47584, Spurgeon, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47584, Spurgeon, Indiana is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.99 percent of residents in 47584 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 15.23 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Spurgeon, Indiana (ZIP Code 47584)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not only the emotional and physical toll of the disease itself, but also the practical challenges of accessing timely and appropriate medical care. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 47584 (Spurgeon, Indiana), aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite assessment of transportation accessibility to crucial healthcare resources. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. It’s designed to assist residents in making informed decisions about their healthcare access, especially for those considering moving to Spurgeon.

Spurgeon, a small community in Daviess County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural location necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. However, the area's proximity to larger towns and cities like Washington and Vincennes offers access to a wider range of medical specialists and facilities. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect these realities, providing a realistic picture of the transportation landscape for those seeking breast cancer care.

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

The primary mode of transportation for most Spurgeon residents is the personal vehicle. Assessing drive times to key healthcare facilities is therefore paramount. The primary thoroughfare connecting Spurgeon to the wider world is US-50, a major east-west artery. Heading east on US-50, residents can reach Washington, Indiana, the county seat, in approximately 15-20 minutes. Washington is home to Daviess Community Hospital, a critical resource for initial screenings, diagnostic imaging, and potentially some chemotherapy services.

Further east, US-50 intersects with US-231, providing access to Bloomington, Indiana, about an hour and a half away. Bloomington is home to Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital, a regional hub offering comprehensive cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and advanced clinical trials. This longer drive necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays.

To the west, US-50 leads to Vincennes, Indiana, a journey of approximately 30-40 minutes. Vincennes is home to Good Samaritan Hospital, which may offer additional specialized services. Residents may also choose to travel south on IN-57 towards Evansville, a journey of approximately an hour and fifteen minutes. Evansville boasts a greater concentration of specialized cancer centers and oncologists.

These drive times, while relatively manageable, highlight the importance of vehicle reliability and the potential for travel fatigue, especially for patients undergoing treatment. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the impact of these drive times on the overall accessibility of care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Spurgeon are extremely limited. Daviess County does offer a demand-response public transit system, the Daviess County Transit. However, service is typically limited to weekdays, and routes are not fixed. Riders must schedule rides in advance, making this option less than ideal for spontaneous appointments or emergency situations. Furthermore, information regarding ADA accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts or ramps, is essential for assessing the suitability of public transit for all residents.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. It underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive due to illness or treatment side effects. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect this limitation.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader area, but their presence in Spurgeon itself is variable. Availability often depends on driver density and demand. Booking a ride may require advance planning, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could significantly increase costs. This factor will be incorporated into the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. Companies such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers may operate in the area. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the availability and affordability of these services.

**The Composite Score: A Holistic View**

The Breast Cancer Score for Spurgeon (ZIP code 47584) will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted impact of each transportation factor. Drive times will be weighted heavily, given the reliance on personal vehicles. Public transit limitations will negatively impact the score. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport will also be factored in.

This score is not merely a number; it's a reflection of the lived experience of individuals navigating breast cancer care in this rural setting. It highlights the need for careful planning, the importance of support networks, and the potential challenges faced by those without reliable transportation.

**Moving to Spurgeon: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Spurgeon, the Breast Cancer Score provides a crucial element of the decision-making process. Potential residents, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or a family history, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare. Questions to consider include:

* Do you have reliable access to a vehicle?
* Are you comfortable with the drive times to various medical facilities?
* Do you have a support network that can provide transportation assistance?
* What are the costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport?
* Does your insurance cover medical transportation services?

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a tool to help answer these questions, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare access in Spurgeon. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and the need to consider transportation logistics when choosing a place to live.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Accessing breast cancer care in Spurgeon, Indiana, requires a multifaceted approach. While the area offers access to a range of medical facilities, transportation limitations present challenges. The Breast Cancer Score, reflecting drive times, public transit constraints, ride-share availability, and medical transport options, offers a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape. By understanding these factors, residents and potential newcomers can make informed decisions, navigate the journey to healthcare, and ensure timely access to the vital care they need. The score, ultimately, is a testament to the importance of accessible transportation in the face of a formidable disease.