46323, Hammond, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 46323, Hammond, Indiana is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.60 percent of residents in 46323 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Catherine Hospital Inc with a distance of 3.22 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46323**

Welcome to Hammond, Indiana, a city steeped in industrial history and a vibrant community spirit. This analysis, an "Asthma Score" write-up, meticulously examines transportation options for accessing healthcare within ZIP Code 46323, a crucial consideration for individuals managing asthma. We'll delve into drive times, public transit intricacies, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for those seeking healthcare access and contemplating a move to Hammond. The goal is to equip you with the information necessary to make informed decisions, particularly concerning transportation and its impact on managing asthma symptoms.

The primary consideration, of course, is the ease and speed with which residents can reach medical facilities. Drive times are pivotal. From the heart of 46323, navigating to major healthcare providers often involves using the region's arterial roadways. Heading east on Indianapolis Boulevard (US-41), a major thoroughfare, offers direct access to Community Hospital in Munster, a well-regarded facility. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Alternatively, the Borman Expressway (I-80/94), a significant east-west artery, provides another route. However, this highway is notorious for congestion, especially during peak hours. Reaching Franciscan Health Hammond, located just south of the Borman, might take 10 to 15 minutes under favorable conditions. However, the drive can easily extend to 30 minutes or more during rush hour. The Borman’s unpredictable traffic patterns necessitate careful planning for those with asthma, where timely access to medical care can be crucial.

For those residing in the northern parts of 46323, heading south on Calumet Avenue offers a more direct route to Franciscan Health Hammond, typically a 10-minute drive. This route avoids the Borman's congestion, making it a potentially more reliable option. However, the presence of numerous traffic signals along Calumet Avenue can also contribute to delays. Evaluating these drive times, and their potential variability based on time of day and traffic conditions, is paramount when considering healthcare access.

Public transportation, a vital component of healthcare access, offers another layer of options. The Gary Public TransportationGary Public Transportation Corporation (GPTC) provides bus services within the region. Several routes serve the 46323 area, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. Route 1, for instance, runs along Indianapolis Boulevard, providing access to Community Hospital. Route 2 travels along Calumet Avenue, offering access to Franciscan Health Hammond.

Unfortunately, the GPTC system, while offering essential services, can present challenges. The frequency of buses may not always align with individual needs, and wait times can be considerable. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a key consideration. GPTC buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the reliability of these features and the overall accessibility of bus stops warrant careful evaluation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities. The availability of ride-sharing in 46323 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. This provides a significant advantage over public transit, particularly for urgent medical needs. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several companies operate in the 46323 area, including CareRide and AMR (American Medical Response). These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare needs. They also provide ambulance services for emergencies.

Medical transport services are an invaluable resource for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, booking these services often requires advance planning, and availability may be limited, especially during peak hours. The cost of medical transport services can also be substantial, making it essential to explore insurance coverage options.

When considering a move to Hammond, particularly for individuals with asthma, evaluating healthcare access is paramount. The Asthma Score, in this context, considers the interplay of various transportation modes. The ease of accessing healthcare is significantly influenced by the availability and reliability of transportation options.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the convenience of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services all contribute to the overall Asthma Score. The Borman Expressway’s unpredictable traffic, the GPTC’s limitations, and the cost of ride-sharing can impact the score negatively. Conversely, the direct routes along Indianapolis Boulevard and Calumet Avenue, the ADA features on GPTC buses, and the availability of medical transport services contribute positively.

Therefore, the Asthma Score for 46323, concerning healthcare access, is moderate. While various transportation options exist, each has its limitations. The variability in drive times, the challenges of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing necessitate careful planning and consideration. Individuals with asthma must assess their specific needs, considering factors such as the severity of their condition, their mobility limitations, and their financial resources.

Moving to Hammond, or any location, requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. For individuals with asthma, this assessment should prioritize transportation options. Understanding the drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services is crucial. This comprehensive analysis, the Asthma Score, provides a framework for making informed decisions and ensuring timely access to healthcare, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life.