47406, Bloomington, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47406, Bloomington, Indiana is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.36 percent of residents in 47406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital with a distance of 2.12 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47406**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension, is a critical consideration when evaluating a new residence. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 47406 (Bloomington, Indiana), provides a "Hypertension Score" that assesses the ease of transportation to essential healthcare services, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport availability. This score helps prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Bloomington, understand the practicality of maintaining their health regimen.

The score is not a definitive measure but a comparative tool, highlighting the relative accessibility of healthcare within the specified geographic area. It considers the diverse transportation landscape and the potential challenges faced by individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments and timely access to care.

The heart of the analysis lies in understanding the transportation infrastructure. In Bloomington, driving remains a primary mode of transportation. The primary arteries are State Road 37, which transforms into I-69, and the east-west corridors of State Road 46 and State Road 45. These highways and roads are crucial for reaching hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices.

Drive times are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. The distance to the major healthcare providers, such as Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital, can vary considerably. A drive from the western edge of 47406 to the hospital, located near downtown, can take as little as 10 minutes in off-peak hours, utilizing State Road 46 and then South Walnut Street. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, demanding careful planning for appointments.

Public transportation, managed by Bloomington Transit, offers an alternative. Several bus routes serve the 47406 ZIP code. Route 3, Route 6, and Route 9 are particularly relevant, providing access to the hospital and various medical facilities. The ADA-accessible features of these buses, including ramps and designated seating, are essential for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that can be associated with hypertension. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. Their availability is generally good within Bloomington, offering on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services during inclement weather or peak demand periods should be considered.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are also available. These services, often provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local private providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation. They are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit due to their health condition. However, these services require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

The "Hypertension Score" considers these factors, assigning weights to each mode of transportation based on its accessibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ever-changing transportation landscape.

When assessing the "Hypertension Score," it's crucial to consider the location within the 47406 ZIP code. Residents closer to the hospital and major bus routes will naturally have a higher score. The availability of sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure also plays a role, particularly for those who may incorporate walking into their daily routine.

Furthermore, the presence of pharmacies and medical supply stores within easy reach is essential. Access to these resources is critical for managing hypertension, ensuring that medications and necessary supplies are readily available. The proximity of grocery stores with healthy food options also contributes to the overall score, as diet plays a significant role in hypertension management.

For individuals considering moving to Bloomington, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool. It allows for a more informed decision-making process, considering the practicalities of accessing healthcare. It encourages prospective residents to evaluate their individual needs and preferences, considering factors such as their mobility, financial resources, and reliance on others for transportation.

The score also highlights areas where improvements are needed. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of public transit, particularly during off-peak hours, would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Promoting ride-sharing partnerships with healthcare providers could help reduce transportation costs.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic assessment that underscores the importance of transportation in healthcare access. It is a critical consideration for individuals managing hypertension, ensuring they can readily access the care they need to maintain their health and well-being, particularly for those contemplating moving to Bloomington. The score is a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ease with which individuals can reach them.