47923, Brookston, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47923, Brookston, Indiana is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.51 percent of residents in 47923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health White Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.25 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Brookston (ZIP Code 47923)

Considering a move to Brookston, Indiana (ZIP Code 47923), and managing asthma? This assessment dives into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options. The ability to swiftly and reliably reach medical care is paramount for individuals with respiratory conditions. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" by evaluating the various transportation modalities available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Understanding these factors is essential for informed decision-making, ensuring a smooth transition and continued access to vital healthcare.

The primary concern for individuals with asthma is the speed and ease with which they can access medical attention during an exacerbation. The immediacy of care can significantly impact health outcomes. Brookston, a small town, presents unique transportation challenges and opportunities. The analysis below will detail the practicality of each mode, considering factors like travel time, accessibility, and reliability.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Brookston. The proximity to larger towns and cities like Lafayette and West Lafayette is a significant advantage. However, traffic and road conditions must be considered.

Traveling to Lafayette, the primary hub for specialized medical care, involves navigating a combination of local roads and highways. The most direct route utilizes **US-231 South**. This route typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, generally between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, can significantly extend this commute.

Alternatively, one can utilize **IN-26 West** to reach West Lafayette, a journey of roughly 25-35 minutes. This route offers access to Purdue University’s healthcare facilities. Both routes are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can impact travel times and safety.

For emergencies, the time it takes to reach the nearest emergency room is critical. The drive to Franciscan Health Lafayette East Hospital, the closest major hospital, via US-231 South, is the most direct route. Familiarizing oneself with these routes, including alternate options in case of road closures or accidents, is essential.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Brookston are limited. Greater Lafayette Public TransportationGreater Lafayette Public Transportation Corporation (GLPTC), also known as CityBus, provides service to the Lafayette and West Lafayette areas. However, service to Brookston is not directly available. This significantly reduces the accessibility of healthcare for individuals who do not drive or cannot rely on private transportation.

For those who can reach a CityBus stop, the system offers a network of routes. The primary routes serving the healthcare facilities in Lafayette and West Lafayette are routes 1, 4, and 5. These routes connect to major hospitals and clinics. CityBus strives to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of direct service to Brookston necessitates utilizing alternative transportation to reach the CityBus network.

**Ride-Sharing Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lafayette and West Lafayette areas. Their availability in Brookston itself is variable, depending on driver availability and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments could be problematic, given the potential for delays or unavailability, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor. The fare for a trip to Lafayette or West Lafayette can vary depending on demand and distance. For individuals on a fixed income or those requiring frequent medical visits, the cost can quickly accumulate.

**Medical Transport Services:**

For individuals with asthma who require specialized medical transport, several options exist. These services are particularly crucial for those who cannot drive or have mobility limitations.

Local ambulance services are available for emergency situations. These services provide immediate transport to the nearest emergency room. However, for non-emergency medical appointments, other options may be more suitable.

Medical transport companies, such as MedTrans and First Call Medical Transportation, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These companies provide door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility challenges. The availability of these services in Brookston is variable, and booking in advance is often necessary. The cost of NEMT services can vary depending on the distance and the level of assistance required.

**Assessing the Asthma Score:**

Evaluating the transportation landscape in Brookston reveals a mixed picture for individuals with asthma. While the proximity to Lafayette and West Lafayette offers access to comprehensive healthcare, the reliance on private transportation is a significant barrier.

The **Asthma Score** for Brookston, considering transportation access, would be moderate. The ease of driving to healthcare facilities is offset by the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The necessity of private transportation, coupled with the potential for delays due to traffic or weather, necessitates careful planning and consideration.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Asthma:**

For those considering moving to Brookston and managing asthma, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize access to reliable transportation:** Ensure access to a personal vehicle or identify a dependable driver.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Research and pre-arrange medical transport services for non-emergency appointments.
* **Familiarize yourself with driving routes:** Know the primary routes to healthcare facilities and have backup routes planned.
* **Consider the impact of weather:** Plan for potential delays due to inclement weather, especially during winter.
* **Investigate telehealth options:** Explore the availability of telehealth services for routine check-ups and consultations.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Brookston offers a unique lifestyle, but healthcare access, especially for those with asthma, requires careful consideration. While driving provides the primary mode of transportation to healthcare, the lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges. By understanding the transportation landscape, planning proactively, and utilizing available resources, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the healthcare system in Brookston and maintain their health and well-being. The decision to move to Brookston should include a thorough assessment of these factors to ensure healthcare access aligns with individual needs and circumstances.