46994, Walton, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 46994, Walton, Indiana is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.55 percent of residents in 46994 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.56 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Walton, Indiana (ZIP Code 46994)

Walton, Indiana, nestled in Cass County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing hypertension. Evaluating healthcare access requires a deep dive into the available **transportation** options, considering both time and accessibility. This "Hypertension Score" write-up analyzes the journey to essential healthcare services, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents, especially those considering **moving to Walton**.

The core of this analysis centers on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all contributing to a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility. The goal is to provide a realistic picture for individuals with hypertension, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being within the context of Walton's healthcare infrastructure.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The most common mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments in Walton is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The primary route to larger medical facilities in nearby cities like Logansport and Peru involves navigating the local road network. Residents typically utilize State Road 218, a critical artery connecting Walton to the broader region. The drive to Logansport, home to Logansport Memorial Hospital, generally takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Traveling to Peru, where Dukes Memorial Hospital is located, is also a viable option. The route typically involves State Road 218 and US-31, taking around 20-25 minutes. These drive times are crucial for individuals with hypertension, as timely access to medical care, especially in emergencies, is paramount.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times. Winter weather, with potential for snow and ice, can add considerable delays. This emphasizes the importance of being prepared with adequate time and considering the potential for unexpected disruptions when planning healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit Realities:**

Public transit options in Walton and the surrounding areas are limited. Cass County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The lack of robust public **transportation** presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to personal vehicles, including those with mobility limitations.

While specific bus routes are not available, the county may offer demand-response services, such as the Cass County Council on Aging, which provides transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, posing a challenge for spontaneous medical needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration. For any available public transit options, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility devices is essential. Information regarding ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, should be readily available to potential users.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability can vary. The presence of these services offers an alternative **transportation** option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Companies like MedTrans or similar local providers may offer such services. The cost, coverage, and availability of these services should be carefully investigated.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for Moving to Walton:**

For individuals with hypertension, **healthcare access** is a critical factor in their quality of life. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical providers, pharmacies, and specialists is essential for managing their condition. When considering **moving to Walton**, prospective residents with hypertension should carefully evaluate the **transportation** options and their potential impact on their healthcare needs.

The availability of primary care physicians, cardiologists, and other specialists in the immediate vicinity is another crucial aspect. While Logansport and Peru offer a wider range of medical services, the travel time and **transportation** costs should be factored into the overall assessment.

Access to pharmacies for medication refills is also essential. Walton has local pharmacies, but the ability to access a pharmacy quickly, regardless of the chosen **transportation** method, is vital.

**Hypertension Score Components:**

To create a "Hypertension Score" for Walton, several factors must be considered:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities:** This is the most critical factor, with shorter drive times receiving higher scores.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence of reliable and accessible public transit options, even if limited, improves the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The availability and affordability of these services contribute positively to the score.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** Easy access to pharmacies for medication refills is essential.
* **Access to Specialists:** The availability of cardiologists and other specialists within a reasonable distance impacts the score.
* **Road Conditions and Weather:** The impact of weather and road conditions on drive times should be considered.

**Scoring Methodology:**

Each component of the "Hypertension Score" would be assigned a numerical value based on its impact on healthcare access. For example, drive times could be scored as follows:

* Under 15 minutes: 5 points
* 15-30 minutes: 3 points
* 30-45 minutes: 1 point
* Over 45 minutes: 0 points

Similar scoring systems would be applied to the other components. The total score would then provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility in Walton.

**Conclusion:**

Walton, Indiana, presents a mixed picture for individuals managing hypertension. While the proximity to Logansport and Peru offers access to comprehensive medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but their cost and reliability should be carefully considered.

For those considering **moving to Walton**, a thorough evaluation of their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. The "Hypertension Score," based on the factors outlined above, can serve as a valuable tool for making informed decisions. By understanding the nuances of **healthcare access** in Walton, individuals with hypertension can proactively manage their health and ensure their well-being within this community.