42634, Parkers Lake, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42634, Parkers Lake, Kentucky is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.00 percent of residents in 42634 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Health Corbin with a distance of 15.97 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Parkers Lake, KY (ZIP Code 42634)

This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for residents of Parkers Lake, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42634), focusing on healthcare access through various transportation modes. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Parkers Lake, as they directly impact healthcare access and overall well-being.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, especially healthcare. The remoteness of Parkers Lake, nestled within the scenic landscapes of McCreary County, presents both opportunities and challenges in this regard. While the natural beauty offers a serene living environment, the distance to healthcare facilities necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. This report aims to provide a clear picture of the landscape for residents and prospective newcomers alike.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Parkers Lake is personal vehicle. Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The primary roadways serving the area include US Highway 27, Kentucky Route 92, and Kentucky Route 1362.

Traveling to the nearest hospital, Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital in Somerset, KY, involves a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The most direct route utilizes US-27 North. This route offers a relatively smooth drive, but potential delays can occur during peak traffic hours, particularly near the city of Somerset.

Accessing clinics and specialized medical services in Somerset often requires similar drive times. The drive to the nearest urgent care facilities generally mirrors the hospital commute, taking approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Other healthcare providers, such as dentists and optometrists, are also primarily located in Somerset, influencing the overall health score.

For residents seeking specialized care or advanced medical procedures, travel to larger regional medical centers, such as the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington, KY, becomes necessary. This journey involves a drive of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours via US-27 North and the Bluegrass Parkway, significantly impacting the overall health score due to the increased travel time and associated costs.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Parkers Lake are limited, significantly impacting the healthcare access score. McCreary County does not currently operate a county-wide public transportation system. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, further impacting the overall health score. The lack of public transportation also limits access to preventative care, routine check-ups, and other essential healthcare services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Somerset area, but their availability in Parkers Lake itself may be inconsistent. This inconsistency can be a significant challenge for individuals needing immediate or scheduled medical appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing services can also be expensive, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, further impacting the overall health score.

Several medical transport companies serve the area, including but not limited to, First Call Ambulance and Med-Trans Corporation. These companies provide both basic and advanced life support transport, depending on the patient's needs. The availability and cost of these services are critical factors in determining the overall health score.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility standards for public transportation and healthcare facilities. While the lack of public transportation in Parkers Lake presents a significant challenge, healthcare facilities in Somerset are generally required to comply with ADA regulations. This includes accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and other features designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

The availability of accessible transportation options, such as medical transport services with ADA-compliant vehicles, is crucial for ensuring equal access to healthcare for all residents. The overall health score is significantly impacted by the availability and accessibility of these services.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Parkers Lake, KY (ZIP Code 42634) is moderate, reflecting the challenges posed by the area's rural location and limited transportation options. The score is negatively impacted by the absence of public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access.

The score is positively influenced by the availability of medical transport services and the presence of healthcare facilities in Somerset that adhere to ADA standards. However, the long drive times to specialized medical centers and the potential for financial burdens associated with transportation costs negatively impact the overall score.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

To enhance the 'Overall Health Score' and improve healthcare access for residents of Parkers Lake, several recommendations are offered:

* **Advocate for Public Transportation:** Residents should advocate for the implementation of a public transportation system, even a limited route, to connect Parkers Lake with healthcare facilities in Somerset. This could include a dial-a-ride service or a fixed-route bus service.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Initiatives:** Encourage ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area and offer subsidized fares for healthcare-related trips.
* **Expand Medical Transport Services:** Promote the availability and affordability of medical transport services, ensuring that these services are accessible to all residents.
* **Telehealth Adoption:** Encourage the adoption of telehealth services by local healthcare providers to reduce the need for travel for routine appointments and consultations.
* **Community Health Education:** Promote community health education programs to raise awareness of available healthcare resources and transportation options.
* **Collaboration:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to address transportation barriers and improve healthcare access.

By implementing these recommendations, the community can significantly improve the 'Overall Health Score' for residents of Parkers Lake, fostering a healthier and more accessible healthcare environment. This will make Parkers Lake a more attractive location for those considering moving to the area, knowing they can access the healthcare they need. The focus on transportation solutions is key to enhancing healthcare access and promoting the well-being of the community.