47140, Marengo, Indiana COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 47140, Marengo, Indiana is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.13 percent of residents in 47140 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Paoli Hospital with a distance of 14.28 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Marengo, Indiana (ZIP Code 47140)

The air hangs heavy in the hills of Marengo, Indiana (ZIP Code 47140), a place where the whispers of wind through the trees often carry the scent of damp earth and the promise of a slow, deliberate pace. For those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), however, this tranquility can be shadowed by the stark reality of healthcare access, a critical factor in their ability to live comfortably and manage their condition. This write-up assesses the "COPD Score" for residents of 47140, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, a vital component of their overall well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Marengo is the automobile. Driving remains the primary mode of transportation, particularly for those with COPD, who often require frequent appointments and face mobility challenges. The nearest major healthcare hubs are in the larger towns of Paoli and Salem, both reachable by car. The journey to Paoli, home to IU Health Paoli Hospital, involves navigating Indiana State Road 37, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. The drive typically takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes, a manageable distance for most, but the winding roads and potential for delays can be problematic for those with breathing difficulties.

Salem, with its St. Vincent Salem Hospital, is accessible via Indiana State Road 60. This route offers a slightly longer drive, around 30 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 47140. The roads are generally well-maintained, but again, the potential for traffic, particularly during agricultural seasons when farm equipment may be present, could pose a challenge. Both routes involve navigating rural landscapes, where cell service can be spotty, potentially hindering communication in case of emergencies.

Public transportation options in 47140 are limited, a significant factor in the COPD Score. There is no dedicated public bus service that directly connects Marengo to healthcare facilities in Paoli or Salem. This lack of accessible public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This is a critical consideration for individuals whose COPD symptoms may fluctuate, making driving unsafe at times.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services is a key consideration for individuals with COPD who require scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a financial burden, further impacting healthcare access for those on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized option for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transport may provide transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have limited availability, especially for urgent needs. The cost of medical transportation can also be substantial, potentially adding to the financial strain of managing COPD.

For those considering moving to Marengo, the transportation landscape is a crucial element to consider, especially for those with COPD. The lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services demand careful planning. Proximity to healthcare facilities is paramount, but the ease of access is equally important. The COPD Score for 47140 reflects this reality, highlighting the need for careful consideration of transportation options when assessing the suitability of the area for individuals with respiratory conditions.

The availability of ADA-compliant transportation is another critical factor. The absence of a public transit system with ADA accessibility creates a significant barrier for individuals with COPD who may also have mobility impairments. Ride-sharing services are not always guaranteed to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, and medical transportation services, while often equipped, may have limited capacity.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of home healthcare services. The presence of home healthcare providers can mitigate the challenges of transportation by bringing medical care directly to the patient. However, the availability and quality of these services can vary, and their accessibility depends on insurance coverage and the patient's specific needs.

The overall COPD Score for 47140 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Paoli and Salem is a positive factor, the limited transportation options, particularly the absence of public transit, pose significant challenges. Individuals with COPD must rely primarily on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services with uncertain availability, or potentially expensive medical transportation.

The winding roads and potential for traffic delays on Indiana State Road 37 and Indiana State Road 60 require careful consideration. The lack of readily available public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services demand careful planning.

The COPD Score underscores the need for individuals with COPD to proactively assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. This may involve establishing relationships with medical transportation providers, coordinating appointments to minimize travel time, and exploring the potential for home healthcare services. For those considering moving to Marengo, the transportation landscape is a crucial element to consider. The limited options and the potential for delays can significantly impact their ability to manage their condition and maintain their quality of life. The COPD Score for 47140 reflects this reality, highlighting the need for careful consideration of transportation options when assessing the suitability of the area for individuals with respiratory conditions.