46939, Kewanna, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46939, Kewanna, Indiana is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.00 percent of residents in 46939 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pulaski Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.44 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kewanna, Indiana (ZIP Code 46939)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates consistent access to quality healthcare. This write-up delves into the intricate landscape of healthcare accessibility within Kewanna, Indiana (ZIP Code 46939), focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the available modes of travel and their associated challenges is paramount for residents, especially those newly **moving to Kewanna** or grappling with chronic conditions like high blood pressure. We will assess the **transportation** infrastructure, analyze drive times, explore public transit options, and highlight ride-share and medical transport services, ultimately providing a 'Hypertension Score' to gauge the ease with which residents can access vital medical care.

Kewanna, a charming small town nestled in Fulton County, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to **healthcare access**. The town's rural setting influences the availability of transportation options, shaping the ability of residents to reach their healthcare providers. This analysis will consider the primary routes, potential delays, and alternative solutions to determine the overall ease of reaching medical appointments. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge needed to navigate their healthcare journey effectively, allowing for proactive management of hypertension and other health concerns.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and around Kewanna are Indiana State Road 17 (SR-17) and Indiana State Road 119 (SR-119). These roads serve as the main conduits to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities. Driving times, however, are subject to various factors, including traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location of the healthcare provider.

For residents seeking medical care in Rochester, Indiana, the county seat, the journey typically involves traveling east on SR-119, then south on US-31. The drive is approximately 15-20 miles and can take anywhere from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak hours or inclement weather, this commute can be significantly extended.

Traveling to Logansport, Indiana, which offers a wider range of specialized medical services, requires a longer journey. The most direct route involves heading west on SR-17, then south on US-31. This trip is approximately 30-35 miles and can take 45 minutes to an hour, contingent on traffic and road conditions.

The quality of roads, particularly during winter months, can also impact drive times and safety. Residents should always check road conditions before embarking on a medical appointment, especially if they are driving themselves. The presence of snow, ice, or potholes can increase the risk of accidents and delay travel.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 46939 are limited. Fulton County does not currently have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to physical limitations. This situation highlights the need for alternative solutions to ensure **healthcare access** for all residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Kewanna and surrounding areas. The presence of these services depends on driver availability and demand. Residents should plan ahead and book rides in advance, especially for appointments scheduled during off-peak hours or on weekends.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility challenges, offer a crucial lifeline. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with boarding and disembarking, and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Local medical transport providers include:

* **Med-Ride:** This company specializes in non-emergency medical transportation and offers services throughout Fulton County.
* **Area Agency on Aging:** This organization may offer transportation assistance to seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The availability and cost of medical transport services can vary. Residents should contact these providers directly to inquire about eligibility, fees, and scheduling procedures. Early planning is critical to secure transportation for medical appointments.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Proximity:**

The nearest healthcare facilities to Kewanna include:

* **Woodlawn Hospital (Rochester):** A full-service hospital offering a range of medical services, including cardiology, internal medicine, and emergency care.
* **Logansport Memorial Hospital (Logansport):** A larger hospital with a broader range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgery.
* **Family Health Services of Fulton County (Rochester):** A primary care clinic providing comprehensive medical care.

The proximity of these facilities significantly impacts the overall **healthcare access** score. Residents of Kewanna have access to a range of healthcare options, but the distance to these facilities and the limited transportation options can create barriers.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors discussed, we can assign a 'Hypertension Score' to the healthcare access landscape in Kewanna, Indiana. This score reflects the ease with which residents can access medical care, specifically for the management of hypertension.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While the drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are generally manageable, they can be affected by traffic and weather conditions.
* **Public Transit:** Very Limited. The absence of a public bus system creates a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Share:** Limited. Ride-share availability may be restricted, requiring careful planning and advance booking.
* **Medical Transport:** Moderate. Medical transport services are available but may have limitations in terms of availability and cost.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** Moderate. Access to healthcare facilities is available, but the distance to these facilities can be a challenge for some residents.

Based on these factors, the overall 'Hypertension Score' for Kewanna, Indiana (ZIP Code 46939) is **Fair**. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the limitations in transportation options present significant challenges. This score underscores the importance of proactive planning, exploring alternative transportation solutions, and advocating for improved **transportation** infrastructure to enhance **healthcare access** for all residents, particularly those managing hypertension.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the 'Hypertension Score' and enhance **healthcare access** in Kewanna, several recommendations are crucial:

* **Advocate for Public Transit:** Residents should advocate for the implementation of a public transportation system, even if it's a demand-response service, to provide affordable and accessible transportation options.
* **Promote Ride-Share Availability:** Efforts should be made to encourage ride-sharing services to operate in the area, ensuring a reliable transportation alternative.
* **Expand Medical Transport Services:** Increase awareness and availability of medical transport services, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Community Partnerships:** Encourage partnerships between healthcare providers, local organizations, and transportation services to coordinate transportation assistance for patients.
* **Telehealth Adoption:** Promote the use of telehealth services to provide remote consultations, medication management, and health education, thereby reducing the need for in-person visits.

By implementing these recommendations, the community can significantly improve the 'Hypertension Score' and ensure that all residents of Kewanna have equitable access to the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension and lead healthy lives. For those **moving to Kewanna**, understanding these nuances of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is vital to their well-being.