The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47537, Gentryville, Indiana is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
46.95 percent of residents in 47537 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.76 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 47537, Gentryville, Indiana
Hypertension Score | 78 |
---|---|
People Score | 91 |
Provider Score | 49 |
Hospital Score | 66 |
Travel Score | 28 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 47537 | Gentryville | Indiana |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.65 |
1 Car | 31.00 | 31.00 | 18.52 |
2 Cars | 25.33 | 25.33 | 41.91 |
3 or More Cars | 43.67 | 43.67 | 36.91 |
Vehicular Access in 47537, Gentryville, Indiana
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gentryville (ZIP Code 47537)
The heart of Gentryville, Indiana, beats with the quiet rhythm of a rural community. But beneath the surface of this tranquil setting lies a critical concern: healthcare access, especially for those managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within ZIP code 47537, assessing its impact on the ability of residents to reach essential medical services, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of obtaining timely care. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Gentryville, offering a crucial lens through which to view their future healthcare journey.
Our focus, hypertension, is a silent killer, often requiring regular monitoring and medication. Effective management hinges on consistent access to physicians, pharmacies, and diagnostic facilities. In a rural area like Gentryville, transportation becomes a pivotal factor determining the quality of life and health outcomes.
**Driving Directions: The Asphalt Arteries**
The primary mode of transportation in Gentryville is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. This reliance on cars dictates the success of healthcare access. The major thoroughfare is State Road 62, a vital east-west artery. Traveling east on SR 62, residents can reach the larger towns of Tell City and Dale, both offering medical facilities. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, contingent on traffic and weather.
Heading south, State Road 245 provides access to the Ohio River and the surrounding area. This route is less direct to healthcare, but it is a scenic drive.
Further east, State Road 162 provides another route, but it is also limited in healthcare options.
The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Potholes, ice, and snow can make journeys treacherous, potentially delaying or preventing access to critical medical appointments.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in Gentryville are extremely limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive bus system. This absence poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals with low incomes.
The absence of public transit reinforces the importance of personal vehicles and the potential barriers to healthcare access for those who cannot drive.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader area, but their presence in Gentryville itself is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is typically lower in rural areas. This can lead to longer wait times and higher fares, making ride-sharing an unreliable and potentially expensive option for regular medical appointments.
Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. However, these services often require advanced booking and can be costly. The specific medical transport brands operating in the area, and their pricing, are vital considerations for anyone relying on this form of transportation. Researching local providers is crucial.
**Pharmacies and Healthcare Facilities: The Destination**
The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance is crucial. The nearest hospitals and larger medical centers are located in Tell City and Dale. These facilities offer a range of services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency care. Pharmacies are also present in these towns.
The distance to these facilities and the reliability of transportation are key factors influencing healthcare access. The longer the travel time, the greater the potential for delays and missed appointments.
**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**
For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of both transportation and healthcare facilities is paramount. Ensuring that public transit, when available, is ADA-compliant is a critical requirement. This includes features such as ramps, lifts, and accessible seating. Similarly, medical facilities must adhere to ADA standards, providing accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms.
**Hypertension Score: An Assessment**
Based on the analysis above, the Hypertension Score for Gentryville (ZIP Code 47537) is moderate, leaning towards challenging. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access.
The score is tempered by the availability of healthcare facilities and pharmacies within a reasonable driving distance. However, the absence of robust transportation alternatives necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare management.
**Recommendations for Residents:**
* **Prioritize vehicle maintenance:** Ensure your vehicle is in good working order to avoid breakdowns and delays.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in travel time, considering potential traffic and weather conditions.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Research and identify local medical transport providers and understand their services and costs.
* **Consider telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication refills to reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Advocate for improved transportation:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transportation options in the area.
* **Coordinate with neighbors:** Explore the possibility of carpooling with neighbors or friends to share transportation costs and reduce isolation.
* **Communicate with your healthcare provider:** Discuss transportation challenges with your doctor and explore alternative solutions, such as home health visits.
**Conclusion: Moving to Gentryville with Hypertension**
For individuals considering moving to Gentryville and managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. While the community offers a peaceful setting, the healthcare access is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. Proactive planning, exploring available resources, and advocating for improved transportation options can help mitigate the challenges and ensure effective hypertension management. The Hypertension Score serves as a reminder that in rural settings, healthcare access is inextricably linked to the ability to navigate the roads and secure reliable transportation.
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