42782, Summersville, Kentucky Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.72 percent of residents in 42782 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jane Todd Crawford Hospital with a distance of 9.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Summersville, KY (ZIP Code 42782)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Summersville, Kentucky (ZIP code 42782), evaluating its impact on residents' overall health. We will explore the available options for commuting to healthcare facilities, examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on the ease and efficiency of accessing medical care. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Summersville**, as understanding the **transportation** infrastructure is crucial for maintaining good health.

Summersville, a small community nestled in central Kentucky, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**. The rural nature of the area significantly influences the available **transportation** options. This analysis will consider these factors to provide a nuanced understanding of the community's health profile.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

For many residents, the personal vehicle is the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare. The quality and accessibility of roads, therefore, are paramount. Summersville is primarily served by Kentucky Route 55 (KY-55) and Kentucky Route 337 (KY-337), which connect the town to surrounding areas. While these routes are generally well-maintained, they are often two-lane roads, which can lead to delays, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather.

The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating longer drive times. For example, the drive to the Taylor Regional Hospital in Campbellsville, a common destination for medical care, is approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This drive typically involves navigating KY-55 and US-68. The journey to the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, a major regional healthcare provider, is considerably longer, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via the Bluegrass Parkway (a toll road) and Interstate 64 (I-64). The drive to Louisville, another major healthcare hub, is similar in time, utilizing the Bluegrass Parkway and I-65.

These drive times can pose a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments, those with limited mobility, or those who lack reliable **transportation**. The distance also increases the potential for delays in emergencies, highlighting the importance of efficient emergency medical services.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit options in Summersville are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access**, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

While there may be local programs offering transportation for seniors or individuals with disabilities, the availability and frequency of these services are often limited. The lack of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport, potentially creating additional financial burdens and logistical challenges for residents seeking medical care. The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant factor contributing to a lower 'Overall Health Score' for Summersville.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Summersville, but their coverage and availability may be limited compared to larger urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This can further exacerbate the challenges of **healthcare access** for low-income individuals.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring **healthcare access**, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Local ambulance services provide emergency medical response. NEMT services, often provided by private companies or local healthcare providers, offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of NEMT services and the associated costs can vary.

The presence of medical transport options, while essential, does not fully compensate for the lack of other **transportation** alternatives. The reliance on these services can be costly and may require advance booking, further complicating the process of accessing medical care.

**ADA Accessibility**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transit systems and facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the limited public transit options in Summersville mean that ADA-compliant **transportation** is not readily available. This lack of accessible **transportation** presents a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities seeking **healthcare access**.

Medical facilities themselves are generally required to comply with ADA standards, ensuring accessibility within their buildings. However, the journey to these facilities remains a barrier for many.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Considering the factors discussed above, the 'Overall Health Score' for **healthcare access** in Summersville (ZIP code 42782) is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport create challenges for residents seeking medical care. The longer drive times to healthcare facilities further compound these issues.

To improve the 'Overall Health Score' and enhance **healthcare access** in Summersville, several recommendations are proposed:

* **Expand Public Transit:** Advocate for the development of a public transit system, including bus routes connecting Summersville to nearby healthcare facilities and surrounding communities. Ensure that the system is ADA-compliant.
* **Enhance Ride-Sharing Availability:** Encourage ride-sharing companies to expand their services in the area, potentially through incentives or partnerships with local healthcare providers.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Increase funding and resources for NEMT services, ensuring that they are accessible and affordable for all residents.
* **Promote Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, local governments, and community organizations to develop innovative **transportation** solutions, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Advocate for improvements to KY-55, KY-337, and other local roads to reduce drive times and enhance safety.
* **Educate Residents:** Provide information to residents about available **transportation** options, including ride-sharing services, medical transport, and local programs.

By implementing these recommendations, Summersville can improve its 'Overall Health Score' and ensure that all residents have equitable **healthcare access**, making it a more attractive place to live and thrive, especially for those considering **moving to Summersville**. The ability to readily access medical care is a fundamental aspect of a healthy community, and addressing the **transportation** challenges is crucial for improving the well-being of its residents.