47574, Rome, Indiana Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 47574, Rome, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

10.98 percent of residents in 47574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.17 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47574

The quest for accessible healthcare, especially for individuals grappling with Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a meticulous examination of transportation options. This write-up, the "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities within and surrounding ZIP Code 47574, Rome, Indiana, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, crucial for families considering moving to Rome or for residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

ZIP Code 47574, a predominantly rural area, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation. The primary method of travel is by personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare providers are a critical factor in the Alzheimer's Score, as extended travel can exacerbate the cognitive and physical limitations associated with the disease.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Rome are State Road 61 and State Road 57. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating these roads, and the distance to facilities significantly impacts the overall score. The nearest hospital, Memorial Hospital in Jasper, Indiana, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive via State Road 61. This journey, while manageable, demands careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric services, may require travel to Evansville, Indiana, roughly an hour's drive via State Road 61 and US-41. This longer commute necessitates a higher level of preparation, including pre-planning appointments, ensuring a reliable driver, and factoring in potential traffic congestion. The Alzheimer's Score recognizes this increased burden, adjusting the rating accordingly.

Smaller towns like Washington, Indiana, offer some healthcare options, reachable via State Road 57. However, these facilities may not provide the specialized care required for advanced Alzheimer's cases. The score considers the availability of these options, acknowledging their potential for basic medical needs while highlighting the necessity of longer commutes for specialized treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 47574 are severely limited. Dubois County, where Rome is located, does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This absence significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score, as individuals unable to drive are largely dependent on family, friends, or specialized transportation services.

There is no readily available public transit route, such as a bus, that directly serves the area. The absence of public transportation, including routes with ADA features, presents a significant obstacle to healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's, limiting their independence and increasing the reliance on others. The score reflects this critical deficiency.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Evansville area, but their presence in Rome is less certain. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The Alzheimer's Score acknowledges the potential of ride-sharing but emphasizes the need for confirmation of service availability and reliability.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with Alzheimer's who cannot drive or utilize public transit. Several companies provide these services, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport. These services often require pre-booking and can be costly, impacting the overall accessibility score.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, are essential. However, the Alzheimer's Score considers the cost and availability of these services. The score considers the cost of these services and the need for advance scheduling.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment:**

The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP Code 47574 is influenced by several factors. The primary determinant is the drive time to healthcare facilities, particularly those offering specialized care. The absence of public transit, coupled with the variable availability of ride-sharing services, further diminishes the score.

The score also considers the availability and reliability of medical transport services, recognizing their vital role in ensuring healthcare access. The cost of these services and the need for pre-planning are also factored in. The score is not static; it is a dynamic assessment that considers the changing landscape of transportation and healthcare options.

**Moving to Rome: A Transportation Perspective:**

For families considering moving to Rome with a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's, the transportation challenges must be carefully considered. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a valuable tool in this decision-making process. The score highlights the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the need for pre-planning when utilizing ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Families should assess the availability of caregivers, the ability to drive, and the financial resources required for medical transportation. The score emphasizes the importance of creating a comprehensive transportation plan, including backup options, to ensure consistent access to healthcare.

The score is not a definitive answer; it is a starting point for a thorough evaluation. It underscores the need for proactive planning, including exploring all available resources and tailoring transportation strategies to the specific needs of the individual with Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP Code 47574 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural environment. It emphasizes the importance of careful planning, reliable transportation, and a proactive approach to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the care they need. The score serves as a vital guide for families navigating the complexities of healthcare access and making informed decisions about their loved ones' well-being.