47546, Jasper, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47546, Jasper, Indiana is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.23 percent of residents in 47546 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 0.64 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jasper, Indiana (ZIP Code 47546)**

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive healthcare access. For residents of Jasper, Indiana (ZIP Code 47546), the journey to treatment is a critical component of their overall well-being. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical resources, particularly those specializing in breast cancer care. We consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of healthcare access in this community.

The very act of *moving to Jasper* necessitates understanding the practical realities of healthcare access. This is especially true for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those seeking proactive screening. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to empower potential residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Care**

The primary means of *transportation* in Jasper and its surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. Access to specialized breast cancer care often hinges on the efficiency of the road network.

The primary route to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, located in Evansville, Indiana, necessitates a drive of approximately 70 miles. The journey typically begins on State Road 56, a two-lane highway that meanders through the scenic landscapes of Southern Indiana. This road eventually merges onto Interstate 64, a major east-west thoroughfare. The drive on I-64 is generally smooth, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times.

Another option, though less direct, involves traveling south on US-231. This route provides access to smaller medical facilities and specialists in areas like Huntingburg and Tell City. However, these facilities may not offer the full spectrum of breast cancer services available at larger centers.

The estimated drive time to Evansville, assuming moderate traffic, is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This time frame is a crucial factor in the "Breast Cancer Score," as delays can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely treatment.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Gaps**

Public *transportation* options in Jasper are limited, which significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." The local transit authority, Dubois County Transit, operates a demand-response system. This means that rides must be scheduled in advance, and the service area is primarily within Dubois County.

While Dubois County Transit offers door-to-door service, its operational hours and the need for pre-booking can pose challenges for individuals requiring urgent or frequent medical appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical consideration for patients with mobility limitations. The "Breast Cancer Score" weighs the accessibility of these vehicles and the overall ease of use of the public transit system.

The lack of direct public transit to Evansville, the location of the nearest comprehensive cancer center, further complicates the situation. Patients relying on public transit would likely need to utilize a combination of services, potentially involving multiple transfers and extended travel times. This adds to the stress and complexity of accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Void**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Jasper, offering an alternative *transportation* option, though availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability. The cost of these services, particularly for longer trips to Evansville, can be a significant financial burden for some patients.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, provide specialized transport for patients with specific medical needs. These services often include stretcher transportation, wheelchair assistance, and trained medical personnel. The availability and cost of these services are important factors in the "Breast Cancer Score," especially for patients who are unable to drive themselves or rely on public transit.

The "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the accessibility, affordability, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The availability of these services can significantly improve healthcare access for patients who lack personal vehicles or are unable to drive.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Its Implications**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 47546 considers all the factors discussed above. The score is not a simple numerical value, but a holistic assessment of the healthcare *access* landscape. It reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking breast cancer care in Jasper.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Specialized Care:** The distance and travel time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA-compliance of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability and affordability of medical transport options.
* **Proximity to Local Healthcare Providers:** The presence of local healthcare providers offering breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for individuals *moving to Jasper* or residing in the area, allowing them to evaluate the ease with which they can access breast cancer care. It highlights the importance of considering *healthcare access* when making decisions about where to live and how to navigate the healthcare system.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Jasper, Indiana, underscores the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare *access*. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, supporting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport. Furthermore, promoting the development of local healthcare resources, such as breast cancer screening and treatment centers, can significantly enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" and improve the lives of residents.

By understanding the complexities of *transportation* and healthcare *access*, residents of Jasper can proactively manage their health and advocate for a healthcare system that meets their needs. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a rating; it's a call to action, urging the community to prioritize the well-being of its residents and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The score is a testament to the importance of considering healthcare *access* when *moving to Jasper*.