42347, Hartford, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42347, Hartford, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.22 percent of residents in 42347 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 2.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Hartford, KY (ZIP Code 42347)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, especially when considering a move to a new community. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of Hartford, Kentucky (ZIP code 42347), focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing healthcare facilities. We will delve into drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

The Overall Health Score is not a numerical value but a descriptive analysis, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services. It considers factors like travel time, mode of transportation, and the presence of accessible options for individuals with disabilities. This score will assist prospective residents in understanding the practical realities of healthcare access in Hartford.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For residents of Hartford, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to key medical providers is paramount. Hartford itself boasts a small clinic, the Ohio County Hospital Rural Health Clinic, offering primary care services. This clinic is easily accessible for most residents, typically requiring a short drive within the town.

However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to larger facilities in neighboring cities. Owensboro, approximately 30 miles north, is a significant healthcare hub. The drive to Owensboro Regional Health (formerly Owensboro Health Regional Hospital) typically takes around 45 minutes via the Western Kentucky Parkway (WK Parkway) and US-60. The WK Parkway provides a relatively direct route, minimizing travel time.

Bowling Green, roughly 70 miles east, presents another healthcare option. The drive to facilities like the Med Center Health in Bowling Green, predominantly using the WK Parkway and the Natcher Parkway, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This longer travel time highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Louisville, a major metropolitan area, offers a wider range of specialized medical services. The journey to Louisville, about 110 miles northeast, requires approximately 2 hours via the WK Parkway and I-65. This extended travel time necessitates a greater degree of pre-planning, especially for appointments or emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hartford are extremely limited. The area does not have a robust public transit system. This severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The absence of a reliable public transit network presents a significant challenge for those seeking medical care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Hartford area, though their availability may be less consistent compared to larger cities. While they can offer a convenient alternative to driving, their cost and potential wait times should be considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to medical appointments, can provide a crucial lifeline. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. They may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers. Researching the availability and cost of medical transportation services is essential for residents who require this type of assistance.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration for Moving to Hartford**

Healthcare access is a fundamental aspect of community well-being. For individuals considering moving to Hartford, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the town offers some local healthcare options, residents often need to travel to Owensboro, Bowling Green, or Louisville for specialized care. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and consideration of travel times.

**ADA Accessibility: Ensuring Inclusivity**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and healthcare facilities. It is essential to assess the ADA compliance of any transportation options, including ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers. This includes ensuring wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The Overall Health Score for residents of Hartford, KY (ZIP code 42347) reflects a mixed picture. While the local clinic provides convenient access to primary care, accessing specialized medical services often requires significant travel. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with the limited public transit options, presents challenges for those without access to a car or those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offers some alternatives, but their cost and reliability should be carefully evaluated. Prospective residents should proactively research these options and assess their suitability based on individual needs.

Moving to Hartford requires a realistic assessment of healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the transportation limitations necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential travel times to access specialized medical care. The Overall Health Score emphasizes the importance of understanding these practical realities to ensure informed decision-making and a smooth transition to a new community.