47542, Huntingburg, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47542, Huntingburg, Indiana is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.15 percent of residents in 47542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 6.76 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47542**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for residents managing hypertension, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 47542, encompassing Huntingburg, Indiana, and evaluates the accessibility of medical facilities, crucial for effective hypertension management. The “Hypertension Score” considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, all essential components of a patient’s ability to receive timely and consistent care. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Huntingburg and seeking to understand their healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Huntingburg is the ability to reach medical providers. For many residents, this translates to the convenience of personal vehicles. Drive times to key healthcare facilities form a critical part of the Hypertension Score. Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center in Jasper, a significant regional provider, lies approximately 10 miles east of Huntingburg. The drive, primarily via Indiana State Road 64, typically takes 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This relatively short commute contributes positively to the score, offering reasonable access for regular check-ups and emergency care.

Another important destination is the Lange-Fuhs Cancer Center, also in Jasper, which provides specialized care. Reaching this facility from Huntingburg follows a similar route, predominantly along Indiana State Road 64, with a drive time comparable to that of Memorial Hospital. The accessibility of this specialized care center is vital for individuals requiring oncology services and impacts the overall Hypertension Score.

For residents seeking more specialized care or access to a wider range of specialists, travel to Evansville, Indiana, approximately 60 miles southwest of Huntingburg, becomes necessary. The primary route involves Interstate 64 West, a major thoroughfare, and typically takes around an hour. While this drive is significantly longer, the availability of comprehensive medical services in Evansville, including hospitals like Deaconess and St. Vincent, is a crucial factor in the overall healthcare access picture. The Hypertension Score must account for the increased travel time and its potential impact on patient compliance with treatment regimens.

Public transportation options in Huntingburg and the surrounding area are limited. Dubois County, including Huntingburg, does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This scarcity of public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to health limitations. The absence of readily available public transportation poses a challenge for those relying on alternative modes of transport to reach their medical appointments.

The absence of a robust public transit system places a greater reliance on alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Huntingburg area, though their availability may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Ride-sharing can offer a convenient solution for individuals who need occasional transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost and availability of these services can be a barrier, particularly for low-income individuals or those with frequent appointments. The Hypertension Score must consider the potential financial burden and availability challenges associated with ride-sharing.

Medical transportation services play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several medical transportation providers operate in the Huntingburg area, offering services such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive themselves and require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. The availability and cost of these services directly impact the Hypertension Score, as they provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility challenges.

When considering medical transport, it is essential to investigate the specific providers available in the area. For instance, companies like American Medical Response (AMR) provide ambulance services, while other providers may offer NEMT services for non-emergency transportation. Researching these providers, including their service areas, costs, and availability, is crucial for assessing the healthcare access landscape.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is a critical aspect of the Hypertension Score. For individuals with disabilities, accessible transportation is essential for ensuring equal access to healthcare. While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability cannot be guaranteed. Medical transportation providers are typically equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but it is essential to confirm their ADA compliance when arranging transportation.

The overall Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 47542 reflects a mixed picture. The relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities in Jasper contribute positively to the score. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services present significant hurdles. Individuals considering moving to Huntingburg must carefully weigh these factors when assessing their healthcare access.

The availability of healthcare access is a dynamic landscape, influenced by factors beyond the immediate transportation options. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within the area also plays a crucial role. The Hypertension Score must consider the proximity of these essential services and their impact on patient convenience and compliance with treatment plans.

The availability of pharmacies is particularly important for hypertension management. Residents must be able to easily access their medications, which requires a nearby pharmacy or a reliable delivery service. The presence of local pharmacies and the availability of prescription delivery services contribute positively to the Hypertension Score.

The cost of healthcare, including transportation, is another critical factor. The affordability of medical services, including doctor visits, medications, and transportation, directly impacts the ability of individuals to manage their hypertension effectively. The Hypertension Score must consider the financial burden associated with healthcare access and its potential impact on patient well-being.

The quality of healthcare services available in the area is another critical aspect. The Hypertension Score must consider the quality of care provided by local healthcare providers, including their expertise, experience, and commitment to patient care. Access to high-quality healthcare services is essential for effective hypertension management.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 47542 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the drive times to local healthcare facilities are relatively short, the limited public transportation options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services present significant barriers. Individuals considering moving to Huntingburg must carefully evaluate these factors, along with the availability of pharmacies, the cost of healthcare, and the quality of medical services, to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. This comprehensive assessment, taking into account all aspects of transportation and healthcare access, will ultimately determine the overall Hypertension Score and its impact on the well-being of residents managing this chronic condition.