46133, Glenwood, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46133, Glenwood, Indiana is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.29 percent of residents in 46133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rush Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.61 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glenwood, Indiana (ZIP Code 46133)

Glenwood, Indiana, a charming town nestled in Rush County, offers a tranquil lifestyle for those seeking respite from the urban sprawl. However, the serenity of rural living presents unique challenges when it comes to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 46133, focusing on the accessibility of medical care, considering **transportation** options and their associated complexities. If you are **moving to Glenwood**, understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining your health.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a standardized metric but a composite assessment reflecting the ease with which a resident of 46133 can reach medical professionals and services relevant to hypertension management. This includes primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and diagnostic facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. It also factors in the presence of ADA-accessible transportation, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with hypertension.

**Driving the Distance: The Road to Healthcare**

For residents of Glenwood, the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Rushville, approximately 10 miles east, and Shelbyville, roughly 20 miles west. Driving times, of course, vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The most direct route to Rushville is typically via State Road 44, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes. Reaching Shelbyville involves navigating State Road 44 west, followed by either State Road 9 or U.S. 52, depending on the specific destination within Shelbyville. This journey generally takes 25-35 minutes.

Access to Indianapolis, the regional hub for specialized medical care, presents a more considerable challenge. The most common route involves taking State Road 44 west to Interstate 74, a major interstate highway. The drive to Indianapolis, depending on the specific location, can range from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, significantly impacting **healthcare access** for those with urgent needs or frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Glenwood are severely limited. Rush County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive due to age or disability, or face financial constraints. This is a crucial factor to consider when **moving to Glenwood**.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the Rush County Council on Aging and the Rush County Senior Center offer limited transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services often require advance booking and are primarily intended for essential appointments, such as medical visits. However, these services may have limited availability and may not always align with individual needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, they are not a reliable solution for all **transportation** needs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services are typically reserved for those with specific medical needs and may require prior authorization or insurance coverage.

Several NEMT providers serve the Glenwood area, including local ambulance services and regional companies. These services often provide door-to-door service, ensuring that patients are safely transported to their appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

The availability of ADA-accessible **transportation** is a critical factor for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for those managing hypertension. While some NEMT providers offer ADA-compliant vehicles, the availability and cost of these services can vary. The lack of readily available ADA-accessible public transit options in Rush County further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

**Pharmacy Access: Essential for Medication Management**

Access to pharmacies is crucial for managing hypertension. Glenwood itself has limited pharmacy services. Residents typically rely on pharmacies in Rushville or Shelbyville for prescription refills and over-the-counter medications. The drive times to these pharmacies, as previously discussed, add to the overall **transportation** burden.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of Glenwood (46133) is moderate. While the proximity to Rushville offers relatively quick access to primary care and pharmacy services, the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the longer travel times to Indianapolis for specialized care present significant challenges.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** system and the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport services make it difficult for individuals without access to a car to consistently attend medical appointments. The limited availability of ADA-accessible **transportation** further compounds these challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the "Hypertension Score" for Glenwood residents, several measures could be considered. Encouraging the development of a local public transit system, even a demand-response service, would significantly enhance **healthcare access**, especially for those without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted fares for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Increasing the availability of ADA-accessible **transportation** options, including NEMT services and ride-sharing, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Exploring telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, could also reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Glenwood**

For those **moving to Glenwood**, understanding the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access** is paramount. While Glenwood offers a peaceful environment, the challenges associated with accessing medical care, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, must be carefully considered. By understanding the limitations of the current system and exploring available resources, residents can proactively manage their health and ensure they receive the necessary medical care. The availability of reliable **transportation** remains the key to improving the "Hypertension Score" and ensuring that all residents of Glenwood have equitable access to the healthcare they need.