47104, Bethlehem, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47104, Bethlehem, Indiana is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 47104 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellstone Regional Hospital with a distance of 21.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 47104

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates reliable healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within ZIP code 47104, focusing on how residents can reach essential medical services, including those crucial for hypertension management. Understanding the available transportation options is vital, especially for individuals considering moving to Bethlehem, Indiana, within this area. We will assess the drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" perspective.

The primary challenge in 47104 is its rural character. This impacts transportation infrastructure and consequently, healthcare access. The area's layout necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. The main arteries for travel are State Road 62, running east-west, and State Road 135, traversing north-south. These roads, though generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to medical appointments and pharmacies.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the specific location within 47104 and the destination. The closest hospitals and clinics are in nearby towns like Paoli and Salem. A trip to Paoli via State Road 62 typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Traveling to Salem, primarily via State Road 135, might take a similar amount of time, maybe a little longer. These times are crucial for those managing hypertension, as timely access to medication refills and routine check-ups is paramount.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. The availability of buses is sparse. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides some services, but routes and schedules might not perfectly align with healthcare appointments. Furthermore, ADA accessibility, while mandated, can be variable in older vehicles or less frequently used routes. This severely limits healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or have mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 47104, but their reliability and cost can be significant factors. The availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The expense of these services can quickly accumulate, making frequent trips to the doctor financially burdensome. For those managing hypertension, this financial strain could lead to missed appointments or medication non-adherence, directly impacting their health.

Medical transportation services offer a dedicated solution for those needing assistance. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These are particularly helpful for individuals with limited mobility or those who do not have access to personal vehicles. However, availability and cost can vary. It's essential to research and pre-arrange transportation well in advance of appointments.

Several medical transport brands serve this area. Angel Medical Transport, for example, offers non-emergency medical transportation. Other local companies may also provide similar services. It is crucial to research and compare pricing, availability, and the types of services offered. This may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient needs.

The "Hypertension Score" for 47104 reflects the challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The score is impacted by several factors, including the availability of transportation options, drive times to medical facilities, and the reliability and cost of these options. The score also considers the needs of individuals managing hypertension, who require consistent access to medical care and medication.

Individuals moving to Bethlehem, Indiana, within 47104, should carefully consider these factors. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities or easy access to reliable transportation is essential. Researching local healthcare providers and transportation options before relocating is highly recommended. This includes contacting local hospitals and clinics to inquire about their transportation assistance programs.

The "Hypertension Score" for 47104 is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment. The score can fluctuate based on changes in transportation infrastructure, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the emergence of new medical transport providers. Therefore, residents should continuously monitor the transportation landscape and proactively seek solutions to ensure consistent access to healthcare.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 47104 is moderate. While the area offers access to essential medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges. Ride-sharing services can be unreliable and expensive, and medical transportation services may require advanced planning. Individuals managing hypertension must proactively navigate these challenges to ensure they receive the care they need.

The key to improving the "Hypertension Score" lies in community collaboration and proactive planning. This includes advocating for improved public transportation, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services, and promoting awareness of medical transportation options. It also involves individual responsibility, such as planning appointments in advance, utilizing telehealth services when possible, and exploring all available transportation resources.

For those considering moving to Bethlehem, Indiana, within 47104, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. This includes evaluating the distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of personal vehicles, and the availability and cost of alternative transportation services. By proactively addressing these factors, individuals can enhance their "Hypertension Score" and ensure they receive the healthcare they need to manage their condition effectively.

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is multifaceted. It is not solely determined by the availability of medical facilities but also by the ease with which individuals can reach those facilities. In 47104, where transportation is a critical factor, understanding the landscape and proactively seeking solutions is essential for managing hypertension and promoting overall well-being.