Asthma Score

47431, Freedom, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

Average Rating: 0.0 / 5 stars

0 Reviews

Health Scores

Travel Score in 47431, Freedom, Indiana

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47431, Freedom, Indiana is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.09 percent of residents in 47431 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County General Hospital with a distance of 17.45 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 47431, Freedom, Indiana

Asthma Score 77
People Score 68
Provider Score 52
Hospital Score 71
Travel Score 42

Closest Hospital - GREENE COUNTY GENERAL HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 47431 Freedom Indiana
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.65
1 Car 22.54 22.54 18.52
2 Cars 17.00 17.00 41.91
3 or More Cars 60.46 60.46 36.91

Vehicular Access in 47431, Freedom, Indiana

Travel Score Review of 47431, Freedom, Indiana

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Freedom, Indiana (ZIP Code 47431)

Freedom, Indiana, nestled in the verdant embrace of Owen County, offers a tranquil escape from the frenetic pace of urban life. Yet, for residents managing asthma, the very serenity of this rural haven can be complicated by the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 47431, delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical care, particularly focusing on pulmonary specialists and emergency services. Understanding these logistical nuances is paramount for anyone considering moving to Freedom, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Freedom is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. The primary thoroughfare connecting Freedom to larger population centers is State Road 43. This two-lane highway, winding through rolling hills and picturesque farmland, is the lifeline for residents needing to reach Bloomington, the nearest city with a comprehensive medical infrastructure. Driving to Bloomington, approximately 25 miles south, typically takes between 35 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

However, the journey is not without its potential pitfalls. The road's winding nature can be challenging, especially during inclement weather. Furthermore, the absence of dedicated bike lanes or pedestrian walkways makes alternative modes of transportation, such as cycling or walking, impractical and unsafe for those with compromised respiratory systems. The distance also presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, or those who are unable to drive.

Another route, though less direct, involves taking State Road 46 east to State Road 37. This route offers a slightly different perspective of the region, but the overall travel time to Bloomington remains comparable. Regardless of the chosen route, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and maintenance for residents of Freedom.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Bloomington Transit (BT) system, while serving the city of Bloomington, does not extend its routes to Freedom. This absence of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. For individuals with asthma, this lack of public transportation can be a significant barrier to receiving timely and consistent medical care.

The BT system, however, does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating, for those with mobility impairments. Although these features are commendable, their absence from the Freedom landscape emphasizes the need for alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bloomington area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, the availability of these services in Freedom is less consistent, and the cost of a ride to Bloomington can be substantial. This cost factor may become a significant financial burden for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments or emergency care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patient transport, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Rural Metro provide ambulance services for emergency situations. These services are crucial in providing immediate medical attention, but their primary function is for emergencies.

The availability of non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is also a critical factor. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who are unable to drive themselves. These services are particularly important for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma. However, the availability and cost of NEMT services in the Freedom area should be carefully researched.

Healthcare access extends beyond the mere physical act of getting to a doctor's office. The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, is another crucial consideration. The nearest pulmonary specialists are located in Bloomington, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation. The time commitment required for travel, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can add significant stress for individuals already managing a chronic respiratory condition.

The proximity of emergency medical services (EMS) is also paramount. Owen County has its own EMS system, ensuring that emergency medical assistance is available. However, the response time, while generally good, can be affected by the rural nature of the area and the distance to the nearest hospital.

Furthermore, the availability of pharmacies and access to medications is essential. While Freedom has limited local options, residents can access pharmacies in Bloomington. This necessitates a reliable means of transportation to obtain necessary prescriptions and refills.

The Asthma Score for 47431, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the potential cost of ride-sharing, and the distance to specialized medical care all contribute to the overall healthcare access landscape.

For individuals with asthma, the decision to move to Freedom or to remain in the area requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Planning and preparation are essential. This includes ensuring reliable vehicle access, researching NEMT options, and understanding the potential costs associated with transportation to medical appointments.

Ultimately, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape is critical for managing asthma effectively in Freedom. While the rural setting offers a sense of peace and tranquility, the logistical realities of healthcare access must be carefully assessed to ensure that residents can receive the timely and consistent medical care they need. Moving to Freedom requires a proactive approach to healthcare access, ensuring that the beauty of the surroundings does not compromise the health and well-being of its residents.

Reviews

Recent Reviews

No reviews yet.

Leave a review
Health Scores Near 47431, Freedom, Indiana

You may also like

47455, Patricksburg, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 7.81 Miles

Total Population: 39

47471, Worthington, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 7.90 Miles

Total Population: 3,228

47460, Spencer, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 8.68 Miles

Total Population: 11,247

47427, Coal City, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 8.76 Miles

Total Population: 809

47459, Solsberry, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 11.35 Miles

Total Population: 3,677

47424, Bloomfield, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 12.97 Miles

Total Population: 8,545

47464, Stinesville, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 14.22 Miles

Total Population: 323

47429, Ellettsville, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 14.45 Miles

Total Population: 7,408

47465, Switz City, Indiana
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 47431: 14.99 Miles

Total Population: 386

Health Scores in 47431, Freedom, Indiana