47564, Otwell, Indiana Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 47564, Otwell, Indiana is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.26 percent of residents in 47564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 9.86 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Otwell, Indiana (ZIP Code 47564)

Considering a move to the tranquil community of Otwell, Indiana (ZIP Code 47564)? For individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This 'Alzheimer's Score' provides a detailed assessment of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access** within and around Otwell, offering crucial insights for informed decision-making. This analysis will explore the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, a critical factor when planning a move, especially for those with mobility or cognitive challenges.

Otwell itself is a small, rural community, which presents both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to **healthcare access**. The peace and quiet can be a balm, but the relative distance to specialized medical facilities necessitates careful consideration of available **transportation** options. This report examines the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, a critical factor when planning a move, especially for those with mobility or cognitive challenges.

**Driving Distances and Road Conditions:**

The primary artery serving Otwell is State Road 57. Driving south on SR 57 leads to Washington, Indiana, a town offering a greater concentration of healthcare services. Expect a drive of approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The roads are generally well-maintained, but rural roads can be subject to seasonal hazards such as snow and ice in winter.

Heading north on SR 57, the journey towards Loogootee, Indiana, offers another set of healthcare options. This drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Again, road conditions are generally good, but drivers should be mindful of potential wildlife crossings, especially at dawn and dusk.

For specialized care, the larger regional medical centers in Evansville, Indiana, are often necessary. This journey, primarily via US 50 East and the I-69 South, is significantly longer, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's, considering potential fatigue and the need for frequent breaks.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public **transportation** options in Otwell are extremely limited. There is no established bus system within the community itself. The closest public transit options are likely to be found in Washington or Loogootee, but even these may offer limited routes and schedules, making them unsuitable for regular medical appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of **ADA** (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on any public transit options in the area should be carefully investigated. Wheelchair accessibility, audio-visual announcements, and trained personnel to assist passengers with cognitive impairments are crucial considerations. Contacting the local county or city government offices to inquire about public transit options and their **ADA** compliance is highly recommended.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in Otwell, but their reliability and availability can vary significantly, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Confirming service availability and the cost of rides to medical appointments is essential. The ability of drivers to accommodate individuals with cognitive impairments or mobility challenges should also be assessed.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are another option. These services, often provided by private companies, are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. They may offer door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and trained personnel to support individuals with Alzheimer's. Researching and contacting medical **transportation** providers in the area is a must.

Some potential medical **transportation** providers to investigate include:

* **First Choice Medical Transportation**: A regional provider.
* **CareRide**: Offers non-emergency medical **transportation**.
* **Local Ambulance Services**: Many local ambulance services also provide non-emergency medical **transportation**.

Thoroughly vet any medical **transportation** service, verifying their licensing, insurance, and experience in working with individuals with Alzheimer's. Inquire about their staff's training in dementia care and their ability to handle potential challenges during the ride.

**Healthcare Facilities and Considerations:**

Washington, Indiana, offers the closest significant concentration of healthcare providers. This includes Daviess Community Hospital, which provides a range of medical services. Loogootee also has some medical facilities.

The larger medical centers in Evansville, Indiana, offer specialized care, including neurology, geriatrics, and memory care clinics. These facilities are crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease.

When **moving to Otwell**, it is essential to establish a relationship with a primary care physician in the area. This physician can serve as a point of contact and coordinate care with specialists. In addition, explore the availability of local support groups and resources for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The Alzheimer's Association offers valuable information and support services.

**The Alzheimer's Score Summary:**

The 'Alzheimer's Score' for **healthcare access** in Otwell, Indiana (ZIP Code 47564) is moderate. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the limited **transportation** options pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles, the variability of ride-sharing services, and the need for pre-arranged medical **transportation** services require careful planning and consideration.

The longer drive times to specialized medical facilities in Evansville necessitate proactive strategies to mitigate potential challenges. This includes scheduling appointments during optimal driving conditions, planning for breaks during the journey, and ensuring the individual's comfort and safety throughout the **transportation** process.

**Moving to Otwell** requires a thorough assessment of **healthcare access** and a proactive approach to **transportation**. By carefully evaluating the available options and establishing a strong support network, individuals and families can successfully navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease while enjoying the benefits of rural living. Prioritizing **healthcare access** and understanding the **transportation** landscape are key to ensuring a high quality of life for those **moving to Otwell**.