46702, Andrews, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46702, Andrews, Indiana is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.27 percent of residents in 46702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Huntington Hospital with a distance of 8.68 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 46702

The quaint town of Andrews, Indiana, nestled within the 46702 ZIP code, offers a charming, close-knit community. However, like many rural areas, it presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Andrews, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment to gauge the ease with which residents can access essential medical care. Understanding these complexities is crucial for both current residents and those considering moving to Andrews, especially if they are managing their blood pressure.

The core of our analysis centers on the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. For residents with hypertension, consistent and timely access to appointments, medication refills, and potentially emergency services is paramount. Delays or difficulties in transportation can significantly impact health outcomes, potentially leading to uncontrolled blood pressure, increased risk of cardiovascular events, and a diminished quality of life.

Andrews itself is a small town, and the majority of residents likely rely on personal vehicles for transportation. This is the most direct and readily available option for reaching healthcare facilities. However, factors such as vehicle ownership, maintenance costs, and the ability to drive, particularly for elderly individuals or those with mobility limitations, can create barriers.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary arteries connecting Andrews to healthcare are the major roadways. State Road 124 (SR-124) serves as a crucial east-west corridor, providing direct access to Huntington, a larger town offering a wider array of medical services. Driving time to Huntington Memorial Hospital, a key healthcare provider, is typically around 15-20 minutes, a relatively manageable commute.

North-south travel relies on county roads and State Road 9 (SR-9). SR-9 offers access to larger cities like Fort Wayne, approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive. This opens up access to specialized medical centers, including Parkview Regional Medical Center and Lutheran Hospital, offering comprehensive cardiovascular care and other specialized services. However, the longer drive times and potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can pose a challenge, especially for individuals with urgent medical needs.

The condition of these roadways is also a factor. While generally well-maintained, inclement weather, such as snow or ice, can significantly impact travel times and safety, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within and around Andrews are limited. The Huntington Area Transportation (HAT) provides some services within Huntington County. However, the routes are often infrequent, and the service area may not extend directly into Andrews or offer convenient access to all healthcare facilities.

HAT does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of extensive routes and the potential for long wait times can make public transit a less-than-ideal option for individuals needing regular medical appointments or facing urgent health concerns. The absence of a dedicated public transit system within Andrews itself is a significant disadvantage, particularly for those who cannot drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Huntington and Fort Wayne areas. While they can offer a more flexible transportation option than public transit, their availability in Andrews may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could make them cost-prohibitive for regular healthcare visits.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance services or specialized medical transport companies, are available for individuals who require assistance due to mobility limitations or medical conditions. These services are typically reserved for appointments or situations that require special assistance.

**The Hypertension Score: Assessing Healthcare Access**

Based on the factors discussed, we can assign a preliminary "Hypertension Score" for residents of 46702. This score is a subjective assessment, reflecting the overall ease of access to healthcare for individuals managing hypertension.

* **Drive Time:** Relatively short drive times to Huntington for basic care are a positive factor. Longer drive times to Fort Wayne for specialized services pose a challenge.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options significantly reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability of ride-sharing services offers a supplementary option, but limitations exist.
* **Medical Transportation:** Availability of medical transportation provides a safety net for individuals with specific needs.
* **Overall:** Considering these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for 46702 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers, particularly for those without access to a car or with mobility limitations.

**Implications for Moving to Andrews**

For individuals considering moving to Andrews, especially those managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access is crucial. It's important to:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate vehicle ownership, driving ability, and the ability to maintain a vehicle.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify preferred physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, and determine their proximity to Andrews.
* **Explore Transportation Alternatives:** Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.
* **Consider Proximity to Services:** Evaluate the proximity of essential services such as pharmacies, grocery stores, and emergency medical services.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a plan for accessing healthcare in case of emergencies, including knowledge of local ambulance services and hospital locations.

**Conclusion**

The 46702 ZIP code presents a mixed bag for healthcare access. While Andrews offers a close-knit community and proximity to basic medical care in Huntington, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding these transportation dynamics is essential for residents and those considering moving to Andrews. Proactive planning, awareness of available resources, and a willingness to adapt to the local transportation landscape can help ensure that residents of 46702 have access to the healthcare they need to manage their health effectively and maintain a good quality of life. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that transportation is a critical component of healthcare access, and addressing these challenges is essential for creating a healthier community.