47568, Plainville, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47568, Plainville, Indiana is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.74 percent of residents in 47568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Daviess Community Hospital with a distance of 9.44 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plainville, Indiana (ZIP Code 47568)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is more than just a medical appointment. It’s a complex navigation of time, resources, and emotional resilience. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare within and around Plainville, Indiana (ZIP Code 47568), focusing on the critical aspect of transportation. Understanding these transportation options is crucial for anyone considering moving to Plainville or currently residing there, ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.

Plainville, a small town nestled in Daviess County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural setting, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, often translates to longer travel times to specialized medical facilities. This score examines the available transportation infrastructure, including highways, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for individuals facing or at risk of breast cancer.

The primary artery connecting Plainville to larger healthcare hubs is US-50. This highway serves as the main conduit to Vincennes, approximately 20 miles west, and Washington, about 15 miles east. Driving times to these cities, and thus their respective hospitals and clinics, are generally manageable, typically ranging from 20 to 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, these times can fluctuate considerably during inclement weather, potentially impacting access to critical appointments and treatments.

Beyond US-50, Indiana State Road 57 provides a north-south connection, though it primarily serves local traffic. Other local roads, such as County Road 1000 E and County Road 500 S, offer alternative routes but are generally slower and may be less well-maintained. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety, making them less reliable options for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

Public transportation options in Plainville and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Daviess County does not currently offer a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to physical limitations or other circumstances. This absence underscores the critical importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The wait times for a ride may be longer compared to more urban environments, and the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden for individuals undergoing treatment. This is a vital consideration for anyone planning to move to Plainville and needing regular medical transportation.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable, they often come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or personal vehicles. Researching the availability and cost of these services is crucial for understanding the full scope of healthcare access in Plainville.

The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer services, is often found in Vincennes or Washington. These facilities offer diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The availability of these services locally is a crucial factor in determining the overall accessibility of care. The Breast Cancer Score must account for the quality and range of services offered at these facilities, as well as the ease of access.

Beyond the immediate medical needs, access to supportive care services is also essential for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. This includes access to support groups, counseling, and rehabilitation services. These services may be available at the hospitals or clinics, or they may require travel to different locations. The transportation challenges associated with accessing these supportive services should be considered in the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score must also consider the availability of pharmacies and other essential services in Plainville. Access to medication, durable medical equipment, and other supplies is critical for managing the disease and its side effects. The proximity of these services and the ease of access are important factors in determining the overall healthcare accessibility in the area.

The financial burden of healthcare is a significant concern for individuals facing breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services. The availability of financial assistance programs and resources is also important in mitigating the financial impact of healthcare access.

For someone considering moving to Plainville, a thorough assessment of these transportation factors is essential. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer-related healthcare in the area. It highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of all available transportation options.

The final Breast Cancer Score would be a composite metric, reflecting the accessibility of healthcare based on the factors discussed above. It would consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, medical transportation services, the quality and range of services offered at local hospitals and clinics, the availability of supportive care services, and the financial burden of healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score for Plainville, Indiana (ZIP Code 47568) is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing accessible and equitable healthcare for all its residents. It's a call to action, urging further investment in transportation infrastructure and supportive services to ensure that individuals facing breast cancer have the resources they need to navigate their journey with dignity and ease.