42366, Philpot, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42366, Philpot, Kentucky is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.60 percent of residents in 42366 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 20.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Philpot, KY (ZIP Code 42366)

Philpot, Kentucky, a charming community nestled in the heart of Daviess County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access. This assessment delves into the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 42366, focusing on the crucial element of transportation and its impact on accessing medical care. The score is a composite, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding for current residents and those contemplating **moving to Philpot**, KY, regarding their ability to reach essential healthcare services.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Philpot is the automobile. The vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles to navigate the region. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the local road network. The primary arteries are US Highway 60, a major east-west thoroughfare, and KY Highway 144, which provides north-south connectivity. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around Owensboro, the nearest city with a comprehensive healthcare infrastructure.

The closest major medical hub is Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, located in Owensboro, approximately 10-15 miles east of Philpot. The drive typically takes 20-30 minutes via US-60, depending on traffic conditions. Several specialized clinics and physician offices are also located in Owensboro, adding to the necessity of reliable transportation. Access to these facilities is crucial for preventative care, chronic disease management, and emergency services.

Beyond Owensboro, residents may need to travel further for specialized care. Louisville, a larger metropolitan area with advanced medical facilities, is approximately a two-hour drive via the Western Kentucky Parkway (WK Pkwy) and Interstate 65 (I-65). This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The need for specialized care, such as cancer treatment or complex surgeries, could add significant travel burdens for residents of Philpot.

Public transportation options in Philpot are limited. The Owensboro Transit System (OTS) primarily serves the city of Owensboro, and its routes do not directly extend to Philpot. This means that residents without access to a personal vehicle or ride-sharing services face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The absence of readily available public transit represents a considerable barrier for those with mobility limitations, the elderly, and individuals with low incomes.

The OTS does offer some ADA-accessible buses, but these are only available on their fixed routes within Owensboro. The lack of public transit options underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. The absence of adequate public transportation significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Owensboro area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Philpot can be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather can increase costs. While ride-sharing offers a degree of flexibility, it may not be a reliable or affordable option for all residents, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another avenue for healthcare access. These services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport providers, are available in the region. Ambulance services are crucial for emergency situations, but the cost can be substantial. Non-emergency medical transport providers offer transportation to medical appointments, but availability and cost can vary.

These services are vital for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or utilize other transportation options. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, potentially limiting access to care for those with limited financial resources. The reliance on these specialized services highlights the transportation challenges faced by some Philpot residents.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 42366 is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the proximity to Owensboro offers access to essential healthcare services, the lack of public transit and the potential for ride-sharing unreliability create barriers for some residents. The need for specialized care in Louisville adds to the transportation challenges.

The score is further influenced by factors such as socioeconomic status, age, and disability status. Residents with limited financial resources may struggle to afford the costs of personal vehicle ownership, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. Elderly residents and those with disabilities may face mobility challenges, making it difficult to access healthcare facilities.

The availability of preventative care and chronic disease management services within the Owensboro area is crucial. Early detection and treatment of health conditions can significantly improve health outcomes. However, if transportation barriers prevent residents from accessing these services, their overall health can suffer.

The health score is not solely determined by transportation. The availability of healthcare providers, the quality of care, and the health behaviors of residents also play a crucial role. However, transportation is a fundamental element that impacts access to care and influences overall health outcomes.

For individuals considering **moving to Philpot**, KY, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers should also be considered.

The overall health score for Philpot residents could be improved by expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transportation. Community initiatives that promote carpooling or volunteer driver programs could also enhance healthcare access.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 42366 is influenced by the availability of transportation options. While Owensboro offers accessible healthcare, the lack of public transit, the potential for ride-sharing limitations, and the need for specialized care in more distant locations create challenges. Addressing these transportation barriers through improved public transit, ride-sharing support, and financial assistance for medical transport would significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the well-being of Philpot residents.