47584, Spurgeon, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47584, Spurgeon, Indiana is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.99 percent of residents in 47584 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 15.23 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47584**

The air hangs heavy with the promise of rural tranquility in Spurgeon, Indiana (ZIP Code 47584). Yet, for residents managing asthma, this bucolic setting presents a complex equation. The Asthma Score, a measure of healthcare accessibility, hinges not just on the availability of medical services, but on the ease and efficiency of *transportation* to reach them. This write-up analyzes the landscape of *healthcare access* for those *moving to Spurgeon*, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by this unique location.

Spurgeon, nestled in Dubois County, offers a lifestyle distinct from bustling urban centers. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are concentrated in Jasper, approximately 15 miles to the south, and Washington, roughly 20 miles north. These distances, while seemingly manageable, are significant when considering the unpredictable nature of asthma exacerbations and the urgency they often demand.

The primary mode of *transportation* in this area is the personal vehicle. Driving times to Jasper typically range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. The most direct route involves navigating State Road 56, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. Alternative routes may utilize County Roads, offering a less traveled but potentially slower journey.

Accessing healthcare in Washington via personal vehicle involves a similar time commitment, with drive times averaging 25 to 35 minutes. The primary route is State Road 57, another two-lane highway that can be subject to delays, particularly during harvest season. The intersection of State Road 57 and State Road 56 can be a bottleneck, adding precious minutes to the journey.

Public *transportation* options are limited in this rural setting. Dubois County does not have a dedicated public transit system. This absence significantly impacts *healthcare access* for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations. While neighboring counties may offer limited demand-response services, their availability and coverage are not guaranteed, and scheduling can be cumbersome, especially during acute asthma episodes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability are not consistent. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as during a severe asthma flare-up, can make these options prohibitively expensive. Furthermore, the response time for ride-sharing services in rural areas can be significantly longer than in urban centers, which can be a critical factor in an emergency.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like Rural Transit offer non-emergency medical *transportation* services in the area. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, availability may be limited, and scheduling in advance is usually required. The cost of these services can be a significant barrier to *healthcare access*, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

The absence of readily available public *transportation* and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services highlight the dependence on personal vehicles for *healthcare access* in Spurgeon. This reliance presents several challenges for individuals with asthma. Asthma attacks can impair driving ability, making it unsafe to operate a vehicle. Furthermore, the stress and anxiety associated with an asthma exacerbation can be exacerbated by the complexities of navigating traffic and finding parking at medical facilities.

For individuals *moving to Spurgeon* with asthma, careful consideration of *healthcare access* is paramount. Proximity to medical facilities is crucial. The Asthma Score for this ZIP code is influenced by the drive times, the limitations of public *transportation*, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services.

Individuals considering a move to Spurgeon should prioritize understanding the local healthcare landscape. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in advance is crucial. This physician can provide guidance on asthma management and assist in coordinating care with specialists if needed. Understanding the location of the nearest urgent care facilities and emergency rooms is also vital.

Furthermore, individuals should explore alternative *transportation* options in advance. This may involve identifying trusted friends or family members who can provide *transportation* assistance during emergencies. Building a network of support within the community can be invaluable.

The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 47584 reflects the challenges of *healthcare access* in a rural setting. While the quiet charm of Spurgeon is undeniable, the limitations of *transportation* options and the distance to medical facilities create a complex equation for those managing asthma. The ability to secure reliable and timely *transportation* is a critical factor in ensuring optimal asthma management and overall well-being.