42166, Summer Shade, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42166, Summer Shade, Kentucky is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.71 percent of residents in 42166 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monroe County Medical Center with a distance of 12.39 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42166

Summer Shade, Kentucky, nestled within the rolling hills of Metcalfe County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly for those considering **moving to Summer Shade**, is understanding **healthcare access**. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the commute to healthcare facilities from ZIP Code 42166, considering various **transportation** options.

The score is based on factors including drive times, availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. We’ll delve into the specifics, providing a comprehensive overview to aid in informed decision-making. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary consideration for residents of 42166 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Glasgow and Edmonton, Kentucky. Driving to T.J. Samson Community Hospital in Glasgow, a regional hub, typically involves a journey along Kentucky Route 63, a two-lane highway that meanders through the scenic countryside. The distance is approximately 20 miles, and under ideal conditions, the drive takes about 30 minutes. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can extend this time.

Another route involves traveling along Kentucky Route 90, which then connects to the Louie B. Nunn Parkway. This route offers a slightly faster option, especially for those residing in the western portion of the ZIP code. The Louie B. Nunn Parkway provides a more direct and higher-speed connection to Glasgow.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Bowling Green, approximately 50 miles away, offers access to larger hospitals and specialist physicians. The journey to Bowling Green involves navigating Kentucky Route 63 to Interstate 65. The drive, while primarily on a well-maintained interstate, can take up to an hour, depending on traffic.

Edmonton, the county seat and home to Metcalfe County Healthcare, is closer, about 15 minutes away. The route primarily utilizes Kentucky Route 61. However, the facility's size and scope of services are more limited compared to the hospitals in Glasgow or Bowling Green.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public **transportation** in this rural area is significantly limited. The Metcalfe County Fiscal Court operates a demand-response system, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while essential for those with mobility challenges, requires advance booking and may not be suitable for immediate medical needs. The service operates within Metcalfe County and can transport residents to healthcare facilities within the county and potentially to Glasgow.

There is no fixed-route bus service connecting Summer Shade to Glasgow or Bowling Green. This lack of readily available public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The absence of reliable public **transportation** significantly impacts the **healthcare access** score. The lack of routes and ADA features limits the overall score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, though their presence is not guaranteed, and their availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing is a variable that must be considered.

Medical **transportation** services are available, including ambulance services for emergencies. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, such as Bluegrass Medical Transport, may offer transportation to scheduled appointments. These services, while crucial for those unable to drive, typically require pre-booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services is a vital component of the **healthcare access** picture.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** from ZIP Code 42166 is moderate. While the area benefits from relatively short drive times to nearby healthcare facilities in Glasgow and Edmonton, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options pose significant challenges. The absence of reliable and affordable public transit is a major drawback.

For individuals considering **moving to Summer Shade**, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs and potential medical requirements is crucial. Those without reliable access to a personal vehicle may face difficulties in accessing routine medical care. It is recommended that prospective residents investigate the availability and cost of NEMT services and consider the potential impact of limited **healthcare access** on their overall well-being.

Here are some recommendations for residents of 42166:

* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician:** This is essential for coordinating care and navigating the healthcare system.
* **Explore NEMT options:** Research and pre-arrange medical transport services for scheduled appointments.
* **Consider the location of healthcare facilities:** Factor in drive times and potential traffic when choosing a healthcare provider.
* **Investigate the availability of telehealth services:** Telehealth can provide access to healthcare professionals remotely.
* **Stay informed about local healthcare initiatives:** Keep abreast of any programs or services designed to improve **healthcare access** in the area.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" reflects the complexities of **healthcare access** in a rural setting. While Summer Shade offers a peaceful environment, residents must carefully consider the limitations of **transportation** options and the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. Understanding these factors is critical for ensuring a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle, especially for those contemplating **moving to Summer Shade**. The availability of medical **transportation** is key to the health of the community.