47165, Pekin, Indiana COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 47165, Pekin, Indiana is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.04 percent of residents in 47165 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Salem with a distance of 9.59 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47165**

The air hangs heavy with the scent of possibility in Pekin, Indiana (ZIP Code 47165), a rural community nestled in Washington County. For those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This analysis, a "COPD Score," examines the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. It's a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Pekin, particularly those managing respiratory conditions.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 47165 is the automobile. Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. The major thoroughfare is State Road 60, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the county, connecting Pekin to larger towns and cities. Travel times, however, can vary significantly. During peak hours, traffic on SR 60 can be slow, particularly near intersections.

To reach the closest major healthcare provider, St. Vincent Salem Hospital, a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes is typical. The route involves navigating SR 60 east, then turning onto North Shelby Street in Salem. This drive, while relatively short, can be challenging for individuals with COPD, particularly during periods of acute exacerbation. The physical exertion of driving, combined with potential exposure to environmental irritants, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

For more specialized care, residents often need to travel further afield. Louisville, Kentucky, a regional healthcare hub, is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive via I-64. This interstate provides a faster, albeit longer, route. However, the distance and potential for traffic congestion on I-64 can pose significant challenges. The stress of a long drive, coupled with the potential for air pollution from other vehicles, can further complicate COPD management.

Public transportation options are limited in 47165. Washington County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The absence of buses or trains significantly restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This lack of options is a significant factor in the COPD Score, as it disproportionately affects individuals with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

While formal public transit is absent, there are potential alternatives. The Washington County Council on Aging provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, however, is primarily designed for essential trips, such as medical appointments and grocery shopping. Availability and scheduling can be limited, and it may not always be a suitable option for urgent or unscheduled healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness are variable. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which can be scarce in rural areas like Pekin. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for individuals with fixed incomes or limited financial resources. This factor, too, negatively impacts the COPD Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another avenue. Companies like Air Ambulance Worldwide and Angel Flight provide specialized transportation, including air and ground ambulance services. These services are generally reserved for emergencies or long-distance transport, and their cost can be substantial. While they offer a critical lifeline in urgent situations, they are not a practical solution for routine healthcare appointments.

The COPD Score for 47165 reflects the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for individuals with COPD. The distance to specialized care and the potential for traffic congestion further exacerbate these challenges.

The availability of healthcare resources within the community itself also impacts the score. While St. Vincent Salem Hospital offers essential services, the lack of specialized pulmonology care in Pekin necessitates travel to larger cities. This forces patients to navigate the transportation challenges discussed earlier. The absence of local support groups or respiratory therapy services further compounds the difficulties faced by individuals managing COPD.

For someone considering moving to Pekin with COPD, careful consideration of the transportation landscape is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the ability to manage travel-related stress are all critical factors. The COPD Score, therefore, serves as a crucial tool for assessing the suitability of this community for individuals managing respiratory conditions.

The score would be improved by several factors. The establishment of a local public transit system, even a limited one, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Increased availability of ride-sharing services and subsidies for transportation costs would also be beneficial. Furthermore, the presence of a pulmonologist or respiratory therapist within the community would eliminate the need for long-distance travel for specialized care.

In conclusion, while Pekin offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the transportation limitations significantly impact the COPD Score. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for those managing COPD. Prospective residents must carefully weigh these factors when considering a move to this rural community. The ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount, and the current transportation infrastructure presents significant obstacles for individuals with respiratory conditions. The COPD Score underscores the need for improved transportation solutions to ensure healthcare access for all residents of 47165.