47010, Bath, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47010, Bath, Indiana is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 47010 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Richmond State Hospital with a distance of 23.88 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 47010

Understanding the challenges of healthcare access is crucial, especially when considering a move. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 47010 (Bath, Indiana), providing a "Hypertension Score" to assess the ease with which residents can access medical care for hypertension, a prevalent condition. This score considers various transportation options, their associated drive times, and the overall accessibility of healthcare facilities. We'll delve into the realities of moving to Bath, Indiana, and what it means for managing your health.

The "Hypertension Score" is a composite metric. It weighs factors like drive times to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, the availability and efficiency of public transportation, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score will also consider the physical accessibility of these services, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score signals potential challenges.

The primary determinant of the score is drive time. In 47010, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. Residents typically utilize **US-52** and **IN-121** for travel. A typical drive to the nearest primary care physician in Connersville, approximately 10-15 miles away, takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often requires a longer commute, potentially extending to Richmond (approximately 30-40 minutes via **US-40**) or even Indianapolis (a significant 1.5-2 hour drive via **I-70**).

Public transportation options are limited. The primary provider is the Southeastern Indiana Transportation (SITE). SITE offers fixed-route services, but these are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting the larger towns. The routes available to Bath residents are not specifically listed, but the service is generally available to residents of the county. The frequency and route coverage may not be ideal for routine medical appointments, especially for those requiring regular check-ups or medication refills. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of SITE vehicles is a critical consideration, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, due to the rural nature of the area, waiting times and the number of transfers needed can be a barrier to access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in more urban environments. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. Medical transport services are also available, but their cost can be a significant factor, especially for those with limited financial resources. The specific brands and their coverage area in 47010 need to be investigated.

Pharmacies are another critical element. Residents of Bath have access to local pharmacies in Connersville. Drive times to these pharmacies are similar to those for primary care physicians. The availability of medication refills and the convenience of pharmacy services are essential components of hypertension management.

The "Hypertension Score" for 47010, therefore, reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the drive times to primary care are relatively manageable, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the longer commutes to specialized care and pharmacies contribute to a moderate score. This score highlights the need for careful planning and consideration when moving to Bath, especially for individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions.

For those considering moving to Bath, Indiana, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Individuals with hypertension need to factor in the time and effort required to attend medical appointments, obtain medications, and access specialized care. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning for routine check-ups, medication refills, and emergency situations.

The lack of readily available public transit makes it difficult for those who cannot drive. This lack of access can be a barrier to healthcare access, especially for the elderly or those with disabilities. The presence of ride-sharing services offers some flexibility, but their reliability is not always guaranteed.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't just a number; it's a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It underscores the importance of proactive healthcare management, including establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, understanding medication schedules, and planning transportation in advance.

The score also highlights the need for community support. Neighborly assistance, family involvement, and local initiatives to improve transportation options can significantly improve healthcare access for residents of 47010.

The challenges of healthcare access in 47010 are not insurmountable. However, they require careful consideration, proactive planning, and a willingness to adapt to the realities of rural living. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of healthcare access and the need for a comprehensive approach to managing chronic conditions in this community.