46104, Arlington, Indiana Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 46104, Arlington, Indiana is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.95 percent of residents in 46104 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hancock Regional Hospital with a distance of 13.50 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Arlington, Indiana (ZIP Code 46104)

Arlington, Indiana, a small town nestled in Rush County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, especially for individuals managing arthritis. This “Arthritis Score” assesses the accessibility of medical care within the 46104 ZIP code, focusing on transportation options and their suitability for those with mobility limitations. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for anyone contemplating moving to Arlington or seeking to understand the healthcare landscape.

The primary concern for arthritis sufferers is the ability to reach medical appointments comfortably and reliably. This involves evaluating drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The ease of transportation directly impacts adherence to treatment plans, quality of life, and overall healthcare outcomes.

### Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in Arlington. The town’s location, while offering a sense of rural tranquility, also necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most errands, including medical appointments. The primary route to access healthcare facilities outside of Arlington involves navigating the network of state roads and highways.

The most direct route to larger medical centers in Indianapolis, such as Community Hospital East or IU Health Methodist Hospital, involves taking **State Road 44** west. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially adding to travel time and exacerbating arthritis symptoms. The journey to Indianapolis is approximately a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, for appointments in Rushville, the county seat, residents can utilize **State Road 3** south. This route offers a shorter drive, typically around 15-20 minutes, providing access to Rush Memorial Hospital. However, smaller towns may have limited specialized services.

Within Arlington itself, local roads like **Main Street** and **Broadway Street** provide access to local businesses and community resources. These roads are generally less congested, but their sidewalks and accessibility features should be assessed for suitability by individuals with mobility issues.

### Public Transit: A Limited Option

Public transportation options in Arlington are extremely limited. Rush County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This presents a significant challenge for individuals with arthritis who may not be able to drive or who prefer not to.

There is no fixed-route bus service operating within or connecting Arlington to nearby cities. The lack of public transit means that individuals must rely on alternative transportation methods, which can be costly and inconvenient.

The absence of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those unable to drive. This can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and a diminished quality of life. Addressing this gap in transportation services would be crucial for improving healthcare access within the community.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Void

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Arlington, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services should be carefully considered when planning medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles.

Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including:

* **CareRide:** This company offers non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Medical Transportation:** They provide transportation services for medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare needs.
* **Senior Transportation of Indiana:** This company specializes in transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

These services can be a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, it's crucial to book these services in advance, as demand can be high.

### Considerations for Moving to Arlington

For individuals with arthritis considering moving to Arlington, the availability and accessibility of transportation are paramount. The lack of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Assess their ability to drive:** Evaluate their comfort level and physical limitations regarding driving.
* **Research ride-sharing availability:** Determine the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Investigate medical transport options:** Identify and contact local medical transport providers to understand their services and pricing.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare facilities:** Prioritize locations that offer easy access to medical care, even if it means a longer commute.
* **Explore community resources:** Research local support groups and organizations that may provide transportation assistance or other support services.

### The Arthritis Score: A Summary

The “Arthritis Score” for healthcare access in Arlington, Indiana (46104) reflects a challenging landscape. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options create barriers to accessing medical care.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation, with routes to larger medical centers requiring travel on State Road 44. Public transit is virtually non-existent, leaving individuals reliant on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

Ride-sharing services are available but may have limitations. Medical transport companies provide a valuable service, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered.

For individuals with arthritis, moving to Arlington requires careful planning and a proactive approach to securing reliable transportation. Understanding the available options and planning accordingly is essential for maintaining healthcare access and quality of life. The community would benefit from exploring opportunities to improve transportation infrastructure and support services, making Arlington a more accessible and welcoming place for all residents.