47464, Stinesville, Indiana COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 47464, Stinesville, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.75 percent of residents in 47464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital with a distance of 11.51 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stinesville (ZIP Code 47464)

The air hangs heavy, a constant companion for those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). For residents of Stinesville, Indiana (ZIP Code 47464), the struggle to breathe is compounded by the challenges of accessing healthcare. This analysis, the "COPD Score," examines the intricate dance between transportation and healthcare access, offering a critical perspective for individuals considering a move or seeking improved care.

Stinesville, nestled in the rolling hills of Owen County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The community is small, rural, and geographically dispersed. This isolation influences every aspect of life, especially when healthcare is concerned. The COPD Score, therefore, considers the practicalities of getting to appointments, filling prescriptions, and accessing emergency services.

The primary mode of transportation for most Stinesville residents is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The nearest significant healthcare hub is Bloomington, approximately 20 miles east. Traveling along State Road 46, the primary artery connecting Stinesville to the larger world, a typical drive takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This route, while generally well-maintained, can become treacherous during inclement weather, adding significant delays and potential risks for individuals with compromised respiratory function.

Another route involves traveling north on State Road 231, then east on State Road 48, before connecting to State Road 46. This alternative offers scenic views but is less direct, potentially adding 10-15 minutes to the commute. The roads themselves, while paved, often lack wide shoulders, making them less accommodating for pedestrians or cyclists.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in this rural setting. Bloomington Transit (BT) does not extend its routes to Stinesville. This absence of public transit significantly impacts individuals who cannot drive, lack access to a vehicle, or are unable to navigate the complexities of driving due to their COPD symptoms. The lack of public transit exacerbates the challenge of healthcare access, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial constraints.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bloomington, but their presence in Stinesville is less reliable. Availability is often dependent on driver proximity and demand, meaning that securing a ride can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for some, further limiting healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Med-Ride and FirstMed offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. However, these services come with a cost, and availability needs to be confirmed in advance. The need for pre-booking and the associated expenses can be a barrier to accessing timely care.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply getting to the doctor's office. Pharmacy access is another critical consideration. Stinesville has a small local pharmacy, but the selection of medications and specialized respiratory equipment might be limited. Residents often need to travel to Bloomington for a wider range of pharmaceutical services, adding another layer of complexity to their healthcare journey.

The availability of emergency services is another critical factor. The Stinesville Volunteer Fire Department provides basic emergency medical services. However, for more complex medical needs, residents must be transported to Bloomington hospitals. The response time, particularly in a rural area, is a significant concern. The distance to the hospital, combined with the potential for traffic or weather-related delays, can impact patient outcomes.

The COPD Score for Stinesville, therefore, reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the costs associated with medical transport all contribute to a complex and potentially stressful situation for COPD sufferers. The geographical isolation, coupled with the lack of readily available resources, creates a healthcare landscape that demands careful consideration.

For individuals contemplating moving to Stinesville, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access, careful planning is essential. This includes assessing the reliability of their personal transportation, exploring the potential for medical transport services, and proactively establishing relationships with healthcare providers in Bloomington.

The COPD Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. This includes understanding the transportation challenges, identifying available resources, and developing strategies to overcome the barriers to healthcare access. This score is not just a numerical assessment; it's a call to action, urging individuals and the community to work together to ensure that those battling COPD in Stinesville receive the care they deserve. The quality of life in Stinesville depends on it.