47529, Elnora, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47529, Elnora, Indiana is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.50 percent of residents in 47529 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County General Hospital with a distance of 11.57 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elnora, Indiana (ZIP Code 47529)

Elnora, Indiana, a small community nestled in Daviess County, offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** is crucial. This write-up analyzes the challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 47529, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the accessibility of medical care, a vital consideration for those prioritizing their health.

The "Hypertension Score" is a composite metric evaluating the ease of reaching essential medical services. It considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Each category receives a score, ultimately contributing to an overall rating reflecting the relative ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare in Elnora. This score is particularly relevant for individuals managing chronic conditions, such as hypertension, requiring regular check-ups and potential emergency care.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary routes connecting Elnora to healthcare facilities involve navigating the local road network. The most direct route to the nearest significant hospital, Daviess Community Hospital in Washington, Indiana, typically involves traveling on County Road 1000 N and then onto US-50 W. This journey covers approximately 15 miles and usually takes around 20-25 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, adverse weather, such as snow or heavy rain, common in the region, can significantly extend this travel time.

For specialist appointments or more comprehensive care, residents often travel to larger regional centers like Evansville, Indiana. This trip necessitates using US-50 W to I-69 S, a journey of approximately 75 miles. Driving time can vary significantly, typically ranging from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Evansville. This extended travel time presents a challenge for individuals with hypertension, potentially delaying access to critical care during emergencies.

Other healthcare options, such as urgent care clinics and smaller medical practices, are available in nearby towns like Loogootee and Odon. These destinations are generally accessible via County Roads, with travel times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. While these options offer convenient access for routine care, they may not always provide the specialized services needed for managing complex health conditions.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public **transportation** options in Elnora are limited. Daviess County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for individuals who do not drive, especially the elderly or those with mobility limitations. This scarcity of public transit creates a substantial barrier to accessing healthcare, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of public transit forces residents to rely on alternative **transportation** methods. This lack of options is a significant drawback for those considering **moving to Elnora**, particularly if they are managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive. The cost of a ride to Washington or Evansville can quickly accumulate, adding a financial burden to the already existing challenges of managing a chronic illness.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available in the event of an emergency. However, the response time can be affected by the rural location and the distance to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, may be available in the area. However, their availability and cost should be carefully investigated.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility standards for public facilities and **transportation**. While specific details on ADA compliance for healthcare facilities and **transportation** options in Elnora would require further investigation, it is essential to consider this factor when assessing **healthcare access**. Individuals with mobility limitations need to ensure that medical facilities and **transportation** services are accessible to them.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies specializing in non-emergency medical **transportation**. Researching the specific services available in Elnora, including their coverage area, cost, and ADA compliance, is crucial. Contacting local healthcare providers and the Daviess County Health Department can provide valuable information about available medical transport options.

**Hypertension Score Calculation and Conclusion:**

Based on the analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for Elnora, Indiana (ZIP code 47529) would likely be considered moderate. The relatively short drive times to local healthcare providers offer some convenience. However, the limited public **transportation** options, the potential for extended travel times to specialized care, and the reliance on ride-sharing services, which are not always reliable or affordable, create significant challenges.

For individuals with hypertension, the **transportation** limitations in Elnora necessitate careful planning and consideration. The absence of readily available public transit and the potential for extended travel times to access specialized care are significant factors to weigh. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the relative difficulty of accessing healthcare should be a key consideration for anyone **moving to Elnora** or already residing there, especially if they require regular medical attention. Thoroughly researching available medical transport services and establishing a reliable plan for accessing healthcare are essential steps for managing hypertension effectively in this rural setting.