46128, Fillmore, Indiana Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 46128, Fillmore, Indiana is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.73 percent of residents in 46128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Putnam County Hospital with a distance of 6.55 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fillmore, IN (ZIP Code 46128)

Considering a move to Fillmore, Indiana (ZIP code 46128)? Perhaps you're already a resident, navigating the challenges of arthritis. This write-up, the "Arthritis Score," analyzes the accessibility of healthcare within and around this Putnam County community, focusing specifically on transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations. Our goal is to provide a clear picture of how easily you can access essential medical care, considering the realities of arthritis and the limitations it can impose. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, offering a practical guide for those seeking healthcare access.

Fillmore, a small town nestled amidst rolling hills and farmland, presents unique transportation challenges. While the pace of life is slower, the availability of robust public transit and readily available ride-sharing services is limited. This is a crucial factor when assessing healthcare access, especially for those experiencing the pain and mobility restrictions associated with arthritis. The Arthritis Score for Fillmore will therefore heavily weigh the availability of personal vehicle transportation and specialized medical transport.

The primary artery connecting Fillmore to the broader region is US-231, a north-south highway. This road serves as the lifeline for residents needing to travel to larger towns and cities for medical appointments. Traveling south on US-231, you can reach Greencastle, the county seat, in approximately 10-15 minutes. Greencastle is home to Putnam County Hospital, the primary healthcare provider for the area. This drive time is generally manageable, but consider the impact of traffic, weather conditions, and the physical toll of driving for those with arthritis.

Further afield, Indianapolis, a major healthcare hub, lies roughly an hour's drive east via US-36. This route involves navigating a combination of US-231, US-36, and potentially I-70, a major interstate. The journey to Indianapolis opens up a vast array of specialized medical services, including rheumatology clinics, orthopedic specialists, and rehabilitation centers. However, this longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with arthritis who may need to factor in rest stops and the potential for increased pain during travel.

Public transportation options in Fillmore are extremely limited. Putnam County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This is a significant disadvantage for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The lack of public transportation severely restricts healthcare access, making it difficult for those with arthritis to attend appointments, pick up prescriptions, or participate in physical therapy. This lack of public transit will heavily influence the Arthritis Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Fillmore, but their reliability and availability can vary significantly. While these services can provide a convenient alternative to driving, their presence is not as consistent as in larger urban areas. Wait times can be longer, and the availability of drivers may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty can be a source of stress for individuals with arthritis who need to schedule appointments and rely on timely transportation.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with severe mobility limitations. These services provide specialized transportation, often with wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel to assist with patient needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies like Med-Ride and First Medical Transport. However, the availability of these services and their coverage area can vary. It is essential to research and pre-arrange medical transport well in advance of any appointments.

Healthcare access in Fillmore is further complicated by the limited availability of specialized medical services within the immediate vicinity. While Putnam County Hospital offers a range of general medical services, individuals with arthritis may need to travel to Indianapolis or other regional centers for specialized care. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of transportation, especially for those with limited mobility.

The Arthritis Score for Fillmore will also consider the availability of accessible parking at healthcare facilities. This may seem like a minor detail, but it is crucial for individuals with arthritis. The availability of designated handicap parking spaces, the ease of access to building entrances, and the overall layout of the facilities can significantly impact the patient experience.

Another factor to consider is the availability of home healthcare services. For individuals with arthritis who are unable to travel easily, home healthcare can provide a valuable alternative. Services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing care can be delivered directly to the patient's home. The availability and quality of home healthcare services in Fillmore can significantly influence the overall Arthritis Score.

The overall Arthritis Score for Fillmore, Indiana (46128) will be moderate. While the proximity to Greencastle and the availability of US-231 provide relatively easy access to Putnam County Hospital, the lack of public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the need for careful planning for longer trips to Indianapolis for specialized care are also important considerations. The availability of medical transport services and home healthcare options will positively influence the score, but the overall assessment reflects the limitations of healthcare access for individuals with arthritis in this rural community.

For those considering moving to Fillmore, or for current residents, proactive planning is essential. Researching healthcare providers, understanding transportation options, and exploring available support services are crucial steps. This includes identifying reliable medical transport providers, exploring home healthcare options, and ensuring that all healthcare facilities are accessible. Careful planning and preparation can help individuals with arthritis navigate the challenges of healthcare access in Fillmore and maintain their quality of life.