47951, Kentland, Indiana Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 47951, Kentland, Indiana is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.97 percent of residents in 47951 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franciscan Health Rensselaer, Inc with a distance of 19.77 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kentland, Indiana (ZIP Code 47951)

Kentland, Indiana, nestled in the heart of rural Newton County, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. The very essence of a successful asthma management plan hinges on consistent medical attention, readily available medication, and a swift response during exacerbations. Transportation, therefore, becomes a critical factor influencing the "Asthma Score" for residents of ZIP code 47951. This write-up details the transportation landscape, assessing its impact on healthcare access and providing insights for those considering moving to Kentland.

The primary mode of transportation for most Kentland residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's layout, characterized by low population density and limited public transit options, necessitates reliance on cars for almost all errands, including doctor's appointments and pharmacy visits. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial element of the Asthma Score.

For routine check-ups and non-emergency care, the closest options are typically in Kentland itself, potentially at a local clinic or a family physician's office. However, specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, often requires travel to larger regional medical centers.

The most direct route to Lafayette, Indiana, a city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves traveling east on **US-24 East**. This journey, approximately 40 miles, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The drive on **US-24** offers relatively smooth sailing, but potential delays can arise during peak commuting hours or due to seasonal agricultural traffic.

Another option involves heading south on **IN-52** towards Crawfordsville, Indiana. This route, approximately 50 miles, is slightly longer in distance but can provide an alternative, especially if traffic is heavy on **US-24**. The drive time is comparable, averaging around an hour. This route provides access to hospitals and clinics in Crawfordsville.

For emergency situations, the response time is paramount. The nearest hospital, typically Newton County Hospital in nearby Goodland, Indiana, is a short drive away. However, for more critical conditions requiring specialized care, the journey to Lafayette or Crawfordsville becomes essential.

Public transportation options in Kentland are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the Asthma Score. This reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods poses a challenge for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a car.

There is no established public bus system in Kentland or Newton County. This scarcity of public transportation underscores the critical need for personal vehicles or alternative arrangements for healthcare access. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, potentially restricting their healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability in rural settings can be inconsistent. The frequency of drivers and the potential for longer wait times could pose a significant problem, particularly during emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a viable alternative. These services often provide transportation to and from medical appointments, ensuring timely and safe travel. However, the availability of these services in Kentland and the associated costs must be carefully considered.

Several medical transportation brands operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private transportation companies. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Researching the specific services available in the area, their coverage area, and their pricing is vital for anyone reliant on these options.

The Asthma Score is also affected by the proximity to pharmacies and the ease of medication refills. Kentland has local pharmacies, which can provide convenient access to prescribed medications. However, for specialized medications or those requiring specific compounding, travel to larger pharmacies in Lafayette or Crawfordsville might be necessary.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth consultations, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, can reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication management.

However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, which can be a challenge in some rural areas. Ensuring access to a stable internet connection is essential for maximizing the benefits of telehealth.

For individuals considering moving to Kentland with asthma, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is crucial. The lack of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential travel times to healthcare facilities.

The Asthma Score for Kentland is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the town offers basic healthcare services, specialized care requires travel to larger cities. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides some alternatives, but their reliability and cost must be carefully evaluated.

The availability of telehealth services can help bridge the gap, but the need for reliable internet access adds another layer of complexity. Prospective residents with asthma should factor in the potential for longer travel times, the cost of transportation, and the availability of alternative options when assessing the suitability of Kentland as a place to live.

The overall Asthma Score for Kentland is influenced by the accessibility of healthcare, the availability of transportation, and the cost associated with accessing medical services. While Kentland offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the challenges of healthcare access, particularly related to transportation, must be carefully considered.