42328, Centertown, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42328, Centertown, Kentucky is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.36 percent of residents in 42328 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 6.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42328 (Centertown, Kentucky)

Centertown, Kentucky, nestled within the 42328 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare access. Assessing the overall health score requires a deep dive into transportation infrastructure, the availability of medical facilities, and the practicalities of navigating the region. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Centertown or evaluating their current situation.

The primary artery connecting Centertown to the broader healthcare network is the Wendell H. Ford Western Kentucky Parkway. This limited-access highway offers relatively swift access to larger medical centers, particularly those located in Owensboro, Kentucky. However, relying solely on the parkway can be problematic, as it necessitates personal vehicle ownership and is susceptible to traffic incidents.

Secondary roads, such as Kentucky Route 54 and Kentucky Route 69, serve as vital connectors, offering alternative routes and access to local clinics and medical offices. These roads, however, are often characterized by slower speeds, potential for congestion, and a higher likelihood of encountering adverse weather conditions. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact healthcare access.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the destination and the mode of transportation. Owensboro, the nearest city with a comprehensive medical infrastructure, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive via the Western Kentucky Parkway. This drive time, while manageable, can be a significant barrier for individuals requiring frequent medical attention or facing urgent health concerns. Shorter drive times are possible to local clinics and physician offices within the surrounding communities, but the scope of services offered may be limited.

Public transportation options within the 42328 ZIP code are severely limited. Centertown, like many rural communities, lacks a robust public transit system. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport for healthcare access. This presents a challenge for individuals without access to a car, the elderly, or those with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Owensboro area, but their presence in Centertown and the surrounding rural areas is inconsistent. The availability of ride-sharing is often contingent on driver availability and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher fares. This can be a significant obstacle for individuals needing timely access to medical appointments or emergency care.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized transportation. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically cater to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related destinations.

The availability of NEMT services is essential for ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, and scheduling appointments often requires advance planning. Furthermore, the coverage area of NEMT providers may vary, potentially limiting access to specialized medical facilities located outside the immediate region.

Healthcare access extends beyond the physical transportation challenges. The availability of healthcare providers within the 42328 ZIP code and surrounding areas is a critical factor. While Centertown itself may have limited medical facilities, residents can access a wider range of services in Owensboro, including hospitals, specialist clinics, and urgent care centers.

The quality of healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized medical services are also important considerations. Individuals with chronic conditions or complex medical needs may require access to specialized care that is not readily available in smaller communities. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation options.

The overall health score for healthcare access in the 42328 ZIP code is moderately challenged. While the Western Kentucky Parkway provides relatively efficient access to larger medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services pose significant barriers for some residents.

The absence of a robust public transportation system disproportionately impacts individuals without access to a personal vehicle, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate healthcare access for these vulnerable populations.

The health score is further influenced by the distance to larger medical centers, the availability of specialized medical services, and the potential for traffic congestion or adverse weather conditions. The overall picture suggests that while healthcare access is possible, it requires careful planning and consideration of transportation limitations.

Individuals considering moving to Centertown or residing within the 42328 ZIP code should thoroughly evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services are crucial factors.

Residents should also familiarize themselves with the local healthcare landscape, including the location of clinics, physician offices, and hospitals. Proactive planning, including scheduling appointments in advance and exploring transportation options, is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare services.

The overall health score reflects the interconnectedness of transportation and healthcare access. Improving public transit options, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport are crucial steps towards enhancing healthcare access for all residents of Centertown and the surrounding areas. This will help ensure that the residents can receive the care they need, when they need it, and will improve the overall health of the community.