times for residents in more remote locations. However, these roads are often narrow, winding, and subject to potential hazards like landslides or poor road conditions, especially during inclement weather. This makes them less reliable for urgent medical needs.

Public **transportation** options within Hazard are limited. The Perry County Transit Authority operates a demand-response system, offering door-to-door service. However, the service is primarily designed for essential trips, including medical appointments, and requires advance booking. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the service. The service's operating hours and the number of vehicles available may also pose challenges, especially for those needing urgent care or appointments outside of regular business hours.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Hazard. Availability is often sporadic, and wait times can be considerable, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for those with immediate medical needs or those who cannot afford the potentially higher costs associated with limited availability.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, but the response time can be affected by the geographical challenges and the location of the nearest ambulance station.

NEMT providers, such as local companies or national brands, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the availability of NEMT services can be limited, and booking in advance is often required. The cost of NEMT services can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited financial resources.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 41701 is influenced by the interplay of these **transportation** factors. While the presence of Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center provides a local healthcare hub, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options pose challenges. The long travel times to specialized medical facilities in larger cities, coupled with the potential unreliability of ride-sharing and NEMT services, contribute to a lower overall score.

For individuals considering **moving to Hazard**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is essential. Those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should carefully evaluate the availability of NEMT services and the accessibility of public **transportation**. Understanding the potential travel times to specialized medical facilities and the potential impact of adverse weather conditions on **transportation** is crucial.

The healthcare landscape in Hazard is evolving. Efforts to improve **healthcare access** include initiatives to expand telehealth services, which can reduce the need for travel to medical appointments. Furthermore, investments in public **transportation** and ride-sharing programs could enhance the accessibility of healthcare services for all residents.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 41701 is a complex metric, influenced by a multitude of factors. While the presence of a local hospital is a significant advantage, the geographical challenges, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing and NEMT services contribute to a lower overall score. For individuals considering **moving to Hazard**, a careful evaluation of their individual healthcare needs and their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is paramount to ensuring their well-being. The future of **healthcare access** in Hazard will depend on continued efforts to improve **transportation** infrastructure, expand telehealth services, and enhance the availability of specialized medical care.