47561, Oaktown, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47561, Oaktown, Indiana is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.24 percent of residents in 47561 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Hospital with a distance of 14.02 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 47561

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is crucial, especially for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 47561, aims to evaluate the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, providing a "Hypertension Score" that considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of travel. This information is vital for individuals already residing in the area and those considering **moving to Oaktown**, helping them assess their **healthcare access** options.

ZIP code 47561, encompassing the town of Oakland City, Indiana, presents a unique landscape. The area is primarily rural, characterized by rolling hills and farmland. This geographic context significantly impacts the availability and convenience of transportation options, which directly influences the Hypertension Score. The score considers the time and effort required to reach medical appointments, a critical factor in managing hypertension effectively.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. The primary artery through the area is State Road 57, a north-south thoroughfare. Traveling south on State Road 57, residents can access Gibson General Hospital in Princeton, Indiana. This drive typically takes around 20-25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions.

Heading north on State Road 57 provides access to healthcare facilities in Washington, Indiana. The drive time to Daviess Community Hospital averages 30-35 minutes. This longer travel time emphasizes the importance of proactive planning for medical appointments.

Smaller, local roads like State Road 64 and County Road 100 provide alternative routes, but these often involve slower speeds and potential delays due to rural road conditions. It is crucial to factor in these variables when calculating estimated travel times.

The presence of Interstate 64, which runs east-west, offers a faster route to more distant healthcare providers in Evansville, Indiana. However, this option is less convenient for routine appointments due to the increased travel distance and the potential for highway congestion.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transit options within ZIP code 47561 are extremely limited. The area lacks a dedicated public bus system. This absence significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not drive, especially those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

While there are no fixed-route buses, there might be demand-response transportation services available through the local county. These services typically require advance booking and are often geared towards seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, availability and operating hours can vary, and these services might not be suitable for urgent medical needs.

The lack of robust public transit presents a major challenge for residents who rely on alternative transportation. This limitation negatively impacts the Hypertension Score, as it reduces the options available for reaching healthcare providers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but their coverage might be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. Availability can be unreliable, making it challenging to depend on these services for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services, often provided by private companies, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, they can be costly, and availability might be limited.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation highlights the need for careful planning and financial considerations when managing hypertension in this area. The availability of these services contributes to the Hypertension Score, albeit with limitations.

**ADA Accessibility: A Crucial Consideration**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and medical facilities. While the absence of a public bus system in ZIP code 47561 is a major concern, it is important to assess the ADA compliance of the healthcare facilities themselves.

Facilities like Gibson General Hospital and Daviess Community Hospital should be fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and other features designed to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, it is crucial to confirm these details with the specific healthcare provider before scheduling appointments.

**The Hypertension Score: A Synthesis**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 47561 reflects the challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to nearby hospitals, but longer distances to specialized care.
* **Public Transit:** Extremely limited public transit options, significantly impacting healthcare access.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:** Available but potentially unreliable and costly.
* **ADA Accessibility:** Healthcare facilities should be ADA compliant, but the lack of public transit hinders access for those with disabilities.

Based on these factors, the Hypertension Score for ZIP code 47561 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of public transit and the reliance on potentially unreliable or expensive alternatives pose significant challenges.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For current residents managing hypertension, this analysis underscores the importance of:

* Planning ahead and scheduling appointments well in advance.
* Exploring all transportation options, including ride-sharing and medical transportation.
* Confirming the ADA accessibility of healthcare facilities.
* Considering the financial implications of transportation costs.

For those considering **moving to Oaktown**, this analysis provides valuable insights into the healthcare landscape. It is essential to factor in the limitations of transportation options when making a relocation decision. Individuals with hypertension should carefully assess their ability to access medical care and consider the potential challenges associated with transportation.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Managing hypertension effectively requires consistent access to medical care. The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 47561 highlights the need for proactive planning and awareness of the available transportation options. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on alternative modes of transportation require careful consideration. By understanding these factors, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions and navigate the healthcare landscape effectively, ensuring access to the care they need to manage their health.