47165, Pekin, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47165, Pekin, Indiana is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.04 percent of residents in 47165 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Salem with a distance of 9.59 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pekin, Indiana (ZIP Code 47165)

Moving to a new community involves a myriad of considerations, from finding the perfect home to securing employment. For individuals, particularly women, considering a relocation to Pekin, Indiana (ZIP Code 47165), a crucial factor is healthcare access, specifically regarding breast cancer screening and treatment. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for this ZIP code, delves into the transportation landscape, a critical element impacting healthcare access. It explores the feasibility of reaching essential medical services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities that await.

The primary concern revolves around timely access to mammography, diagnostic imaging, and specialized oncology services. Early detection is paramount in breast cancer treatment, and delays in accessing care can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, the ease with which residents can navigate the transportation infrastructure to reach these vital services becomes a significant determinant of the "Breast Cancer Score."

Pekin, a small town nestled in Washington County, Indiana, presents a unique set of transportation dynamics. While the area offers a sense of rural tranquility, its distance from major medical centers poses a challenge. The availability of transportation options, therefore, dictates the level of healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For those who drive, the journey to healthcare often begins on State Road 60, the primary artery through Pekin. This two-lane highway connects the town to larger population centers. Heading east, SR 60 eventually intersects with Interstate 65, offering access to Indianapolis, approximately 70 miles away. However, the drive to Indianapolis, home to major hospitals like Indiana University Health and Community Health Network, can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

Westward on SR 60 leads to Salem, the county seat, where residents can access the Washington County Memorial Hospital. The drive to Salem is typically less than 15 minutes, making it a more accessible option for some basic healthcare needs. However, Washington County Memorial Hospital may not offer the specialized oncology services required for breast cancer treatment.

Another crucial route is State Road 56, which intersects with SR 60. This road provides access to Paoli, Indiana, where the Orange County Hospital is located. The drive time to Paoli is around 30 minutes, but the hospital may have limited oncology services.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further complicate transportation. Winter storms, in particular, can significantly increase travel times and make access to healthcare even more challenging.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Pekin are extremely limited. Washington County does not have a comprehensive public bus system, which means relying on a personal vehicle is the primary mode of transportation for most residents. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score," especially for those who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints.

While there might be some limited demand-response services provided by local non-profit organizations, these services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical appointments. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these services is often limited, posing challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader area, but their presence in Pekin itself is sporadic. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments would be unreliable.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations, offering door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability might be limited, especially for appointments requiring immediate attention. Some companies that may serve the area include First Medical Transportation, which is based in Louisville, Kentucky, and offers services to the surrounding counties.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Implications**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Pekin, Indiana (ZIP Code 47165), is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to major medical centers, particularly those offering specialized oncology services, are significant.

This situation underscores the importance of careful planning for anyone considering moving to Pekin, especially those with a history of breast cancer or a heightened risk. It also highlights the need for local initiatives to improve transportation access.

**Recommendations for Improved Healthcare Access**

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" in Pekin requires a multi-pronged approach. The following recommendations could significantly enhance healthcare access:

* **Advocacy for Public Transit:** Local advocacy efforts to establish a public transit system or expand existing demand-response services would greatly benefit residents.
* **Partnerships with Ride-Sharing Services:** Collaboration with ride-sharing companies to ensure reliable service in the area, potentially offering discounted rates for medical appointments, would be beneficial.
* **Expansion of Medical Transportation Options:** Encouraging the expansion of medical transportation services, including those that accept Medicaid and other insurance plans, would provide more accessible options.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Promoting telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations, could reduce the need for in-person travel.
* **Community Education:** Educating residents about available transportation resources and the importance of early detection and screening is crucial.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Moving to Pekin offers the allure of a close-knit community and a slower pace of life. However, the "Breast Cancer Score" reveals the challenges associated with healthcare access. While the beauty of the countryside is undeniable, the transportation limitations require careful consideration. Prospective residents should proactively research their healthcare options, evaluate their transportation needs, and advocate for improved access to care. By addressing the transportation challenges, the community can ensure that all residents, especially those at risk for breast cancer, can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The journey to better healthcare in Pekin requires a collective effort, ensuring that access to vital services is not a barrier but a readily available resource for all.