47977, Remington, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47977, Remington, Indiana is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.86 percent of residents in 47977 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franciscan Health Rensselaer, Inc with a distance of 12.26 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Remington, IN (ZIP Code 47977)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, requires careful deliberation. For those contemplating a move to Remington, Indiana (ZIP Code 47977), understanding the landscape of breast cancer care is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" – a holistic assessment of transportation options and healthcare facilities within reach, offering a nuanced perspective on the practicalities of accessing vital services. This score, while not a definitive medical evaluation, serves as a crucial guide for informed decision-making, particularly for individuals seeking or managing breast cancer care.

The score considers various factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of specialized medical transportation. This information is then synthesized to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Remington. Ultimately, the goal is to empower prospective residents with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of healthcare in their new community.

**The Geographic Context: Remington and Its Surroundings**

Remington, a small town nestled in Jasper County, Indiana, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's rural setting necessitates reliance on transportation for most medical appointments, especially those involving specialized care like breast cancer treatment. Understanding the available transportation options is, therefore, the cornerstone of assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for this ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in Remington is personal vehicle. The drive times to facilities offering breast cancer services are a crucial element in our score. The closest major medical centers are located in Lafayette, Indiana, approximately 40 miles to the south, and in Chicago, Illinois, roughly 110 miles to the northwest.

Traveling to Lafayette typically involves utilizing **US-231 South** and then connecting to **I-65 South**. The drive time can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or due to inclement weather.

For more specialized care, or if a patient needs to see a specialist, Chicago offers a wider array of options. The journey to Chicago usually involves taking **I-65 North**. The drive time is significantly longer, averaging around two hours, excluding potential traffic congestion around the Chicago metropolitan area. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential fatigue.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in and around Remington are severely limited. Jasper County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the county may offer demand-response transportation services, such as a dial-a-ride program, for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services usually require advance booking and are primarily intended for essential trips, including medical appointments. It is crucial to investigate the availability, eligibility requirements, and accessibility features (ADA compliance) of any such services within Jasper County.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lafayette and Chicago areas. However, their availability in Remington itself is unpredictable and often limited. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments in Lafayette or Chicago is, therefore, not always feasible.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more reliable alternative for those requiring assistance. Companies like **LogistiCare** and **MTA Medical Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require pre-scheduling and may involve varying costs depending on the distance and level of assistance required. Investigating the availability and coverage of these services in the Remington area is essential.

**Healthcare Facilities: Assessing the Landscape**

The availability of breast cancer care facilities in the immediate vicinity of Remington is limited. Residents typically need to travel to larger cities for comprehensive services.

**IU Health Arnett Hospital** in Lafayette offers a range of breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This facility represents the closest major center for care, making it a primary destination for many Remington residents.

For more specialized treatments, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, residents may need to travel to Chicago. The **University of Chicago Medicine** and **Northwestern Memorial Hospital** are two of the major cancer centers in Chicago that provide comprehensive breast cancer care.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in 47977: A Synthesis**

Based on the factors analyzed, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 47977 reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural environment. The score is influenced by the following:

* **Drive Times:** The reliance on personal vehicles and the relatively long drive times to Lafayette (45 minutes - 1 hour) and Chicago (2 hours) for breast cancer care services.
* **Public Transportation:** The limited availability of public transportation and the potential reliance on demand-response services.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services in Remington.
* **Medical Transportation:** The need to investigate specialized medical transportation services and their associated costs.

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

For individuals considering moving to Remington, particularly those with existing breast cancer or a family history, careful consideration of healthcare access is vital. Here are some key takeaways:

* **Transportation is Key:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost essential for accessing healthcare services.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance and factor in potential travel delays.
* **Explore Options:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Research Facilities:** Research the specific breast cancer services offered at facilities in Lafayette and Chicago.
* **Community Support:** Explore local support groups and resources for cancer patients and their families.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Remington, IN (47977) highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape. While the rural setting presents challenges, understanding the available options and proactively planning for transportation and healthcare access can significantly improve the quality of life for residents. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure access to the vital services they require.