47635, Rockport, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47635, Rockport, Indiana is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.64 percent of residents in 47635 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 14.55 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockport, Indiana (ZIP Code 47635)**

Rockport, Indiana, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique blend of small-town charm and evolving healthcare needs. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" of sorts, delves into the accessibility of breast cancer care from the perspective of a potential resident, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for individuals considering moving to Rockport or already residing within ZIP code 47635.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. Timely access to screenings, diagnostic appointments, treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, and follow-up care significantly impacts outcomes for breast cancer patients. This score considers the practical realities of navigating the local landscape, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

**Drive Time and Roadways: The Automotive Landscape**

For many residents of Rockport, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The major artery connecting Rockport to regional healthcare facilities is **Highway 61**, a vital route that stretches north and south, offering access to Evansville, Indiana, a major medical hub. Driving to Evansville, approximately 30 miles from Rockport, typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The journey involves navigating the relatively straightforward **Highway 61**, which merges onto **Highway 62** as you approach Evansville. This segment of the drive may experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. Within Rockport, local roads like **Main Street** and **Third Street** provide access to essential services, including primary care physicians and pharmacies.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, the primary destination is likely to be the major hospitals in Evansville, such as Deaconess Hospital or St. Vincent Hospital. These facilities offer comprehensive cancer centers equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. The drive to these facilities is manageable, but the time commitment should be factored into any healthcare plan.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Critical Considerations**

Public transportation options in Rockport and the surrounding area are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor when evaluating healthcare access. Currently, the primary public transportation provider in the area is the **Southwestern Indiana Regional Transportation Authority (SWIRTA)**.

SWIRTA operates a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service may be available to residents of Rockport, but its availability and frequency should be carefully investigated. The routes and schedules are subject to change, and it is essential to confirm the service's reach to healthcare facilities in Evansville.

The presence of ADA-accessible vehicles is another critical consideration. Individuals with mobility limitations require accessible transportation to attend appointments and receive care. Confirming the availability of accessible vehicles and the ease of scheduling them is vital.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Evansville, and their presence offers an alternative to driving. However, the availability of these services in Rockport itself may be limited, especially during off-peak hours. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments requires careful planning and consideration of potential wait times and costs.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized option for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. Several medical transport companies operate in the Evansville area, offering services like wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transportation. Researching these services and understanding their coverage area, insurance acceptance, and cost is crucial.

**Specific Medical Transportation Brands**

Several medical transportation brands serve the Evansville area, and some may extend their services to Rockport. These include, but are not limited to:

* **Care Ride Transportation:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **First Call Medical Transportation:** Provides a range of medical transport services.
* **AmbuCare:** Specializes in non-emergency medical transportation.

Contacting these providers directly is essential to determine their availability and services within ZIP code 47635.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Rockport, Indiana, highlights the importance of a multifaceted approach to healthcare access. While the drive to Evansville is manageable, the limited public transportation options and potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation services introduce complexities.

For individuals considering moving to Rockport, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully investigate the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options.

The proximity of Evansville, with its comprehensive cancer care facilities, offers a significant advantage. However, the journey to these facilities requires planning and consideration of potential travel times and costs.

**Recommendations: Enhancing Healthcare Access**

To improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients in Rockport, several initiatives could be considered:

* **Expanding Public Transit:** Advocating for increased public transit routes and frequency, particularly to healthcare facilities in Evansville, would significantly benefit residents.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing:** Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services in Rockport, potentially through partnerships with local businesses or organizations.
* **Supporting Medical Transportation:** Providing resources and information about medical transportation services to residents.
* **Community Awareness:** Raising awareness about the importance of early detection and screening for breast cancer.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Promoting the use of telehealth services for follow-up appointments and consultations, reducing the need for frequent travel.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Rockport can enhance healthcare access and improve the quality of life for individuals facing breast cancer. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for understanding the current landscape and advocating for positive change.