42351, Lewisport, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42351, Lewisport, Kentucky is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.02 percent of residents in 42351 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Owensboro Health Regional Hospital with a distance of 12.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 42351 (Lewisport, KY)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to its ability to access necessary healthcare services. In ZIP Code 42351, the small town of Lewisport, Kentucky, this access is primarily dictated by the available transportation options. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport. This analysis is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lewisport, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain and improve their health.

Lewisport, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting means that healthcare facilities are not always immediately accessible. The primary determinant of healthcare access is, therefore, the reliance on personal vehicles. The major thoroughfares in the area are crucial for travel.

Driving to the nearest significant healthcare hub, Owensboro, Kentucky, approximately 25 miles to the east, involves navigating US-60 East. This route typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. During peak hours, particularly in the morning and evening commutes, the travel time can extend, potentially creating delays for appointments or emergency situations. The condition of US-60 is generally well-maintained, but occasional construction or accidents can further impact travel times.

Alternatively, residents might need to travel south to the smaller town of Hawesville, Kentucky, which is closer, but offers limited healthcare options. This journey primarily involves KY-144. Drive times to Hawesville are significantly shorter, usually under 15 minutes. However, the healthcare facilities available in Hawesville are often smaller and may not offer the same range of specialized services as those in Owensboro.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 42351 are limited. Hancock County, where Lewisport is located, does not have a dedicated public bus system. This absence significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or have mobility limitations. The lack of public transit poses a considerable challenge for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with lower incomes, effectively creating a barrier to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in Owensboro, but their availability in Lewisport is less consistent. The rural nature of the area and lower population density mean that wait times for ride-sharing services can be unpredictable, and the cost can be relatively high. This unreliability presents a significant obstacle for residents who depend on these services for their healthcare needs.

Specialized medical transport services are available in the area, primarily for non-emergency medical transportation. These services, often provided by private companies, cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability might be limited. Booking well in advance is often necessary.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Lewisport, KY (ZIP Code 42351) is therefore moderate, leaning towards the lower end. While the drive times to Owensboro are manageable for those with personal vehicles, the lack of public transportation, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of specialized medical transport create significant barriers for many residents.

The score is further affected by the demographics of Lewisport. A significant proportion of the population is elderly, which increases the need for accessible transportation options. This demographic is also more likely to require regular medical appointments and specialized care, making the limitations in transportation even more critical.

Furthermore, the economic status of the community plays a role. Lower-income residents may struggle to afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance. The absence of affordable and reliable public transportation exacerbates these financial challenges, potentially leading to delayed or missed medical appointments.

The healthcare access landscape in Lewisport underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating the overall health of the community. Investing in improved public transit options, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to subsidize transportation costs for medical appointments could also prove beneficial.

For individuals considering moving to Lewisport, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and capabilities. Those who are reliant on public transportation or ride-sharing services should be aware of the limitations and plan accordingly. Proximity to healthcare facilities is a critical factor in maintaining good health, and the challenges associated with transportation in Lewisport should be carefully considered.

The future of healthcare access in Lewisport could be improved through strategic initiatives. Encouraging the development of telehealth services, where patients can consult with healthcare providers remotely, could reduce the need for travel. Supporting initiatives that promote carpooling or vanpooling for medical appointments could also provide a viable solution.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 42351 reflects the limitations of the current transportation infrastructure. While personal vehicles offer the most reliable means of reaching medical facilities, the absence of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of specialized medical transport create significant barriers for many residents. Prospective residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or limited financial resources, should carefully evaluate these factors before making a move. Addressing these transportation challenges through strategic investments and innovative solutions is essential to improving the overall health and well-being of the Lewisport community.