47404, Bloomington, Indiana COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 47404, Bloomington, Indiana is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.42 percent of residents in 47404 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital with a distance of 4.22 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bloomington, Indiana (ZIP Code 47404)

The diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) necessitates a keen understanding of healthcare access. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, analyzes transportation options for residents of Bloomington, Indiana, specifically ZIP code 47404, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. This information is critical for individuals considering moving to Bloomington or seeking improved healthcare access.

The 47404 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Bloomington, a city nestled in the rolling hills of south-central Indiana. Access to healthcare, particularly for those managing COPD, is a crucial factor in quality of life. Transportation challenges can exacerbate the difficulties associated with this chronic respiratory condition, making timely appointments and treatments more complex.

**Driving the Landscape of Care:**

For those who prefer the independence of personal vehicles, navigating Bloomington's roads is generally manageable. Major thoroughfares like **State Road 37** (soon to be Interstate 69) are vital arteries, connecting the city to Indianapolis and surrounding areas. Travel times to major healthcare facilities, such as **IU Health Bloomington Hospital** (located at 601 W 2nd St, Bloomington, IN 47403), can vary depending on traffic. During peak hours, especially weekdays, expect delays. From many points within 47404, the hospital is typically a 5-15 minute drive, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code.

Other routes to consider include **State Road 45**, which runs east-west, and **State Road 46**, providing another east-west option further south. These roads, while offering alternative routes, can also experience congestion, particularly during rush hour or when events are taking place at Indiana University. Parking at the hospital is readily available, though it may involve a short walk depending on the lot. For those with mobility limitations, designated parking spaces are available.

**Public Transit: A Breath of Fresh Air?**

Bloomington Transit (BT) provides public transportation within the city. Several bus routes serve the 47404 area, offering a potentially cost-effective and accessible alternative to driving. Route numbers and schedules are readily available on the Bloomington Transit website.

**Route 3** and **Route 6** are particularly relevant, as they serve areas within 47404 and provide access to healthcare facilities. The buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, may be limited. Planning your trips in advance and consulting the BT schedule is crucial to ensure you can get to your appointments on time.

**Ride-Sharing: A Convenient Option?**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Bloomington. They offer a convenient option, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. During peak hours or inclement weather, wait times may increase. The cost of ride-sharing can also fluctuate, so it is essential to factor this into your budget when considering healthcare transportation.

**Medical Transport: Specialized Support:**

For individuals with COPD who require specialized medical transportation, several options are available. **American Medical Response (AMR)** provides ambulance services for emergency situations. In addition, non-emergency medical transport services are available from companies like **Care Ride** and **Med-Ride**. These services often provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including those for COPD management. They may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View:**

When considering healthcare access, it's important to look beyond just the transportation options. The proximity of pharmacies, oxygen suppliers, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is equally important. **IU Health Bloomington Hospital** offers a comprehensive range of services, including respiratory therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation. Several pharmacies, such as **CVS** and **Walgreens**, are located within the 47404 area, making it convenient to fill prescriptions.

**Making the Move: Considerations for COPD Patients:**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Bloomington, the 47404 ZIP code offers a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving provides flexibility, traffic and parking can be challenging. Public transit offers a cost-effective alternative, but frequency and accessibility may be limitations. Ride-sharing provides convenience, but availability and cost can vary. Medical transport services offer specialized support when needed.

**The COPD Score: A Summary:**

The "COPD Score" for transportation in 47404 highlights the need for careful planning. The score is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment. The availability of diverse transportation options – driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport – provides a degree of flexibility. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit frequency, and the potential for fluctuating ride-sharing costs require careful consideration.

Individuals with COPD considering moving to Bloomington should thoroughly research the transportation options available in their specific location within the 47404 ZIP code. They should also familiarize themselves with the healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and support services available in the area. By proactively planning their transportation needs and understanding the available resources, individuals with COPD can improve their healthcare access and quality of life in Bloomington.