42371, Rumsey, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42371, Rumsey, Kentucky is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.82 percent of residents in 42371 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohio County Hospital with a distance of 21.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rumsey, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42371)

This report provides an overall health score assessment for residents of Rumsey, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42371), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access. We delve into the complexities of transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking medical care in this rural community. Understanding these factors is paramount for individuals considering moving to Rumsey and for local policymakers striving to improve community well-being.

The overall health score is a composite measure, factoring in the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities. It considers the time required to travel, the availability of transportation alternatives, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score suggests significant barriers. This assessment will highlight the specific transportation landscape in and around Rumsey, offering a nuanced understanding of its impact on the health of its residents.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

Rumsey, Kentucky, is situated in a primarily rural area, and the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is personal vehicles. The reliance on cars significantly impacts the overall health score, as it makes healthcare access contingent on vehicle ownership and maintenance. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in surrounding towns, necessitating travel along specific roadways.

The most direct route to Owensboro, a major healthcare hub, typically involves traveling east on **US-60**, a major arterial road. The drive time to Owensboro Regional Hospital can range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This is a reasonable commute, but it can become challenging for individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Traveling south on **KY-136** offers access to Greenville, where Muhlenberg Community Hospital is located. This drive typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. While closer than Owensboro, the healthcare options in Greenville are generally more limited. The road quality on both **US-60** and **KY-136** is generally good, but they are two-lane roads with limited shoulders, which can be hazardous, especially during inclement weather.

The condition of these roads, including their maintenance and the presence of adequate signage, also plays a crucial role in the health score. Poor road conditions can increase travel times, raise the risk of accidents, and exacerbate the stress associated with seeking medical care. The absence of reliable public transportation further underscores the importance of well-maintained roads.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Rumsey and the surrounding area are extremely limited. This lack of public transit is a significant factor negatively impacting the overall health score. The absence of buses or other forms of public transportation creates a barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with car ownership, such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance.

The absence of public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. These individuals may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services, leading to delayed treatment, poorer health outcomes, and increased healthcare costs. The lack of ADA-accessible transit options further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Rumsey. The lack of these services further limits transportation options for residents. The absence of ride-sharing services means that residents are primarily reliant on personal vehicles or medical transport services for accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services are available in the area, but they can be expensive and require advance booking. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. While they offer a crucial service for those who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation, their limited availability and cost can still pose a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The brands offering medical transport in the area include local ambulance services, such as Muhlenberg County EMS, and private companies that provide non-emergency medical transportation. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance traveled and the level of care required.

**Accessibility and ADA Considerations:**

Accessibility is a critical aspect of the overall health score. The availability of transportation options that accommodate individuals with disabilities is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare access. The absence of accessible public transportation, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for long drive times all contribute to a lower health score for individuals with disabilities.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is also a crucial factor. Healthcare providers must ensure that their facilities are ADA-compliant, including providing accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and examination rooms. The availability of accessible transportation options is essential for enabling individuals with disabilities to reach these facilities.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the assessment of transportation options in Rumsey, the overall health score is considered moderate. The primary challenges are the lack of public transportation, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles. While drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of alternative transportation options creates significant barriers for certain populations.

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are proposed. First, exploring the feasibility of implementing a demand-response public transportation system or partnering with neighboring counties to provide shared transportation services. Second, advocating for the expansion of ride-sharing services to Rumsey. Third, promoting the availability of medical transport services and exploring ways to make them more affordable. Finally, enhancing the accessibility of healthcare facilities, including providing accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and examination rooms.

For those considering moving to Rumsey, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. While the community offers a rural lifestyle, access to healthcare requires careful planning and consideration. The availability of personal transportation is essential, and residents should be prepared to navigate the challenges associated with limited public transit and ride-sharing options.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to provide access to healthcare. By addressing the transportation challenges in Rumsey, the community can improve the overall health score, enhance the well-being of its residents, and create a more equitable and accessible healthcare system. The future of Rumsey’s health hinges on the community’s willingness to innovate and invest in transportation solutions that meet the needs of all its residents.