46702, Andrews, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 46702, Andrews, Indiana is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.27 percent of residents in 46702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Huntington Hospital with a distance of 8.68 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Andrews, Indiana (ZIP Code 46702)

The diagnosis of breast cancer throws a wrench into life, demanding immediate attention and expert care. For residents of Andrews, Indiana (ZIP code 46702), accessing that care hinges on navigating the local landscape of transportation and healthcare access. This "Breast Cancer Score" examines the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in Andrews, providing a detailed look at how residents can reach vital medical services, particularly those specializing in breast cancer treatment and diagnosis.

Andrews, a charming town nestled in Huntington County, offers a close-knit community feel. However, its relative isolation presents unique hurdles when it comes to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities, including those with specialized breast cancer services, are located in larger towns and cities, requiring residents to rely on various modes of transportation.

The primary challenge is the distance to specialized care. The closest major healthcare hubs are in Huntington, Fort Wayne, and Marion. These destinations require travel, impacting the timeliness of appointments, the frequency of check-ups, and the overall experience for patients already facing the emotional and physical toll of breast cancer.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Routes**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. From Andrews, the most direct route to Huntington, approximately 15 miles away, is via **State Road 218** east. The drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Huntington offers a variety of medical services, including some primary care physicians and diagnostic facilities.

For more specialized care, residents often head to Fort Wayne, approximately 35 miles away. The most common route is to take **State Road 37** north, which merges with **US-24** west. This journey usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour. Fort Wayne boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure, including hospitals like Parkview Regional Medical Center and Lutheran Hospital, which provide comprehensive breast cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Marion, roughly 30 miles from Andrews, is accessible via **State Road 9** south. This drive also takes about 45 minutes to an hour. While Marion offers healthcare facilities, Fort Wayne generally provides a broader range of specialists and treatment options for breast cancer.

The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical appointments. Residents must be prepared for these challenges and consider alternative transportation options when adverse weather conditions are predicted.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Andrews are limited. Huntington County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This leaves residents with few options beyond personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation.

The absence of a readily available public transit system presents a significant barrier for those who cannot drive, lack access to a vehicle, or are unable to drive due to their medical condition or treatments. This can disproportionately affect elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may not always be readily accessible, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Availability can be unpredictable, and the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like CareRide, and MedTrans, operate in the region. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including helping patients into and out of vehicles. They may also accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking.

**ADA Accessibility: A Crucial Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is paramount. When evaluating healthcare access, it's crucial to consider the accessibility of both transportation and medical facilities. This includes the availability of accessible vehicles, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

While ride-sharing services are required to provide accessible vehicles upon request, availability may be limited. Medical transportation services generally offer accessible vehicles. Patients should always confirm the accessibility of the transportation and the healthcare facility before scheduling appointments.

**Moving to Andrews: A Healthcare Access Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Andrews, the availability of healthcare access should be a key consideration, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or those at higher risk for breast cancer. The relative isolation of Andrews necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

Before relocating, prospective residents should research the healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, including their specialties, services, and accessibility features. They should also assess their transportation needs and identify reliable transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation.

**The Score: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Andrews, Indiana, reflects the multifaceted challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for breast cancer patients. While the town offers a tranquil lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical services, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant hurdles.

The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning, exploring all available transportation options, and proactively addressing potential barriers to healthcare access. This includes building strong relationships with healthcare providers, establishing reliable transportation arrangements, and advocating for improved healthcare services in the community.

The journey through breast cancer is undoubtedly arduous. For residents of Andrews, Indiana, navigating the landscape of transportation and healthcare access requires a proactive and informed approach. By understanding the challenges and exploring the available resources, individuals can strive to ensure timely access to the critical care they need. This will help them to focus on their health and well-being, rather than the logistical hurdles of getting there.