42368, Reynolds Station, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42368, Reynolds Station, Kentucky is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.14 percent of residents in 42368 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 18.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Reynolds Station, KY (ZIP Code 42368)

Reynolds Station, Kentucky, a small community nestled in Ohio County, presents a unique landscape when considering healthcare access. The Overall Health Score for residents of ZIP code 42368 is significantly impacted by the challenges and opportunities surrounding **transportation**. This write-up analyzes the existing infrastructure, travel times, and available options, providing a comprehensive assessment for individuals considering **moving to Reynolds Station** and evaluating their **healthcare access**.

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility in Reynolds Station is the necessity of travel. The town itself lacks comprehensive medical facilities, thus residents must journey to neighboring towns and cities for specialized care. This reliance on external resources immediately introduces complexities, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

The dominant mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments is undoubtedly the private automobile. Accessing healthcare typically involves driving on a network of rural roads and highways. The most direct route to Owensboro, the nearest city with substantial medical facilities, involves navigating Kentucky Route 54 (KY-54) and the Wendell H. Ford Expressway (US-60). The drive, covering approximately 25 miles, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Owensboro.

Smaller towns offering limited medical services include Hartford, accessible via KY-69, and Beaver Dam, reachable through KY-231. These trips are generally shorter, with drive times ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. However, the scope of services available in these locations is significantly less than in Owensboro, often limiting options for specialized care.

Public **transportation** options in Reynolds Station are severely limited. Ohio County does not have a dedicated public transit system. The absence of buses, trains, or other forms of mass transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not own a vehicle. This limitation disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, exacerbating existing health disparities.

While public transit is unavailable, the potential for ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft exists. However, the availability of these services in Reynolds Station is sporadic and unreliable. Their presence depends heavily on driver availability, which is often limited in rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments, making it an unsustainable solution for many residents.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another avenue to explore. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may require advance booking, posing challenges for urgent or unexpected healthcare needs.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available **transportation** options is a critical consideration. The lack of public transit, coupled with the limited availability of ride-sharing, creates significant barriers for individuals with mobility impairments. While medical **transportation** services often offer ADA-compliant vehicles, their cost and scheduling requirements can limit their accessibility.

The journey to Owensboro, while the most common destination for healthcare, necessitates careful planning. The drive on KY-54, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to weather-related delays, particularly during winter months. The Wendell H. Ford Expressway (US-60) provides a faster route, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend travel times.

The availability of urgent care facilities in Owensboro offers some respite for unexpected medical needs. However, the distance and travel time still pose a challenge, especially for individuals experiencing severe symptoms. Emergency medical services (EMS) are available, but the response time can be longer in rural areas compared to urban centers.

The healthcare infrastructure in Owensboro includes a range of hospitals, specialist clinics, and outpatient facilities. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital is the primary hospital, offering a comprehensive range of services. Other facilities provide specialized care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. However, accessing these services requires navigating the city, finding parking, and potentially waiting for appointments, adding to the overall burden on patients.

The financial implications of **transportation** are a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees can significantly impact a household’s budget. For individuals with limited incomes, these expenses can create a barrier to accessing necessary medical care.

The overall health score for residents of Reynolds Station, Kentucky, is therefore significantly influenced by the challenges associated with **transportation**. The lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on private vehicles create barriers to **healthcare access**. While medical **transportation** services offer a solution, their cost and scheduling requirements can be prohibitive.

For individuals **moving to Reynolds Station**, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs and access to healthcare is essential. Those who rely on public **transportation** or have mobility limitations should carefully consider the challenges they may face. The absence of readily available healthcare facilities within the town necessitates planning and preparation for travel to neighboring cities and towns.

The health score is further impacted by the availability of preventative care services within Reynolds Station. Limited access to primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare providers can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, exacerbating health problems.

The long-term health of Reynolds Station residents is intertwined with the development of improved **transportation** options and the expansion of healthcare services. The implementation of a county-wide public **transportation** system, the promotion of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of telehealth opportunities could significantly improve **healthcare access** for all residents.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for Reynolds Station, KY (ZIP code 42368) is negatively impacted by **transportation** limitations. While the availability of medical facilities in neighboring cities like Owensboro provides crucial healthcare options, the reliance on private vehicles and the absence of public **transportation** create significant barriers. Individuals considering **moving to Reynolds Station** must carefully evaluate their **healthcare access** needs and plan accordingly. Addressing the **transportation** challenges through the development of improved infrastructure and expanded services is crucial for enhancing the overall health and well-being of the community.