46990, Urbana, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46990, Urbana, Indiana is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.24 percent of residents in 46990 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Wabash Hospital, Inc with a distance of 5.57 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Urbana, IN (ZIP Code 46990)

The pursuit of optimal health, especially for individuals managing hypertension, demands reliable access to healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape of Urbana, Indiana (ZIP Code 46990), assessing its impact on healthcare access for those living with or at risk of high blood pressure. Understanding the practicalities of getting to appointments, pharmacies, and specialized care is crucial for managing this chronic condition. We will explore the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to determine a "Hypertension Score" reflective of the ease or difficulty of accessing vital healthcare resources. This information is especially valuable for individuals considering moving to Urbana, IN, and seeking a community conducive to their health needs.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in Urbana stems from its rural character. The town is nestled within Wabash County, a region characterized by expansive farmland and limited public transportation infrastructure. This landscape significantly influences the ease with which residents can reach healthcare facilities. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation. Residents of Urbana rely heavily on their cars to navigate the area. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities in neighboring towns like Wabash and Peru involve driving on **State Road 13** and **U.S. Route 24**. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours or inclement weather. For example, a trip to Wabash, where Wabash County Hospital is located, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via SR 13. Similarly, a drive to Peru, where Dukes Memorial Hospital is located, is roughly a 25-30 minute drive via US 24.

The availability of public transit is limited. Wabash County does not currently have a comprehensive public transportation system. This lack of public transit poses a significant hurdle for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to age or disability, or who prefer not to drive. This absence is a major factor in determining the "Hypertension Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. The availability of drivers may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for individuals on a fixed income or those who require frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services, such as private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transportation providers, offer transportation to and from medical appointments. While these services are available in the area, they often come with a higher cost compared to other transportation options.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Urbana itself is limited. Residents typically need to travel to neighboring towns for comprehensive medical care. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The distance to healthcare facilities and the availability of transportation directly impact the ability of individuals with hypertension to manage their condition effectively.

The "Hypertension Score" for Urbana, IN (ZIP Code 46990) is therefore influenced by the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport. This score reflects the potential challenges faced by individuals with hypertension in accessing necessary healthcare services.

The "Hypertension Score" is negatively impacted by the lack of readily available public transit. The absence of a robust public transportation system limits the options for those who cannot or choose not to drive. The reliance on personal vehicles increases the burden on individuals who may face financial constraints, mobility limitations, or other challenges.

The score is further affected by the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services. While ride-sharing can provide a convenient alternative to driving, the potential for limited driver availability and fluctuating prices can create uncertainty and financial strain.

Medical transport services, while essential for individuals with specific needs, often come with a higher price tag. This can present a financial barrier for some residents, impacting their ability to access healthcare regularly.

The distance to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns also contributes to the score. The need to travel outside of Urbana for comprehensive medical care increases the time and effort required to access healthcare services. This factor highlights the importance of considering transportation options and planning for potential delays.

Considering all these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Urbana, IN (ZIP Code 46990) is moderate. While personal vehicles provide the primary mode of transportation, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport create challenges for some residents. This score emphasizes the importance of careful planning, resourcefulness, and potentially seeking support from family, friends, or community organizations to ensure consistent access to healthcare.

For individuals considering moving to Urbana, IN, and managing hypertension, it is essential to factor in the transportation landscape. Understanding the available options and potential challenges is crucial for making an informed decision. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, explore the availability of ride-sharing services, and investigate medical transport options.

Furthermore, individuals should familiarize themselves with the location of healthcare facilities in neighboring towns, such as Wabash and Peru. Understanding the drive times and potential traffic patterns is important for planning appointments and managing medications.

Connecting with local community resources can also be beneficial. Local organizations may offer assistance with transportation or provide information about available healthcare services. Building a support network of family, friends, or caregivers can further enhance access to healthcare.

In conclusion, while Urbana, IN, offers a peaceful and rural environment, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for careful planning, resourcefulness, and potentially seeking support to ensure consistent access to healthcare. This assessment underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor when evaluating the suitability of a community for individuals with specific healthcare needs. The availability of healthcare access directly influences the quality of life for residents.