46173, Rushville, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46173, Rushville, Indiana is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.20 percent of residents in 46173 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rush Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.27 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rushville, Indiana (ZIP Code 46173)

Considering a move to Rushville, Indiana, and concerned about managing hypertension? Understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare** facilities is crucial. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 46173, focusing on **healthcare access** and the practicalities of getting there. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Rushville**.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a formal medical tool. Instead, it's a composite measure reflecting the challenges and conveniences of accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, which often requires regular check-ups and medication refills. Factors considered include proximity to providers, transportation options, and the ease of navigating those options. A higher score indicates greater ease of access.

Rushville, a charming city in rural Indiana, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to healthcare access. The town's relatively small size and limited public transportation options necessitate careful consideration of how one will reach essential medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary consideration for many residents will be driving. Rush Memorial Hospital, the central healthcare provider, is located within the city limits, making it easily accessible for most. However, the efficiency of reaching other specialists or facilities outside of Rushville depends heavily on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code.

From most points within 46173, reaching Rush Memorial Hospital typically involves short drives. Residents living closer to downtown will find the journey particularly quick, often taking less than five minutes. Those residing on the outskirts might experience a drive of up to fifteen minutes, especially during peak hours.

The main arteries for travel within and outside Rushville are US-36 and IN-44. US-36 provides east-west access, connecting Rushville to Indianapolis and other towns. IN-44 runs north-south, linking to nearby cities like Shelbyville and Connersville. The condition of these roads is generally good, but traffic can be a factor, especially during rush hour.

Traveling to Indianapolis for specialized care can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. This journey primarily utilizes US-36 and the I-70 interstate. This longer drive time is a significant factor for those with hypertension, as it necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in Rushville are extremely limited. The city currently does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, making healthcare access considerably more challenging.

For those relying on public transportation, options are severely restricted. Residents would need to rely on friends, family, or potentially, county-provided transportation services, which may have limited availability and require advance scheduling. This lack of readily available public transit contributes to a lower "Hypertension Score" for residents without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in Rushville. While they may be available, wait times can be lengthy, and availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or for trips outside of the city. This unreliability poses a challenge for individuals needing prompt transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, however, offer a more reliable option for those with specific needs. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for appointments. These services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs, but they offer a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize other transportation methods.

**ADA Accessibility:**

While specific details on ADA accessibility for ride-sharing services in Rushville are limited, it is important to inquire about the availability of accessible vehicles when booking. Medical transport services typically offer accessible vehicles, ensuring individuals with mobility limitations can travel comfortably and safely.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, offering services to Rushville residents. These include both local and regional providers. Researching and contacting these providers is crucial for individuals needing medical transportation. This includes checking for insurance coverage and understanding the service's limitations.

**Healthcare Provider Proximity and Specialization:**

Rush Memorial Hospital offers a range of primary care and specialist services, including cardiology, which is critical for hypertension management. The hospital's proximity is a significant advantage for residents. However, accessing specialized care not available locally may necessitate travel to Indianapolis or other larger cities.

The availability of specialists and the need for travel to access them directly impact the "Hypertension Score." The more readily available specialized care, the higher the score.

**The "Hypertension Score" Assessment:**

Considering all factors, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of 46173 is moderate. While Rush Memorial Hospital provides essential services, the limited public transportation and the potential need to travel for specialized care create challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation is a key consideration.

For individuals with hypertension, this means proactively planning transportation to appointments, considering the potential for delays, and exploring all available options, including medical transport services. It also means being aware of the potential for longer travel times to access certain specialists.

**Recommendations for Residents Managing Hypertension:**

* **Establish a strong relationship with a primary care physician at Rush Memorial Hospital.**
* **Explore and pre-arrange medical transportation options.**
* **Factor travel time into appointment scheduling, especially for appointments outside Rushville.**
* **Consider the availability of medication refills and pharmacy access.**
* **If moving to Rushville, carefully evaluate the location of housing relative to the hospital and other medical facilities.**

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Rushville, Indiana, offers a peaceful lifestyle. However, individuals managing hypertension must carefully consider the transportation landscape and healthcare access. By understanding the available options and proactively planning, residents can effectively manage their health and enjoy the benefits of living in this charming community. The moderate "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation for those seeking **healthcare access** while **moving to Rushville**. The limited **transportation** options necessitate a proactive approach to ensure consistent **healthcare access** and the successful management of hypertension.