47520, Cannelton, Indiana COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 47520, Cannelton, Indiana is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.25 percent of residents in 47520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 35.08 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cannelton (ZIP Code 47520)

The air hangs heavy in Cannelton, Indiana (ZIP Code 47520), a small Ohio River town where the legacy of industry and the realities of rural life intertwine. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the quality of life hinges not only on medical care but also on the ability to access it. This "COPD Score" assesses the accessibility of healthcare, focusing on transportation options within and around Cannelton, crucial for those with breathing difficulties. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare access that is especially relevant for individuals considering moving to Cannelton.

Cannelton's location, nestled in Perry County, presents a unique challenge. The town itself is small, and specialized medical services are often located in larger regional centers. This necessitates a careful evaluation of transportation options. The primary artery through Cannelton is **Highway 66**, a two-lane road that snakes along the river, offering scenic views but also potential delays due to traffic or weather. Heading east on Highway 66 connects to **Highway 37**, a route that leads to Tell City, the closest town with a hospital.

Drive times are a critical factor. Reaching Tell City, approximately 10 miles east, via Highway 66 and Highway 37, typically takes 15-20 minutes under normal conditions. However, this can fluctuate. Traffic, particularly during peak hours or construction, could extend travel times. Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or fog, common in the Ohio River Valley, can further impact drive times and accessibility, potentially isolating individuals with COPD.

Venturing further afield, the closest major healthcare hubs are in Evansville, approximately 60 miles west, and Louisville, about 100 miles east. Traveling to Evansville necessitates taking Highway 66 west to **Highway 62**, then connecting to **Interstate 64**. This journey can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Accessing Louisville involves traveling east on Highway 66, then connecting to **Highway 162** and eventually **Interstate 64**. This drive can consume 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, again contingent on traffic.

Public transportation options are limited in Cannelton and Perry County. The primary provider is the **Perry County Transit**. The service, however, operates on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This can pose a challenge for individuals with COPD who may require immediate medical attention. The transit system offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that those with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited service area and scheduling requirements can restrict healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can be sparse in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to distant healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with COPD. Several providers operate in the region, including **AMR (American Medical Response)** and local ambulance services. These services provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, as well as emergency situations. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Pre-booking is often required, which can limit flexibility.

Healthcare access in Cannelton is therefore a complex equation. While Tell City provides immediate medical care, specialized services necessitate travel to Evansville or Louisville. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and individuals without reliable transportation face considerable challenges. The limited public transit options and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services exacerbate these difficulties.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Cannelton, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. The ability to drive safely, or the availability of a reliable caregiver to provide transportation, is paramount. Researching the availability and cost of medical transport services is also essential. Planning for potential delays due to traffic or weather is equally important.

The COPD Score for transportation in Cannelton reflects the realities of rural healthcare access. While the town offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the logistical challenges of accessing healthcare should not be underestimated. Understanding the limitations of transportation options is vital for ensuring that individuals with COPD can receive the care they need to manage their condition and maintain a good quality of life. The availability of healthcare access is a pivotal consideration when moving to Cannelton.