42223, Fort Campbell, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42223, Fort Campbell, Kentucky is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.35 percent of residents in 42223 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blanchfield Ach (Ft Campbell) with a distance of 1.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42223

Navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 42223, encompassing the Fort Campbell area, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options and their impact on overall health. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability. This score, while not a numerical value, reflects the relative ease or difficulty residents face in accessing medical care, a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Fort Campbell or residing within the area.

The primary consideration is the commute itself. Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. The proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas significantly influences the ease of access. Fort Campbell Boulevard, the major artery, provides direct routes to several medical providers. Accessing facilities further afield, however, demands travel on highways like the Pennyrile Parkway, which connects to I-24, or the Western Kentucky Parkway. These routes, while efficient, are subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, potentially delaying access to crucial medical services.

Drive times vary depending on the destination and time of day. Routine check-ups at clinics within Fort Campbell might require a short commute, perhaps 10-15 minutes. Specialty care or hospital visits in Clarksville, Tennessee, or Hopkinsville, Kentucky, could extend travel times to 30-45 minutes or longer, particularly during rush hour. Weather conditions, such as rain or fog, can further complicate commutes, increasing the risk of accidents and delaying arrival at appointments. This variability underscores the importance of planning and preparedness for healthcare access.

Public transportation, while available, presents limitations. The Clarksville Transit System (CTS) offers bus routes that serve some areas within ZIP Code 42223. However, these routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers or longer travel times. The frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can also be a barrier to access. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. CTS buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the overall effectiveness of public transit for healthcare access depends on the specific route and individual needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option. These services offer on-demand rides, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, ride-sharing availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. For those without personal vehicles or unable to drive, ride-sharing provides a valuable, albeit potentially expensive, solution.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services, often offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services offer a vital lifeline for those who cannot drive or use public transit, they are often the most expensive option. Insurance coverage for medical transport varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be a significant burden.

The availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP Code also influences the overall health score. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals within close proximity reduces the need for extensive travel. Fort Campbell's on-post medical facilities offer a range of services, but access may be limited to eligible beneficiaries. Off-post healthcare options in Clarksville and Hopkinsville provide additional choices, but they also necessitate longer commutes. The density of healthcare providers and the ease of accessing them directly impact the overall health score.

The overall health score in ZIP Code 42223 is a mixed bag. While the area benefits from the presence of on-post medical facilities and access to major highways, challenges exist in terms of commute times, public transit limitations, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport. For those without reliable transportation, healthcare access can be significantly hampered.

For individuals moving to Fort Campbell, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Assessing the location of healthcare providers relative to housing options is a critical step. Exploring the availability of public transit routes and ride-sharing services is also recommended. Understanding the potential costs associated with transportation and the impact on healthcare access is vital for ensuring overall well-being.

The ability to proactively plan for healthcare transportation is crucial. Scheduling appointments during off-peak hours, when traffic congestion is less severe, can reduce commute times. Exploring the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can eliminate the need for travel altogether. Building relationships with healthcare providers and understanding their preferred methods of communication can also streamline access.

The overall health score is not static. It can be improved through community initiatives that enhance public transit, promote ride-sharing programs, and increase the availability of affordable medical transport. Collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations can create a more accessible and equitable healthcare environment for all residents of ZIP Code 42223. The goal is to minimize the barriers to healthcare access and ensure that all individuals can receive the medical care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.