47575, Saint Anthony, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47575, Saint Anthony, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.48 percent of residents in 47575 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 8.76 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Saint Anthony, Indiana (ZIP Code 47575)

The crisp air of Saint Anthony, Indiana, nestled in the heart of Dubois County, promises a tranquil existence. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the promise of serenity is often tempered by practical concerns, particularly regarding healthcare access. This write-up, the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 47575, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available, assessing their impact on individuals seeking timely and reliable **healthcare access**. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for prospective residents considering **moving to Saint Anthony**, or current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access within ZIP Code 47575 is the rural nature of the area. Public **transportation** is limited, and the distances to specialized medical facilities can be significant. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods, each presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities for those managing asthma. The Asthma Score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation** providers, evaluating their suitability for individuals with respiratory conditions.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Saint Anthony is the automobile. Driving times to medical facilities are paramount, dictating the feasibility of appointments and the speed of response during emergencies. The nearest major medical center, Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, is located in Jasper, approximately 12 miles east of Saint Anthony. The primary route, typically via State Road 64 East, should take about 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours or when encountering construction.

For specialized care, residents often travel further. Evansville, Indiana, approximately 60 miles southwest, hosts a wider array of specialists and hospitals, including Deaconess Hospital and St. Vincent Hospital. The journey to Evansville, primarily via US-231 South and then Interstate 64 West, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This extended travel time introduces a significant burden, particularly for those experiencing asthma exacerbations.

Indianapolis, Indiana, approximately 140 miles northeast, offers even more comprehensive medical services. The trip, primarily via I-64 East and then I-65 North, is a 2.5-hour drive. This long drive time necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays, especially when managing asthma. The potential for increased exposure to allergens and irritants during such extended travel further complicates the situation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

The public **transportation** landscape in Dubois County is sparse. The Dubois County Transit System (DCTS) provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While DCTS offers door-to-door service within the county, including to Jasper, the service is limited in frequency and availability. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with asthma, who may require immediate access to medical care during an exacerbation.

The DCTS operates a fleet of vehicles, some of which are ADA-accessible, offering accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and the need for advance scheduling make it a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs. The lack of fixed routes and schedules requires careful planning and coordination, adding another layer of complexity for individuals managing asthma.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Evansville area, but their presence in Saint Anthony is less reliable. Availability may be limited, and wait times can be extended, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, who may require immediate access to medical care.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), offer specialized options for individuals with medical needs. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, providing rapid response and medical care during transport. NEMT services, on the other hand, cater to non-emergency medical appointments, offering a more cost-effective option for routine visits.

Several medical **transportation** providers serve the Saint Anthony area, including local ambulance services and regional NEMT providers. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring the safety and comfort of patients during transport. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 47575 is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities presented by the **transportation** landscape. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance and time required to reach medical facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency rooms.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and reliability of public **transportation** options.
* **Ride-Sharing Services:** The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical **transportation** services, including ambulance and NEMT.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-accessible **transportation** options.
* **Cost:** The financial burden associated with each **transportation** option, including fuel costs, ride-sharing fees, and medical **transportation** charges.

The Asthma Score aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals with asthma seeking healthcare in Saint Anthony. It underscores the importance of personal vehicles, while acknowledging the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential benefits of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For individuals considering **moving to Saint Anthony** with asthma, careful consideration of **transportation** options is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates diligent vehicle maintenance and awareness of potential delays. While public **transportation** is limited, ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternative avenues for accessing healthcare.

The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 47575 highlights the importance of proactive planning and preparedness. Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider, identifying reliable **transportation** options, and developing an asthma action plan are essential steps in navigating the healthcare landscape. By understanding the **transportation** challenges and leveraging available resources, individuals with asthma can successfully manage their condition and enjoy the tranquility of Saint Anthony.