47854, Hillsdale, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47854, Hillsdale, Indiana is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.74 percent of residents in 47854 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital Clinton with a distance of 11.29 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47854**

The air hangs heavy, a silent threat for those battling asthma. In the heart of Indiana, ZIP code 47854, encompassing the rural community of Hillsdale, presents a unique challenge: healthcare access. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape, a critical determinant of asthma management, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical care. This information is crucial for both current residents and those considering moving to Hillsdale, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

Hillsdale, a tapestry of rolling hills and farmland, demands careful consideration of its transportation infrastructure. The primary artery connecting residents to healthcare is US-41, a north-south thoroughfare that stretches through the county. Driving to Terre Haute, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves navigating this highway, often encountering potential delays due to traffic or weather. The drive, typically 20 to 30 minutes, can be a significant hurdle for those experiencing an asthma exacerbation. The stress of a delayed commute could worsen symptoms, making prompt medical attention even more critical.

Beyond US-41, State Road 246 provides an alternate route, though it adds to the travel time. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can further complicate access. Potholes, snow, and ice can increase travel time and the risk of accidents, all of which can be detrimental to someone experiencing an asthma attack. The quality of road maintenance, therefore, becomes a crucial factor in the overall "Asthma Score."

Public transportation options in 47854 are limited. The Wabash Valley Transit (WVT) operates a bus service, but its routes and frequency are sparse in this rural area. The primary route serving the area might be Route 1, which travels from Terre Haute to Clinton. However, the schedule is limited, with buses running infrequently, especially on weekends. This lack of frequent service significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while mandated, needs verification to ensure those with mobility limitations can utilize the service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Terre Haute, but their presence in Hillsdale is less certain. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies, is a significant concern. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is risky, as wait times can be unpredictable and availability unreliable. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some, further limiting healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services can be costly, and their availability depends on the severity of the medical need. The response time of emergency services is a crucial factor in asthma management, and any delays can have serious consequences.

The "Asthma Score" for 47854 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access environment. The distance to Terre Haute, the potential for traffic delays, and the unpredictable nature of weather conditions further complicate the situation.

For those considering moving to Hillsdale, this "Asthma Score" provides a vital perspective. Individuals with asthma should carefully assess their ability to manage their condition within this transportation landscape. They must consider the availability of reliable transportation, the potential for delays, and the costs associated with accessing medical care.

The score is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of those with asthma in Hillsdale. It highlights the challenges they face in accessing essential healthcare, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and proactive management. The score also underscores the need for community initiatives to improve transportation options, advocating for increased public transit, ride-sharing services, or other solutions that enhance healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" for 47854 also serves as a call to action. It encourages healthcare providers to consider the transportation challenges their patients face and to develop strategies to mitigate these barriers. This might include telehealth appointments, home visits, or providing assistance with transportation arrangements. The score also prompts policymakers to prioritize transportation infrastructure improvements, focusing on road maintenance, public transit expansion, and the support of ride-sharing services.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for 47854 reflects a complex reality. While the community offers a tranquil environment, healthcare access presents significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential difficulties of ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access environment. For those with asthma, understanding these challenges is paramount. Careful planning, proactive management, and a strong community support system are essential for navigating the transportation landscape and ensuring access to timely and effective medical care. This score is a reminder that transportation is not merely a means of getting from point A to point B; it is a critical determinant of health and well-being, especially for those living with chronic conditions like asthma.