The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47421, Bedford, Indiana is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
63.25 percent of residents in 47421 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Dunn with a distance of 0.73 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 47421, Bedford, Indiana
Breast Cancer Score | 52 |
---|---|
People Score | 15 |
Provider Score | 64 |
Hospital Score | 39 |
Travel Score | 77 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 47421 | Bedford | Indiana |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.74 | 2.74 | 2.65 |
1 Car | 15.36 | 15.36 | 18.52 |
2 Cars | 34.67 | 34.67 | 41.91 |
3 or More Cars | 47.23 | 47.23 | 36.91 |
Vehicular Access in 47421, Bedford, Indiana
## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bedford, Indiana (ZIP Code 47421)
The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates readily available, reliable transportation. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 47421 (Bedford, Indiana), assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare, considering transportation options and their impact on patient outcomes. It aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a metaphorical measure of how easily residents can access vital services. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Bedford, seeking a supportive environment for their health needs.
Bedford, nestled in the heart of Lawrence County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The town's relatively rural setting influences transportation options, impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The availability of reliable transportation becomes paramount, especially for those undergoing treatment, which often involves frequent appointments, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The ability to navigate these challenges directly affects a patient's quality of life and treatment adherence.
**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Access**
For many Bedford residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The town's layout, while generally manageable, necessitates understanding the road network. The primary artery is State Road 37, a crucial north-south thoroughfare. Driving south on SR-37 provides access to Bloomington, a regional hub for advanced medical care. The drive to the IU Health Bloomington Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Another significant route is US-50, which traverses east-west, connecting Bedford to neighboring towns and cities. Traveling east on US-50 provides access to Mitchell, Indiana, which may offer some limited healthcare options. However, for specialized breast cancer care, the journey often leads towards Bloomington. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and the overall Breast Cancer Score.
Local roads, such as 16th Street and 29th Street, within Bedford itself, provide access to local clinics and medical offices. However, these facilities may not offer comprehensive breast cancer treatment, necessitating travel to Bloomington or Indianapolis. The ease of navigation, the availability of parking, and the overall condition of the roadways all contribute to the patient's experience and influence the Breast Cancer Score.
**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**
Public transportation in Bedford is limited, impacting the Breast Cancer Score for those without personal vehicles. The local transit system, managed by the Lawrence County Transit System, offers bus routes within the county. However, these routes may have limited service hours and frequency, particularly on weekends and evenings. This can pose a significant challenge for patients needing to attend early morning or late afternoon appointments.
The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. The Lawrence County Transit System does offer accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation. However, the limited route network and service hours remain a significant barrier for many. The Breast Cancer Score is negatively impacted by the reliance on a limited public transit system.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bedford, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for patients with limited financial resources. This impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those relying on ride-sharing as their primary means of transportation.
Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate patients with specific needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability and affordability of medical transport services can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score for those who qualify or can afford them.
**Healthcare Access: The Destination of the Journey**
The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care within Bedford itself is a key factor. While local clinics may offer screening services, such as mammograms, the availability of specialized treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is often limited. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers, such as the IU Health Bloomington Hospital or hospitals in Indianapolis.
The proximity of these larger medical centers, and the ease with which patients can access them, directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist with transportation and appointment scheduling, is also crucial. These navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of navigating the healthcare system.
**Moving to Bedford: Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**
For individuals considering moving to Bedford, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The Breast Cancer Score should be a key consideration. Factors to weigh include: the availability of a personal vehicle, the ability to drive long distances, the availability of support networks, and the financial resources to cover transportation costs.
Potential residents should research the availability of specific healthcare services, including the proximity of breast cancer specialists, the availability of support groups, and the ease of accessing these resources. The ability to navigate the transportation challenges and access timely, quality care is paramount.
**Conclusion: A Complex Score**
The Breast Cancer Score for Bedford (ZIP code 47421) is complex, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential need to travel to Bloomington or Indianapolis for specialized care all contribute to the overall score.
While Bedford offers a close-knit community and a relatively affordable cost of living, individuals with breast cancer or those at high risk must carefully assess the transportation challenges and healthcare access. Proactive planning, exploring all available options, and leveraging support services are essential to navigating the healthcare journey successfully. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that access to care is not just about medical expertise; it's about the ability to get there.
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