47564, Otwell, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47564, Otwell, Indiana is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.26 percent of residents in 47564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 9.86 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Otwell, Indiana (ZIP Code 47564)

Otwell, Indiana, a tranquil community nestled in the heart of Dubois County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 47564, aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to essential medical services. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a clear picture for residents and those **moving to Otwell**.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical grade, but rather a qualitative evaluation, a narrative that illuminates the realities of accessing care. It considers the urgency of hypertension management – the need for timely medication refills, regular check-ups, and prompt attention to complications. The score will reflect the potential impact of **transportation** limitations on a patient's ability to maintain optimal health.

**Drive Times: The Automotive Landscape**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Otwell is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The landscape is dominated by rural roads, connecting the small town to larger population centers where specialized medical care is concentrated. For residents of 47564, the most immediate healthcare access points are in Jasper, approximately 15 miles to the southeast.

The journey to Jasper typically involves navigating Indiana State Road 56, a relatively well-maintained two-lane highway. Drive times, under normal traffic conditions, average around 20-25 minutes. This is a reasonable timeframe for routine appointments and medication pick-ups. However, the potential for delays exists, particularly during inclement weather or peak traffic hours.

Further afield, the larger regional medical centers are located in Evansville, approximately 60 miles southwest. This journey primarily utilizes US-231 South and then Interstate 64 West. The drive time to Evansville can range from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with urgent medical needs or those requiring frequent specialist visits.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Otwell and Dubois County are extremely limited. The Dubois County Transit system provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to the general public, with fares based on distance traveled. However, the service operates on a limited schedule, often with restricted evening and weekend hours.

For residents of 47564, accessing the Dubois County Transit requires a phone call to schedule a ride. Availability can vary, and the system may not be ideal for spontaneous trips or urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the routes and schedules are not specifically designed to prioritize healthcare access, potentially adding significant travel time to appointments. The system does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jasper and Evansville areas. However, their presence in Otwell itself is less consistent. Securing a ride may require a longer wait time, and availability is often dependent on driver density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** providers. These services typically offer door-to-door **transportation**, often including assistance with medical equipment and personal care. However, medical transport services can be costly, and prior arrangements are often necessary.

**Healthcare Access: Evaluating the Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Otwell, Indiana (47564) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Jasper provides relatively convenient access to primary care and basic medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers for individuals who cannot drive or lack reliable **transportation**.

The longer drive times to Evansville, where specialized care is concentrated, pose a greater challenge. Individuals with complex medical needs or those requiring frequent specialist visits may face significant **transportation** burdens. The availability of ride-sharing services is uncertain, and the cost of medical transport can be prohibitive.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For residents of Otwell managing hypertension, proactive planning is crucial. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician in Jasper is recommended. Utilizing medication delivery services or mail-order pharmacies can minimize the need for frequent trips. Exploring the Dubois County Transit system, while acknowledging its limitations, can provide an alternative **transportation** option.

Individuals **moving to Otwell** should carefully consider their healthcare needs and **transportation** options. Assessing the availability of family or friends who can provide rides is essential. Investigating the costs and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also recommended.

The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of community support and resourcefulness. The ability to maintain optimal health in Otwell requires navigating the **transportation** landscape strategically, leveraging available resources, and proactively addressing potential barriers to healthcare access. Further investments in public **transportation** or partnerships with ride-sharing services could significantly improve the healthcare access for the residents of Otwell.