47523, Dale, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47523, Dale, Indiana is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.50 percent of residents in 47523 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 16.29 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47523**

The heart of Dubois County, Dale, Indiana, nestled within ZIP code 47523, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score," considers the critical factor of transportation, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services. Transportation, the lifeblood of healthcare access, is a crucial element in the well-being of a community. The ability to reach a doctor, pharmacy, or specialist directly impacts a patient's ability to manage their condition.

The primary focus is on commute times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. These elements, woven together, paint a picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents of 47523 seeking care. The score reflects the overall accessibility, aiming to provide insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, especially those considering moving to Dale.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in Dale. The most direct route to healthcare facilities from Dale involves navigating the local roads and highways. For example, the drive to Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center in Jasper, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey primarily involves using State Road 64, a vital east-west artery, and then maneuvering through Jasper's city streets.

Further afield, the drive to Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, a more specialized facility, takes around an hour and fifteen minutes. This route involves taking US-231 North, merging onto Interstate 64 West, and then exiting onto the Lloyd Expressway. The return trip, equally critical, should be factored into the overall assessment. The condition of these roads, and the potential for seasonal weather-related delays, also contribute to the score.

Public transit options are limited in 47523. Dubois County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. This absence impacts the Hypertension Score negatively, particularly for those who may find driving difficult or impossible.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the county does offer a demand-response service. This service, often requiring advance booking, provides transportation for medical appointments and other essential needs. However, the availability and scheduling of this service can be a significant barrier for some. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of this service is critical, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be sporadic, particularly in rural areas like Dale. The reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is a crucial consideration. The cost of ride-shares can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes. The Hypertension Score must account for the potential costs and availability fluctuations.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, are essential for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially for non-emergency appointments.

The availability of pharmacies is another crucial factor. Dale has local pharmacies, offering convenient access to medications and other healthcare products. These pharmacies are easily accessible by car, further enhancing the overall score. The ability to quickly and easily obtain medications is a vital component of hypertension management.

The Hypertension Score for 47523, therefore, is influenced by a combination of factors. The relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities in Jasper are a positive factor. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-share services are negative factors. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and potential limitations of these services must be considered.

The score also considers the availability of local pharmacies and the convenience of accessing medications. The overall score reflects the balance between these positive and negative factors. For residents of 47523 managing hypertension, this score provides a valuable understanding of the challenges and opportunities they face in accessing healthcare.

For those considering moving to Dale, the Hypertension Score is a crucial element to consider. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension, or those at risk, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and the potential challenges they may face.

The score is not static; it is dynamic. The availability of transportation services, the development of new healthcare facilities, and changes in local infrastructure can all impact the score over time. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to ensure the score remains relevant and accurate.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for 47523 reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. While the community benefits from relatively short drive times to local healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges of ride-share availability create barriers for some residents. The availability of medical transport services provides a vital safety net, but the cost and potential limitations must be considered. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support the well-being of the community.