47405, Bloomington, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47405, Bloomington, Indiana is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.36 percent of residents in 47405 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital with a distance of 1.04 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bloomington's 47405

The air hangs heavy, a silent threat for those breathing in the heart of Bloomington, Indiana, particularly within the 47405 ZIP code. For individuals managing asthma, the simple act of accessing healthcare, already complex, becomes a logistical tightrope walk. This "Asthma Score" analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access within 47405, a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move or seeking to understand the practical realities of living with a respiratory condition in this vibrant college town. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare system.

The primary healthcare provider for many in 47405 is Indiana University Health (IU Health) Bloomington Hospital, a comprehensive facility offering a range of specialized services, including pulmonology. The hospital's central location, however, doesn't guarantee effortless access. Drive times are significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours and on game days.

Driving to IU Health Bloomington Hospital from various points within 47405 presents a varied experience. From the western edge, along West Third Street, the journey is relatively straightforward, taking approximately 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. The route typically involves navigating West Third Street east, then turning onto North Walnut Street or North Lincoln Street to reach the hospital.

Conversely, residents residing in the eastern portion of 47405, near East Tenth Street and South Indiana Avenue, might face a slightly longer commute, closer to 15-20 minutes, particularly during rush hour. This route often involves navigating the bustling Indiana Avenue, a major thoroughfare, then turning onto East Third Street or East Second Street to access the hospital. The intersection of East Third Street and Indiana Avenue is notorious for congestion.

The southern reaches of 47405, bordering South Walnut Street, also present a moderate drive time, around 10-15 minutes. This route involves navigating South Walnut Street north, a busy commercial corridor, then turning onto East Third Street or East Second Street to reach the hospital. The presence of numerous traffic lights along Walnut Street can add to the commute time.

The highways impacting access are primarily State Road 37, which skirts the western edge of the 47405 ZIP code, and State Road 46, which runs east-west and intersects with major thoroughfares like Indiana Avenue. While these highways can offer faster routes, they also contribute to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and on weekends. Consider this when assessing the feasibility of living in 47405 with asthma.

Public transportation, provided by Bloomington Transit, offers an alternative, though its effectiveness for asthma patients depends heavily on individual needs. Several bus routes serve the 47405 area, including routes 1, 2, 3, 6, and 9. Route 1, which runs along East Third Street, is particularly relevant, providing direct access to the hospital. Route 2 serves the south side of town, while Route 3 runs along the west side.

Bloomington Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features, making them accessible to individuals with mobility challenges. However, the reliability of public transit, especially during inclement weather, can be a concern. Delays and crowded buses can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the open-air environment of bus stops can expose individuals to allergens and pollutants.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another option for transportation to healthcare appointments. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or drive and park. The convenience, however, comes at a cost, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services expensive.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available in Bloomington. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While offering a higher level of care and convenience, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly.

The choice of transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals with asthma. Driving offers the most control over the environment but can be stressful and time-consuming. Public transit provides a cost-effective alternative but can be unreliable and expose individuals to environmental triggers. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be expensive. Medical transport provides specialized care but requires advance planning and is the most expensive option.

Moving to Bloomington, especially within the 47405 ZIP code, requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Individuals with asthma should assess their individual needs and preferences, considering factors such as their sensitivity to environmental triggers, their financial resources, and their tolerance for stress.

The Asthma Score for 47405 is, therefore, a nuanced one. While the presence of IU Health Bloomington Hospital offers access to specialized care, the transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. The availability of multiple transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides flexibility. However, the potential for traffic congestion, the unreliability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport must be carefully considered.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of strategies. Living within close proximity to bus routes or the hospital, utilizing ride-sharing for appointments, and having a backup plan for inclement weather are all crucial. Proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation options are essential for navigating the healthcare system in 47405 with asthma. The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a simple numerical value, but a complex assessment of the individual's ability to access healthcare, considering their specific needs and the realities of transportation within this vibrant, yet sometimes challenging, community.