42129, Edmonton, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42129, Edmonton, Kentucky is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.21 percent of residents in 42129 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is T J Samson Community Hospital with a distance of 16.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42129

Navigating the intricate web of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone, especially when contemplating a move. This assessment delves into the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP Code 42129, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical services. This evaluation aims to provide a clear picture for individuals and families seeking to understand the realities of accessing care in this area, particularly those considering moving to Edmonton, Kentucky.

The core of this analysis centers on the practicalities of getting to healthcare appointments. Transportation, the lifeblood of healthcare access, dictates the ease and speed with which residents can reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists. The efficiency and reliability of these transportation options directly impact the overall health score.

ZIP Code 42129, encompassing the town of Edmonton and surrounding areas in Metcalfe County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The area's rural nature means that residents often rely heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. This reliance underscores the importance of understanding drive times and the condition of the roads.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary factor in determining the health score. The primary routes to consider are Kentucky Highway 90, a major east-west artery, and Kentucky Highway 61, which runs north-south. Other local roads, such as Kentucky Highway 133 and 163, offer alternative routes, though they may be less direct.

The closest major healthcare provider is T.J. Samson Community Hospital in Glasgow, approximately a 25-30 minute drive via KY-90. This drive time, while manageable, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours. Specialized care, such as that offered by the Medical Center at Bowling Green, requires a longer commute, approximately 45-60 minutes via I-65 South or KY-90 East to US-31W South. These longer drives can be particularly challenging for those with mobility issues or chronic conditions.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. There is no established public bus system operating within ZIP Code 42129 or providing direct routes to healthcare facilities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The absence of readily available public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative modes, which can be less reliable and more expensive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be limited compared to more urban areas. This can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a critical factor, and their availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Local ambulance services, such as Metcalfe County EMS, provide emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are essential for those with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. However, the availability of non-emergency medical transport may be limited and require advance scheduling.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation options is a vital consideration. While ride-sharing services and medical transport providers typically strive to offer accessible vehicles, their availability may not always be guaranteed. The lack of a public transit system with ADA-compliant buses further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 42129 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for longer commute times for specialized care can negatively impact the health score.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of preventative care services within the community. Access to primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare providers is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance from ZIP Code 42129 contributes positively to the health score.

For those considering moving to Edmonton and seeking to understand the healthcare landscape, it is imperative to assess individual needs and transportation capabilities. Those without personal vehicles may find healthcare access more challenging. Careful consideration of these factors is essential when evaluating the suitability of this area.

The overall health score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations should research medical transport options and establish relationships with healthcare providers before relocating. Understanding the limitations of transportation options is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care.

The health score for ZIP Code 42129 is a complex metric influenced by a variety of factors. The absence of robust public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for longer drive times to specialized care contribute to a moderate score. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some relief, but their limitations must be acknowledged.

In conclusion, while ZIP Code 42129 offers access to healthcare, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges that can impact the overall health score. Individuals considering moving to Edmonton should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure access to the healthcare services they require. Proactive planning and an understanding of the available transportation options are essential for navigating the healthcare landscape in this rural Kentucky community.