47637, Tennyson, Indiana Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 47637, Tennyson, Indiana is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.13 percent of residents in 47637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 8.95 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tennyson, Indiana (ZIP Code 47637)

The creak of a knee, the ache in a wrist – for those living with arthritis, the simple act of getting to a doctor's appointment can feel like a Herculean task. In Tennyson, Indiana (ZIP Code 47637), a rural community nestled in the heart of Warrick County, healthcare access presents unique challenges. This “Arthritis Score” write-up assesses the transportation landscape for individuals with arthritis seeking medical care within and around this specific area. We’ll explore the available options, from driving routes to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the accessibility challenges and opportunities for those considering moving to Tennyson or already residing there.

The primary concern for residents of 47637 is the distance to specialized healthcare facilities. While Tennyson offers some basic medical services, including a family practice, the nearest rheumatologists, orthopedic specialists, and pain management clinics are located in Evansville, approximately 25 miles to the southwest. This distance, coupled with the limitations of available transportation, significantly impacts healthcare access for those with mobility limitations.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in this area. The primary route to Evansville involves navigating the winding roads of rural Indiana. From Tennyson, the most direct route is likely to be **Highway 61** south, merging onto **Highway 62** west. This stretch, while scenic, can be challenging for individuals with arthritis. The condition of the roads, the potential for traffic, and the physical demands of driving can exacerbate pain and fatigue. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

Another alternative involves taking **Highway 61** south to **Interstate 64** west. This route offers a faster, more direct path to Evansville, but it can still be physically demanding. The merging and exiting on the interstate, along with the potential for heavy traffic, can be difficult for those with limited mobility. The drive time via this route is also approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Public transportation options are severely limited in this rural area. Warrick County does not have a comprehensive public bus system that directly serves Tennyson. The closest public transit options are likely to be found in Evansville, which is not easily accessible without a personal vehicle or a pre-arranged ride. For individuals with arthritis who are unable to drive, this lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access. There are no known ADA-accessible public transportation routes within a reasonable distance.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Evansville and may be accessible in Tennyson, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) through these services is also limited, further complicating transportation for individuals with severe mobility limitations.

Medical transportation services are another option for those with arthritis in Tennyson. Several medical transport companies operate in the Evansville area and may provide services to Tennyson. These services typically offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and advance booking is usually required. The availability of these services can also be limited, especially during peak hours or for appointments scheduled on short notice.

For individuals considering moving to Tennyson, or those already residing there, the challenges of transportation to healthcare are a critical consideration. The limited public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access. This is especially concerning for individuals with arthritis, who often require regular medical appointments, physical therapy, and other treatments.

The "Arthritis Score" for transportation to healthcare in 47637 is therefore relatively low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant challenges for individuals with arthritis.

To improve healthcare access for residents of Tennyson with arthritis, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding public transportation options, including a shuttle service to Evansville, would be a significant step. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, increasing the availability of medical transport services and promoting the use of telehealth appointments could help to mitigate the challenges of transportation.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Tennyson, including those with arthritis, have equitable access to the healthcare they need. Addressing the transportation challenges is a crucial step in achieving this goal, making the community a more welcoming and supportive place for all. The need for improved **transportation** options is undeniable, impacting **healthcare access** and influencing the decision of those **moving to Tennyson**. The current landscape highlights the importance of proactive solutions to ensure that residents can readily receive the care they require.