47847, Dana, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47847, Dana, Indiana is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.46 percent of residents in 47847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital Clinton with a distance of 13.50 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dana, Indiana (ZIP Code 47847)

Dana, Indiana, a small community nestled in Vermillion County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. The "Asthma Score" for this area considers the intricate dance between transportation options and the availability of medical resources, painting a picture of both potential obstacles and pathways to care. For those considering moving to Dana, understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring optimal health management.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Dana is, undeniably, the automobile. The vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. This dependence underscores the importance of understanding drive times to various medical facilities. The primary artery connecting Dana to the wider world is **US-36**, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Heading east on US-36, the nearest significant healthcare hub is Terre Haute, approximately 25 miles away. This drive, typically taking around 35-45 minutes, is a critical consideration for anyone requiring routine asthma care or experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation.

Within Terre Haute, **Union Hospital** and **Regional Hospital** stand as the primary providers of comprehensive medical services. These facilities offer emergency care, specialized asthma clinics, and a range of pulmonary specialists. The journey on US-36, while generally straightforward, can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can significantly extend travel times, potentially delaying access to critical care.

The secondary route for accessing healthcare involves utilizing **State Road 63**, which intersects with US-36 near Dana. This north-south highway provides access to facilities in Clinton, Indiana, approximately 10 miles south. While Clinton offers some primary care options, including clinics and family practices, the scope of services is more limited than those available in Terre Haute. The drive time to Clinton is typically around 15-20 minutes.

Public transportation options in Dana and the surrounding area are severely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within Vermillion County. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, or who are unable to drive due to physical limitations. This is a major factor in the asthma score, as it severely restricts healthcare access for a segment of the population.

The absence of robust public transportation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Terre Haute, but their presence in Dana is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, offering specialized transportation for individuals with mobility issues or other medical needs. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly. Researching and establishing a relationship with a reliable medical transport provider is a crucial step for individuals with asthma who lack access to personal transportation.

For individuals with asthma, the distance to healthcare facilities is not the only consideration. The availability of pharmacies to fill prescriptions is also vital. Dana has a local pharmacy that provides essential services. However, for specialized medications or a wider selection of asthma-related products, residents may need to travel to Terre Haute. This adds another layer of complexity to managing asthma in this rural setting.

Healthcare access is further complicated by the availability of specialists. While Terre Haute offers a range of medical specialists, including pulmonologists, access to these specialists often requires referrals from primary care physicians and can involve waiting periods for appointments. This delay can be particularly challenging for individuals with poorly controlled asthma or those experiencing frequent exacerbations.

The Asthma Score for Dana, Indiana, highlights the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, creates a complex landscape. For those considering moving to Dana, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and a proactive approach to establishing healthcare connections are essential.

The quality of life in Dana is undeniable, offering a sense of community and a slower pace. However, individuals with asthma must carefully weigh these benefits against the challenges of healthcare access. Planning ahead, identifying reliable transportation options, and establishing relationships with healthcare providers in advance are crucial steps for ensuring effective asthma management in this rural setting.

The Asthma Score for Dana, Indiana, is not simply a numerical rating; it is a reflection of the lived experience of individuals managing a chronic respiratory condition. It underscores the need for proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a commitment to navigating the complexities of healthcare access in a community where transportation is a fundamental determinant of health.