46922, Delong, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46922, Delong, Indiana is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 46922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pulaski Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.33 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 46922

The health of a community hinges on more than just the presence of medical facilities; it’s intricately woven with the ease with which residents can access those facilities. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 46922, focusing on its impact on healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. We'll assess the challenges and opportunities faced by residents, painting a picture of their daily journeys to receive crucial medical care. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Delong, as it highlights the realities of living in this area.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension in 46922 is the timely and reliable access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. Transportation becomes a critical factor, influencing adherence to treatment plans and overall health outcomes. This is where the concept of a "Hypertension Score" comes into play. It is a composite measure of transportation options, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. A higher score indicates better access, potentially leading to improved health management.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those who drive, the primary routes to healthcare in 46922 are dictated by the existing road network. The most direct route to larger healthcare facilities often involves navigating Indiana State Road 17, which can be a relatively straightforward journey. However, the length of this route is dependent on the specific destination and the time of day. Rush hour, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times, can significantly extend travel times.

Another key road is US-31, a major north-south artery that provides access to larger cities like Logansport and Rochester, where more specialized medical services are available. Drive times to these locations can vary considerably, ranging from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location of the medical facility. Navigating these roads requires careful planning, especially for those with hypertension who may need to schedule appointments around their medication schedules and potential health concerns.

Smaller county roads, such as 100N and 200E, offer alternative routes, but they may be less well-maintained and can add to travel time. These roads are especially important for residents living in more rural areas within the ZIP code. The availability of a reliable vehicle is thus essential for many residents, emphasizing the potential challenges for those with limited mobility or financial resources.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 46922 are, unfortunately, limited. This presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The lack of a robust public transit system can lead to missed appointments, delayed medication refills, and increased reliance on others for transportation.

There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve the Delong area. This absence forces residents to rely on alternative modes of transportation, such as ride-sharing services or private arrangements. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring potential solutions to improve transportation access for vulnerable populations.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, including those who may experience mobility limitations due to hypertension-related complications, the availability of accessible transportation is paramount. The absence of public transit and the limited availability of accessible ride-sharing options can create significant challenges.

The lack of ADA-compliant transportation options can lead to social isolation and reduced access to healthcare. This is a critical consideration for those considering moving to Delong, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health conditions effectively.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential solution for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services in 46922 is a crucial aspect of the Hypertension Score, as it directly impacts the ability of individuals with hypertension to access necessary medical care.

**Brands and Options: A Detailed View**

While specific brands and services may fluctuate, it's essential to identify the current players in the transportation landscape. Investigating local ride-sharing availability (Uber, Lyft) and medical transport providers (e.g., local ambulance services, specialized medical transport companies) is crucial. Contacting these providers to understand their service areas, pricing, and ADA-compliant vehicle availability is a necessary step in assessing the transportation options.

**The Impact on the Hypertension Score**

The combination of limited public transit, variable ride-sharing availability, and the reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts the Hypertension Score for 46922. This score reflects the challenges residents face in accessing healthcare, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The score would likely be lower than in areas with more robust transportation infrastructure. This underscores the importance of considering transportation access when evaluating healthcare access in this ZIP code.

**Recommendations: Improving Healthcare Access**

Several strategies can be implemented to improve healthcare access for residents of 46922. These include:

* **Advocating for improved public transit:** Exploring the feasibility of establishing or expanding public transportation routes that serve Delong and surrounding areas.
* **Promoting ride-sharing partnerships:** Working with ride-sharing companies to ensure service availability and affordability for residents.
* **Supporting medical transport services:** Encouraging the availability and accessibility of medical transport services, including ADA-compliant vehicles.
* **Facilitating community-based transportation programs:** Exploring the potential for volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives to assist residents with transportation needs.
* **Telehealth integration:** Promoting the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and medication management.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The transportation landscape in 46922 presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. By understanding the existing transportation infrastructure, identifying the gaps in service, and advocating for improvements, we can work towards ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Delong, as it provides a realistic view of the transportation challenges and the need for proactive solutions. Improving the Hypertension Score in this area requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and residents themselves.