46746, Howe, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46746, Howe, Indiana is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.24 percent of residents in 46746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Lagrange Hospital with a distance of 5.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 46746

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension, demands a granular understanding of local resources. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 46746, encompassing the town of Howe, Indiana, and assesses the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities. The goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score," a qualitative measure reflecting the challenges and opportunities individuals with hypertension face when accessing essential medical care. This score considers various transportation options, drive times, and accessibility features, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Howe.

The cornerstone of this assessment is **transportation**, the vital link connecting individuals to their healthcare providers. For residents of 46746, the primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The town's rural nature and limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on cars for most errands, including medical appointments. Therefore, drive times to key healthcare facilities become a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score.

Several highways and roads serve the Howe area. Indiana State Road 9, a north-south artery, runs directly through Howe, providing quick access to the surrounding towns. Traveling north on SR 9 leads to LaGrange, approximately a 15-minute drive, where residents can find the Parkview LaGrange Hospital. This facility offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, a critical specialty for hypertension management. Heading south on SR 9, a 20-minute drive brings you to Kendallville, which also has medical facilities.

US-20, a major east-west highway, intersects with SR 9 near Howe. This provides access to larger regional centers like Fort Wayne, about a 45-minute drive west. Fort Wayne boasts a concentration of specialized medical services, including the Parkview Regional Medical Center and Lutheran Hospital of Indiana. These hospitals offer advanced cardiology departments, crucial for complex hypertension cases. The drive to Fort Wayne, while longer, opens doors to a broader range of specialists and treatment options.

The quality of roads and traffic conditions also influence the Hypertension Score. While SR 9 and US-20 are generally well-maintained, winter weather can pose challenges, potentially delaying or disrupting travel. The lack of significant traffic congestion in the area is a positive factor, especially compared to more urban environments.

Public transit options in 46746 are limited. The primary provider is typically the LaGrange County Public Transportation, which offers demand-response services. This means riders must schedule rides in advance, making spontaneous trips difficult. The service may not always be available for same-day appointments. The buses may offer ADA-accessible features, but it is vital to confirm availability and scheduling procedures. The service is likely to be less frequent and operate on a more limited schedule compared to larger urban areas.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the Howe area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which may be lower in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also add to the financial burden of healthcare access, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services are another option for individuals needing assistance. Several companies specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments, often offering door-to-door service. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, availability and cost vary depending on the provider. Some medical transport brands to consider include: MedTrans, or First Medical Transport.

The Hypertension Score for 46746 is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive times to local healthcare facilities, such as Parkview LaGrange Hospital, are a positive attribute. However, the limited public transportation options and potential reliance on personal vehicles raise concerns for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The longer drive times to Fort Wayne, while offering access to specialized care, can be a barrier for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their reliability and cost must be considered. Overall, the Hypertension Score for 46746 is moderate. While healthcare access is present, it is not without challenges. Individuals with hypertension must carefully consider their transportation options and plan accordingly to ensure they can consistently attend medical appointments and receive the necessary care.

For those considering moving to Howe, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Individuals with hypertension should assess their ability to drive or access alternative transportation options before relocating. Careful consideration of the proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized services is essential.

The Hypertension Score for 46746 is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives. Expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting medical transportation services can significantly enhance healthcare access for residents. Such measures can help ensure that individuals with hypertension receive timely and effective care, regardless of their transportation capabilities.