47584, Spurgeon, Indiana COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 47584, Spurgeon, Indiana is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.99 percent of residents in 47584 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 15.23 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Spurgeon, Indiana (ZIP Code 47584)

The crisp air of Spurgeon, Indiana, nestled in the heart of the Hoosier State, holds a certain charm. But for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the reality of accessing healthcare can be far less idyllic. This analysis, a "COPD Score" for the 47584 ZIP code, delves into the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, a crucial consideration for anyone moving to Spurgeon or already residing there. It examines drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals living with COPD.

The primary concern for COPD patients revolves around timely access to medical care. Exacerbations, sudden worsening of symptoms, demand immediate attention. Delays in reaching a clinic or hospital can have devastating consequences. Therefore, transportation becomes a critical lifeline. The "COPD Score" aims to quantify the ease or difficulty of this journey, providing a valuable resource for informed decision-making.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in this rural area. From Spurgeon, the closest major healthcare facilities are in Vincennes, Indiana, approximately 15 miles away. The journey typically involves navigating **State Road 61** south and then merging onto **U.S. 50** east. During off-peak hours, this drive can be completed in around 20-25 minutes. However, rush hour, especially weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this travel time, potentially reaching 35-40 minutes.

Further afield, the city of Evansville, Indiana, offers a broader range of specialized medical services. This trip, roughly 60 miles southwest, requires traveling on **State Road 61** south, connecting to **U.S. 41** south. Expect a drive time of approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and thirty minutes under normal traffic conditions. This longer distance underscores the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for increased travel-related stress for COPD patients.

Public transportation options in Spurgeon are limited. The local transit authority, if any, may not operate routes directly serving the area or may have infrequent schedules. This lack of readily available public transit severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This is a significant disadvantage for those with COPD, who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or other symptoms that make driving difficult or unsafe.

While formal public transit is scarce, the availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Spurgeon warrants investigation. The presence of these services can vary based on demand and driver availability. While these services can offer a degree of flexibility, they can also be expensive, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or at odd hours, is another critical factor.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, represent another option. These services often provide specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, and other medical equipment. They also offer trained personnel to assist patients during transport. However, the availability of such services in Spurgeon needs to be confirmed. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

The "COPD Score" also considers the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of available transportation. For public transit, this includes features such as wheelchair lifts, ramps, and designated seating. For ride-sharing services, it means ensuring drivers are equipped to assist passengers with mobility limitations. The availability of accessible transportation is crucial for individuals with COPD who may require assistance with getting in and out of vehicles or navigating medical facilities.

For individuals considering moving to Spurgeon, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The "COPD Score" provides a framework for evaluating the practicality of accessing healthcare. Factors to consider include proximity to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the associated costs.

Healthcare access in Spurgeon is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, can be impacted by traffic and weather conditions. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services may not be consistently available. Medical transportation services, if available, can offer specialized support but come with a cost.

The "COPD Score" ultimately highlights the importance of careful planning and preparation for individuals with COPD living in or moving to Spurgeon. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ability to afford necessary services are all critical factors in ensuring timely and effective medical care. This analysis serves as a starting point for further investigation, encouraging individuals to explore all available options and make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.