46913, Bringhurst, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46913, Bringhurst, Indiana is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.64 percent of residents in 46913 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Frankfort Inc with a distance of 16.49 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Healthcare Access in Bringhurst, Indiana (ZIP Code 46913)**

The quiet charm of Bringhurst, Indiana, nestled within Carroll County (ZIP Code 46913), paints a picture of rural tranquility. However, beneath the surface of its idyllic setting lies a critical consideration for residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension: healthcare access. This assessment delves into the complexities of transportation options and their impact on reaching essential medical services, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing care. This is especially pertinent for anyone contemplating moving to Bringhurst.

The primary challenge for Bringhurst residents lies in its relative isolation. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The primary artery for vehicular transportation is **State Road 29 (SR-29)**, which provides a north-south connection. Travel times to healthcare centers vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions, but typically range from 15 to 45 minutes by car. This reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor influencing the Hypertension Score.

Heading south on SR-29, the city of Kokomo presents the most immediate options for healthcare. **Howard Regional Health System**, a major hospital, is accessible via SR-29, with a drive time of approximately 25-35 minutes. This includes **Howard Regional Health System's Medical Pavilion**, which offers a wide range of specialty clinics. However, this travel time can be a considerable burden for individuals with hypertension, particularly during acute episodes or for frequent check-ups.

Further south, the city of Indianapolis, reachable via **US-31** and **Interstate 69**, offers a more comprehensive selection of healthcare providers, including specialized centers and academic hospitals. However, the commute to Indianapolis is significantly longer, typically taking 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer travel time introduces additional challenges for those with hypertension, including increased stress, potential for delays in receiving care, and the added financial burden of longer commutes.

Public transportation options in and around Bringhurst are extremely limited, severely impacting the Hypertension Score. Carroll County does not have a dedicated public transit system. The absence of regular bus routes or train services presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive, or are otherwise reliant on alternative transportation. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region but their availability and reliability in Bringhurst are variable. Ride-share availability is often dependent on driver density and demand, which can be lower in rural areas. This can result in longer wait times, higher fares, and potential difficulties in securing a ride, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This unreliability negatively impacts the Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Care Ambulance** operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit and may require advance booking. However, they offer a valuable service for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is a critical consideration. The absence of a public transit system with ADA-compliant buses and the variable availability of accessible ride-sharing services pose a challenge for individuals with disabilities. This lack of accessible transportation further compounds the difficulties in accessing healthcare and negatively impacts the Hypertension Score.

The financial implications of transportation are another crucial factor. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fares, and medical transportation services can represent a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or limited resources. These costs can exacerbate the challenges of managing hypertension, as they may lead to reduced frequency of medical appointments or medication adherence. This financial strain further lowers the Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Bringhurst (ZIP Code 46913) is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the financial burden of transportation all contribute to a score that reflects a moderate to high level of difficulty in accessing healthcare. This is especially true for those with mobility limitations, those without access to a car, or those facing financial constraints.

For individuals considering moving to Bringhurst, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Careful consideration should be given to the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability and cost of transportation options, and the potential impact on their ability to manage their hypertension effectively. Proactive planning and consideration of these factors are crucial for ensuring continued healthcare access.

The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the challenges of healthcare access in Bringhurst. While the town offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the limitations in transportation options pose a significant hurdle for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Addressing these transportation challenges through community initiatives, partnerships with healthcare providers, and exploring innovative solutions is critical to improving healthcare access and supporting the well-being of Bringhurst residents.