47613, Elberfeld, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47613, Elberfeld, Indiana is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.06 percent of residents in 47613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 12.70 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Elberfeld, Indiana (ZIP Code 47613)**

Elberfeld, Indiana, a charming community nestled in the heart of Warrick County, offers a peaceful existence, but the serenity of small-town life can sometimes be juxtaposed with the complexities of accessing specialized healthcare. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” examines the accessibility of breast cancer screening and treatment facilities for residents of ZIP code 47613, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. This is a vital consideration for anyone moving to Elberfeld, particularly those with existing health concerns or a family history of breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape that shapes healthcare access for individuals in need of breast cancer services. This is a critical factor in early detection and successful treatment.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads to Care**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Elberfeld is the automobile. The ability to drive oneself or be driven by a family member or friend significantly impacts the ease and speed with which one can reach medical appointments. The closest facilities offering breast cancer screening and treatment are primarily located in Evansville, a city approximately 20 miles southwest of Elberfeld.

The most direct route to Evansville typically involves utilizing Indiana State Road 68, a two-lane highway that winds its way through the rolling hills and farmland. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, can be completed in approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This time frame is contingent on traffic flow and weather conditions.

Alternatively, one could travel via US Highway 41, a major north-south thoroughfare. This route, while potentially offering a slightly faster trip, is often subject to heavier traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. The drive time on US 41 is comparable to that of State Road 68, but it might be less reliable due to congestion.

For those seeking specialized cancer care, the drive time to facilities in Evansville is crucial. This includes the time required for screening mammograms, follow-up appointments, and, if necessary, treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The drive time to these facilities, even if not excessively long, can add to the stress and burden on patients, particularly those undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Warrick County are limited. The Evansville Transit System (ETS) provides bus service within the city of Evansville, but the availability of routes extending to Elberfeld is virtually non-existent. There is no direct public transit route that connects Elberfeld with Evansville.

This lack of public transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to age, disability, or medical conditions. The absence of public transit severely restricts healthcare access for a segment of the Elberfeld population.

The absence of public transit is a significant barrier to healthcare access. Those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle are effectively isolated from the essential healthcare services available in Evansville. This limitation necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Evansville area, but their availability in Elberfeld is less certain. The frequency and reliability of ride-sharing services in a rural setting like Elberfeld can be variable, depending on the time of day and the availability of drivers.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option for individuals needing assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door transport, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

Several medical transport providers operate in the Evansville area, including companies that specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles, but they provide a valuable service for those with mobility limitations or other special needs.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. These services provide a safe and reliable means of accessing essential healthcare, including breast cancer screening and treatment.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

The Breast Cancer Score for Elberfeld, Indiana, is a complex assessment that considers the interplay of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The score reflects the following key considerations:

* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive time to Evansville for breast cancer services is a positive factor. However, this advantage is diminished by the lack of public transit.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of public transportation significantly limits healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability of ride-sharing services offers a potential solution, but their reliability in Elberfeld is uncertain.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services provide a crucial alternative for those with mobility limitations or other special needs, but the cost can be a barrier.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For residents of Elberfeld, Indiana, the ability to access breast cancer screening and treatment hinges largely on personal transportation. The drive time to Evansville is manageable, but the lack of public transit presents a significant challenge. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, but their availability and cost must be considered.

When moving to Elberfeld, prospective residents, particularly those with a family history of breast cancer or other health concerns, should carefully evaluate their transportation options. This includes assessing their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The Breast Cancer Score for Elberfeld underscores the importance of transportation in healthcare access. It highlights the need for residents to proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring timely access to potentially life-saving breast cancer services.