47116, Eckerty, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47116, Eckerty, Indiana is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.67 percent of residents in 47116 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Paoli Hospital with a distance of 17.09 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Eckerty, Indiana (ZIP Code 47116)

The quiet beauty of Eckerty, Indiana, nestled in the heart of the Hoosier National Forest, offers a serene escape. However, for residents managing hypertension, the tranquility can be disrupted by the complexities of healthcare access. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 47116, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to determine the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care. This is crucial for individuals requiring consistent monitoring and medication management, as timely access directly impacts health outcomes.

The primary concern for Eckerty residents is the geographical isolation. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities, demanding reliance on personal vehicles. Driving times are significantly influenced by the winding rural roads and the limited highway infrastructure.

The journey to Corydon, Indiana, approximately 20 miles southeast, is a common destination for medical appointments. This route typically involves navigating the scenic but often slow-moving **Indiana State Road 64** East. Expect a drive time of roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey necessitates a reliable vehicle and the ability to drive, which can pose challenges for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

Another important route is toward French Lick, Indiana, about 25 miles northwest. This drive often utilizes **Indiana State Road 145** North. This route also has limited passing zones, adding to the travel time, potentially extending the journey to approximately 40 to 55 minutes. Again, vehicle dependency is the norm.

Moving further afield, accessing larger hospitals and specialist care in Louisville, Kentucky, about 70 miles south, is a significant undertaking. This trip typically involves taking **Indiana State Road 64** East to **Interstate 64** East. The drive time can easily exceed an hour and a half, especially during peak traffic hours. This long commute significantly increases the burden on individuals managing hypertension, requiring careful planning and potentially impacting adherence to medical appointments.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in Eckerty. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This is a critical factor in evaluating the Hypertension Score, as it highlights a vulnerability for specific demographic groups.

There are no fixed-route bus services that serve Eckerty directly. The closest public transportation options are in neighboring towns, such as Corydon, which may offer limited demand-response services. However, these services are often restricted, require advance booking, and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. The lack of ADA-accessible features on available transportation is a further concern for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Eckerty are questionable. The rural location and limited population density make it challenging for these services to maintain a consistent presence. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options further compounds the transportation challenges, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are an option, but their availability and cost can vary. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding the types of appointments they cover. The availability of NEMT services is a critical component in assessing the Hypertension Score, as they offer a potential lifeline for those who cannot drive.

The lack of readily available transportation options significantly impacts the ability of Eckerty residents to manage their hypertension effectively. The long drive times, limited public transit, and unreliable ride-sharing services create significant barriers to accessing timely medical care.

The implications of these transportation challenges extend beyond simply getting to appointments. They can impact medication adherence, as residents may face difficulties in picking up prescriptions. They can also affect the ability to attend follow-up appointments, which are crucial for monitoring blood pressure and adjusting treatment plans. The lack of access can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can further exacerbate hypertension.

The Hypertension Score for Eckerty, Indiana (ZIP Code 47116) reflects the significant transportation barriers to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the unreliable ride-sharing services create a challenging environment for residents managing hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Eckerty, Indiana, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, careful consideration of these transportation challenges is essential. Understanding the limitations of the current transportation infrastructure is crucial for planning and ensuring access to essential medical care.

The development of strategies to improve healthcare access is vital for the well-being of Eckerty residents. This may include exploring partnerships with local organizations to provide transportation assistance, advocating for improved public transit options, and promoting the availability of ride-sharing services.

The challenges of transportation in Eckerty highlight the need for a holistic approach to healthcare access. This includes addressing not only the physical barriers to reaching healthcare facilities but also the social and economic factors that impact health outcomes. By addressing these challenges, Eckerty can strive to create a healthier and more equitable community for all its residents. The ability to readily access healthcare is paramount to living a healthy life, and the current situation in Eckerty calls for innovative solutions to improve the Hypertension Score and the overall health of the community.