47640, Hazleton, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47640, Hazleton, Indiana is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.67 percent of residents in 47640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gibson General Hospital with a distance of 9.77 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hazleton, IN (ZIP Code 47640)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, and the journey to recovery is often paved with challenges. One of the most significant hurdles, particularly in rural areas, is **healthcare access**. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 47640 (Hazleton, Indiana), examines the landscape of **transportation** options available to residents seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Considering the impact of **transportation** on timely care is crucial, especially for those considering **moving to Hazleton** or already residing within its boundaries. We delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a nuanced understanding of the practical realities faced by patients.

Hazleton, a small town nestled in southwestern Indiana, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. Understanding the available **transportation** options is therefore paramount. This score provides a framework for assessing the relative ease or difficulty of accessing vital breast cancer services, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their lives.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Care**

The primary mode of **transportation** for residents of Hazleton is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by distance and traffic conditions. The closest hospitals with oncology services are located in Vincennes, Indiana, approximately 20 miles away. The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on the route and traffic. The most direct route involves taking **Indiana State Road 57** north to **US-50 West**. This route is generally well-maintained but can experience increased traffic during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Evansville, Indiana, roughly 60 miles from Hazleton, offers a wider range of oncology services, including radiation therapy and specialized surgical procedures. The drive to Evansville typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, utilizing **Indiana State Road 57** south and then connecting to **Interstate 64 West**. This route, while primarily highway, can be subject to delays due to construction or accidents, especially on **I-64**.

The availability of reliable personal **transportation** is therefore a critical factor in accessing timely care. For individuals without a vehicle, the challenges are amplified, highlighting the importance of alternative **transportation** options. These drive times are estimates and can vary depending on the specific destination within each city and prevailing traffic conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transit options in Hazleton are extremely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public bus system, making it challenging for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare facilities. The nearest public transit options are available in Vincennes, but these are limited and may not directly serve Hazleton. The Vincennes Transit System offers fixed-route bus services within the city, but these routes do not extend to Hazleton.

The absence of a robust public transit system poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive, including seniors, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The lack of ADA-compliant buses further exacerbates the problem for individuals with mobility challenges. The absence of a readily available public transit network necessitates reliance on alternative modes of **transportation**, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, which can be costly and less readily available.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services in Hazleton is variable and often dependent on driver availability. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares compared to larger metropolitan areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled appointments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, is a crucial consideration.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, medical transport can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary. Several medical **transportation** companies serve the region, including First Response Medical Transport and American Medical Response (AMR). Availability and cost are significant factors to consider.

**The Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Hazleton, IN (47640) would incorporate several factors:

* **Drive Time Analysis:** Assessing the average drive times to key healthcare facilities (hospitals, cancer centers, imaging centers) using multiple routes and accounting for potential traffic delays.
* **Public Transit Assessment:** Evaluating the availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options, including ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Analyzing the reliability, cost, and availability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Assessing the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical **transportation** services.
* **Community Resources:** Identifying and evaluating any local initiatives or programs that provide **transportation** assistance to patients.

Based on these factors, a composite score would be generated, reflecting the overall ease or difficulty of accessing breast cancer care. The score would be presented with a clear explanation of the methodology and limitations.

**Implications for Moving to Hazleton and Beyond**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a valuable tool for individuals considering **moving to Hazleton** or already residing there. It provides critical information about the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. For those considering a move, the score can inform decisions about housing location, proximity to healthcare facilities, and the need for a personal vehicle.

For current residents, the score highlights the importance of planning and preparing for healthcare appointments. This includes arranging for **transportation** well in advance, exploring all available options, and understanding the potential costs and challenges. The score can also be used to advocate for improved **transportation** infrastructure and services in the community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the critical link between **transportation** and health outcomes. By understanding the challenges and opportunities in Hazleton, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for a more accessible and equitable healthcare system. This analysis serves as a starting point for a more comprehensive assessment, encouraging further investigation and community action to improve **healthcare access** for all residents.