47114, Crandall, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47114, Crandall, Indiana is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.58 percent of residents in 47114 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Harrison County Hospital with a distance of 4.22 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crandall, Indiana (ZIP Code 47114)

Crandall, Indiana, a tranquil locale nestled within the rolling hills of Harrison County, offers a slower pace of life, a welcome change for many seeking respite from the urban sprawl. However, the very charm of this rural setting presents unique challenges, particularly when it comes to healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 47114, focusing on its impact on individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention and medication adherence. We aim to assess the ease with which residents can reach vital healthcare services, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflective of the area's accessibility.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Crandall is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for navigating the region are State Road 64, a critical east-west thoroughfare, and State Road 135, providing a north-south connection. Traveling to the nearest hospitals and specialty clinics often involves navigating these roadways.

For those residing in the heart of Crandall, a trip to Harrison County Hospital in Corydon, approximately 10 miles away, typically entails a drive of around 15-20 minutes via State Road 64. This drive, while manageable, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours. Further afield, the University of Louisville Health – Shelbyville Hospital, located roughly 30 miles away, offers specialized cardiac care. The journey, primarily via I-64 West and then US-60 West, can take approximately 45-60 minutes, dependent on traffic and road conditions.

Healthcare access is more than just physical proximity; it also encompasses the availability of alternative transportation options. Public transit, a crucial element for many, is unfortunately limited in this rural setting. The transit system, while not directly serving Crandall, offers a vital link to healthcare access. The TARC (Transit Authority of River City) operates in Louisville, Kentucky, providing access to specialized medical centers.

However, the lack of direct public transit within Crandall necessitates a multi-modal approach. Residents might need to drive to a park-and-ride location or coordinate with a friend or family member to reach the TARC network. The closest TARC routes would be in Louisville, Kentucky, and would require a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes. While the TARC system is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the initial transportation to the TARC network remains a significant hurdle for residents of Crandall.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability in Crandall is variable. While ride-sharing services are available in the Louisville metro area, their presence in Crandall is less consistent, especially during off-peak hours or in the more remote areas of the ZIP code. This uncertainty poses a challenge for individuals with hypertension who require prompt access to medical care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another vital component of the healthcare access equation. Several companies operate in the region, including First Medical Transportation and American Medical Response (AMR). These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, their availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required, potentially limiting their responsiveness in urgent situations.

The cost of transportation is an often-overlooked factor in healthcare access. The price of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and the potential for parking fees at medical facilities all contribute to the financial burden of accessing healthcare. This financial strain can be particularly challenging for individuals with hypertension, who may already be struggling with the costs of medication and other medical expenses.

Moving to Crandall, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension, in particular, should assess the availability of transportation options and the potential travel times to medical facilities. Planning for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergencies requires a proactive approach.

The "Hypertension Score" for Crandall (ZIP code 47114) is influenced by the following factors: the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the need for medical transportation services. The distance to hospitals and specialty clinics, the potential for traffic delays, and the associated costs of transportation all play a role in determining the overall score.

To improve the "Hypertension Score," several strategies could be implemented. Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services, particularly for medical appointments, would be beneficial. Exploring the feasibility of a demand-response public transit system, tailored to the needs of rural communities, could also significantly enhance healthcare access. Furthermore, advocating for increased funding for medical transportation services and promoting awareness of available resources would provide critical support for individuals with hypertension.

In conclusion, while Crandall offers a desirable quality of life, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. Individuals with hypertension require a comprehensive understanding of the available options and a proactive approach to managing their healthcare needs. By acknowledging the limitations and actively pursuing solutions, the community can work towards improving the "Hypertension Score" and ensuring that all residents have access to the vital care they need.