The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47574, Rome, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
10.98 percent of residents in 47574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.17 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 47574, Rome, Indiana
Breast Cancer Score | 59 |
---|---|
People Score | 88 |
Provider Score | 15 |
Hospital Score | 59 |
Travel Score | 43 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 47574 | Rome | Indiana |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.65 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.52 |
2 Cars | 18.89 | 18.89 | 41.91 |
3 or More Cars | 81.11 | 81.11 | 36.91 |
Vehicular Access in 47574, Rome, Indiana
## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rome, Indiana (ZIP Code 47574)
The diagnosis of breast cancer can feel like a sudden, unwelcome shift, a disorienting journey. Beyond the emotional and physical toll, the practicalities of treatment – appointments, scans, therapies – can be overwhelming. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines transportation options for individuals residing in ZIP Code 47574 (Rome, Indiana), providing insights into healthcare access and the challenges of navigating this complex landscape. It's designed to empower residents with knowledge, facilitating informed decisions about their healthcare journey, especially for those considering moving to Rome.
Rome, Indiana, a community nestled in the heart of Daviess County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The availability and accessibility of healthcare services are crucial determinants of quality of life. This score aims to assess the ease with which residents can access breast cancer-related healthcare, considering the limitations of rural transportation infrastructure.
**Drive Time Dynamics: The Roads to Recovery**
The primary artery for travel in and out of Rome is State Road 57. This highway, while offering a direct route, can experience traffic delays, particularly during peak hours or due to seasonal agricultural activity. The drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer care center, likely in Evansville, Indiana, a city approximately 60 miles south, could take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions.
Navigating this distance requires careful planning. The journey often involves a combination of State Road 57, connecting to Interstate 64. Interstate 64, a major east-west thoroughfare, then provides access to Evansville. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety.
Smaller roads, such as County Road 1000 North and County Road 100 East, offer alternative routes, but they are typically less well-maintained and may not be suitable for all vehicles, especially during inclement weather. These routes are often used to avoid traffic on State Road 57, but they add to the overall travel time.
**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**
Public transportation options in Rome and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Daviess County, being a rural area, does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.
While there might be some demand-response services, such as those offered by the local Council on Aging, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for appointments outside of typical business hours. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these services is also a critical consideration, as individuals with mobility challenges require specialized transportation.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Evansville, but their presence in Rome is less certain. Availability can fluctuate, and the cost of a ride to Evansville, especially considering the distance, could be substantial. This factor presents a financial burden for individuals undergoing treatment.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services that provide non-emergency transport. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.
**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**
The "Breast Cancer Score" is a composite assessment, considering the following factors:
* **Drive Time:** The average travel time to the nearest comprehensive cancer care center, considering traffic and road conditions.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence and accessibility of public transportation options, including ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Road Quality and Weather Conditions:** The impact of road conditions and weather on travel times and safety.
Each factor is weighted based on its impact on healthcare access. For example, drive time and the availability of medical transportation are given higher weight than ride-sharing availability. The score provides a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer-related healthcare in Rome.
**Implications for Residents and Those Considering a Move**
For residents of Rome, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Individuals diagnosed with breast cancer must proactively address the transportation challenges to ensure timely access to care. This may involve relying on family and friends, exploring medical transportation services, or carefully budgeting for ride-sharing.
For those considering moving to Rome, this score provides valuable insights into the healthcare landscape. While Rome offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the limited transportation options and the distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities are important factors to consider. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and resources, ensuring they have a plan for accessing necessary healthcare services.
**Recommendations and Future Considerations**
* **Community Collaboration:** Local organizations, healthcare providers, and community members should collaborate to improve transportation access for individuals with breast cancer.
* **Advocacy for Public Transit:** Advocacy efforts should focus on expanding public transportation options, including demand-response services and partnerships with ride-sharing companies.
* **Financial Assistance:** Programs that provide financial assistance for transportation costs, such as gas cards or subsidies for ride-sharing, can significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** The expansion of telehealth services can reduce the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Road Infrastructure Improvement:** Maintaining and improving road infrastructure, including State Road 57 and Interstate 64, is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient transportation.
The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic tool, reflecting the evolving transportation landscape and healthcare needs of the community. Regular updates and assessments are essential to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness. By understanding the transportation challenges, residents of Rome can proactively navigate the healthcare system and ensure timely access to essential breast cancer-related care. This knowledge is also invaluable for those contemplating a move to Rome, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The journey through breast cancer is challenging, but with careful planning and community support, residents of Rome can navigate the roads to recovery.
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