42274, Rockfield, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42274, Rockfield, Kentucky is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.32 percent of residents in 42274 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greenview Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Rockfield, KY (ZIP Code 42274)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Rockfield, Kentucky (ZIP code 42274), focusing on transportation options available for accessing medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering insights for current residents and those considering **moving to Rockfield**.

Rockfield, a small community nestled in Warren County, Kentucky, offers a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to larger urban centers. However, its location presents specific challenges when it comes to **healthcare access**. The "Overall Health Score" aims to quantify these challenges and opportunities, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape impacting residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Rockfield is personal vehicle. The reliance on cars necessitates an understanding of drive times to various medical facilities. The closest major healthcare hub is Bowling Green, approximately 10-15 minutes away via US-31W (Nashville Road). This highway provides a relatively direct route to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices.

For more specialized care or access to a wider range of medical professionals, residents may need to travel further. Nashville, Tennessee, roughly an hour's drive south via I-65, offers a plethora of advanced medical facilities. However, this longer commute can significantly impact the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The condition of roadways also plays a critical role. US-31W is generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend drive times. I-65, while a major interstate, is subject to construction and occasional delays. The availability of alternative routes, such as local roads, is limited, increasing the reliance on these primary thoroughfares.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Rockfield and the surrounding areas are limited. The Bowling Green Transit System (BGTS) operates a fixed-route bus service within the city limits of Bowling Green. However, this service does not extend to Rockfield. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or economically disadvantaged.

While the BGTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, the lack of service to Rockfield renders this feature irrelevant for residents of this ZIP code. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score," highlighting a critical gap in **transportation** infrastructure for medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bowling Green and surrounding areas, including Rockfield. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to urgent medical needs. The reliability of ride-sharing for routine medical appointments is also a concern.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for individuals who require assistance with transportation. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, providing services ranging from basic transportation to advanced medical support. These services, while valuable, can be expensive, creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents. The availability of these services is also subject to scheduling and availability, which can be a challenge in emergency situations.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport companies operate in the Bowling Green and Rockfield area. These include, but are not limited to, companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and those providing ambulance services. Availability, cost, and the specific services offered vary between providers.

**Overall Health Score and Implications:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Rockfield, KY (ZIP code 42274) is moderately positive, but with significant areas for improvement. The proximity to Bowling Green provides relatively quick access to basic medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges for many residents.

The lack of public transportation is a major detractor, particularly for those who cannot drive. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can also create a financial barrier to **healthcare access**. The "Overall Health Score" would improve significantly with the expansion of public transit services to Rockfield or the implementation of a community-based transportation program tailored to medical needs.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for Rockfield, several initiatives are recommended. First, advocating for the expansion of the Bowling Green Transit System to include Rockfield would dramatically improve **healthcare access**. Second, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could alleviate some of the financial burden. Third, promoting awareness of existing medical transport services and ensuring their affordability would be beneficial.

Finally, community outreach programs that educate residents about available **transportation** options and resources are crucial. These programs should target vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with disabilities. These initiatives will enhance the overall health and well-being of the Rockfield community.

For individuals **moving to Rockfield**, it is essential to consider the **transportation** challenges associated with **healthcare access**. While the community offers a desirable quality of life, the limited options for getting to medical appointments should be carefully evaluated. Prioritizing a reliable vehicle, understanding the cost of ride-sharing, and exploring medical transport options are crucial considerations. The "Overall Health Score" can be improved through community initiatives and individual planning, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the medical care they need.