47513, Birdseye, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47513, Birdseye, Indiana is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.43 percent of residents in 47513 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 12.81 miles from the area.

The air hangs thick with the scent of pine and possibility in Birdseye, Indiana, ZIP Code 47513. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Dubois County, this small community presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing the daunting prospect of breast cancer. This write-up serves as a Breast Cancer Score assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents.

The journey to healthcare in 47513 is often a story of miles, a testament to the rural nature of the area. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers lie beyond the immediate reach, necessitating careful consideration of transportation options. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of reaching these critical resources, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services.

The primary artery for transportation in and out of Birdseye is State Road 145. This two-lane highway snakes its way through the countryside, offering a scenic, albeit sometimes slow, passage. Heading south on 145 towards Tell City, approximately 30 miles away, one might find some initial healthcare options, though not necessarily specialized breast cancer care. Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions, typically ranging from 45 minutes to an hour.

Further afield, the city of Jasper, about 20 miles north, offers a more robust healthcare infrastructure. Reaching Jasper requires navigating State Road 145 north, then connecting to US 231. This route provides access to Memorial Hospital, which offers a range of medical services. The drive time to Jasper is generally around 30 to 40 minutes, a manageable commute for many.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer treatment, Evansville, approximately 70 miles southwest, emerges as a crucial destination. This journey necessitates a longer drive, typically taking around an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the specific route taken. The most direct route involves traveling south on State Road 145 to Interstate 64 West. This highway offers a faster, though often congested, passage. Alternatively, one could take State Road 145 south to State Road 62 West, then connecting to US 41 South, which is a less direct route, but can avoid some of the interstate traffic.

Public transportation options in 47513 are extremely limited. Dubois County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to medical conditions or other limitations. The absence of a reliable public transit system is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or readily available as in larger urban centers. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand. This can create challenges for those needing to schedule appointments or travel for treatment. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are available, but these services are typically reserved for emergency situations or for individuals with specific medical needs.

The Breast Cancer Score for 47513 is negatively impacted by the lack of public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a significant barrier for those without access to a car. The long drive times to specialized treatment centers in Evansville add to the challenges.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. The financial burden of transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees, can be significant. This can create an additional stressor for individuals already facing the emotional and financial strain of a breast cancer diagnosis.

The community of Birdseye, and the surrounding areas, could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include exploring the feasibility of establishing a local shuttle service to transport residents to medical appointments. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical needs could also be a viable solution.

Furthermore, raising awareness about existing resources, such as medical transportation services and financial assistance programs, is crucial. Providing information about these options can empower individuals to navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

Moving to Birdseye, or any rural community, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of evaluating transportation options and their impact on the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The challenges faced by residents of 47513 underscore the need for creative solutions to improve healthcare access and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to receive the care they need. The journey to healthcare should not be a barrier to survival; it should be a path paved with support, accessibility, and compassion.