46371, Rolling Prairie, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46371, Rolling Prairie, Indiana is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.82 percent of residents in 46371 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Health-La Porte with a distance of 8.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rolling Prairie (46371)

Rolling Prairie, Indiana (ZIP Code 46371), a tranquil community nestled in LaPorte County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. This analysis, designed to create a "Hypertension Score," examines the transportation infrastructure and its impact on residents seeking medical attention, particularly those managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent and timely care. The score will reflect the ease with which individuals can reach essential healthcare services, considering various modes of transportation and their associated challenges. This is crucial for anyone moving to Rolling Prairie, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The primary challenge in 46371 is its relative isolation. The nearest major healthcare facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. This reliance on cars significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect this reliance and its implications.

Driving to healthcare appointments in 46371 often involves navigating a network of roads. The most direct route to La Porte, the county seat and a hub for medical services, typically involves traveling east on **State Road 2** and then **U.S. 35**. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Further destinations, such as South Bend, Indiana, or Michigan City, Indiana, will require a longer commute, adding to the potential stress and inconvenience for individuals managing hypertension.

**U.S. 20** provides another route, offering access to healthcare facilities in Michigan City. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times. The condition of the roads themselves, with potential potholes or uneven surfaces, can also impact travel comfort, especially for individuals with hypertension who may experience heightened anxiety or physical discomfort during travel.

Public transportation options in 46371 are limited. The South Shore Line, a commuter rail line, does not directly serve Rolling Prairie. The nearest station is in Michigan City, requiring a drive to the station, adding another layer to the commute. Local bus services are practically non-existent, leaving residents with few alternatives to driving. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or choose not to.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for any public transportation. The absence of readily available public transit in 46371 raises concerns about healthcare access for individuals with disabilities. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the lack of accessible transportation options, recognizing that this can create significant barriers to receiving timely medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability can vary. In a rural area like 46371, the wait times for a ride-share can be longer, and the cost can be higher compared to urban areas. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like **Care Ambulance** and **Medstar Ambulance** provide non-emergency medical transportation. However, the availability of these services, especially for routine appointments, can be limited, and the cost can be a significant factor.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the availability of pharmacies in Rolling Prairie and the surrounding areas. Access to medication is critical for managing hypertension. The proximity of pharmacies, along with their operating hours, will be factored into the score. The ability to quickly and easily obtain prescribed medications is a crucial element of healthcare access.

The impact of weather conditions on transportation is another important consideration. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can significantly impact driving conditions, making it more difficult and dangerous to travel to healthcare appointments. The "Hypertension Score" will account for the potential for weather-related delays and disruptions.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a complete solution, as it cannot replace all in-person care, such as physical examinations or diagnostic tests. The "Hypertension Score" will recognize the potential benefits of telehealth while acknowledging its limitations.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the availability of community resources, such as senior centers or community health clinics, that may offer transportation assistance or health education programs. These resources can play a crucial role in supporting individuals with hypertension.

The ultimate "Hypertension Score" for 46371 will be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It will provide a nuanced assessment of the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in Rolling Prairie. The score will serve as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas for improvement and informing strategies to enhance healthcare access for all. This is especially important for anyone moving to Rolling Prairie, as they need to understand the healthcare landscape.

This "Hypertension Score" will provide a comprehensive overview of healthcare access in 46371. The score will reflect the realities of transportation, the availability of medical services, and the impact of these factors on individuals managing hypertension. The score will be a useful tool for assessing healthcare access and informing strategies to improve health outcomes in Rolling Prairie.