The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47574, Rome, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
10.98 percent of residents in 47574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.17 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 47574, Rome, Indiana
Hypertension Score | 57 |
---|---|
People Score | 88 |
Provider Score | 12 |
Hospital Score | 59 |
Travel Score | 43 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 47574 | Rome | Indiana |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.65 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.52 |
2 Cars | 18.89 | 18.89 | 41.91 |
3 or More Cars | 81.11 | 81.11 | 36.91 |
Vehicular Access in 47574, Rome, Indiana
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rome, Indiana (ZIP Code 47574)
The simple act of receiving healthcare, especially for a condition like hypertension, can be a complex journey. In Rome, Indiana (ZIP Code 47574), this journey is significantly shaped by the availability and accessibility of transportation. This write-up aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" for the area, assessing the challenges and opportunities residents face when seeking medical attention for high blood pressure. The score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and evaluates their impact on healthcare access.
For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and regular monitoring is crucial. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and reliably directly impacts the effectiveness of treatment and overall health outcomes. The challenges presented by transportation limitations can create significant barriers, potentially leading to delayed care, medication non-adherence, and ultimately, poorer health.
**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Healthcare**
The primary mode of transportation in Rome, Indiana, is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town’s layout and the distances to healthcare facilities heavily favor car travel. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are primarily located in Vincennes, approximately 20 miles west, and Jasper, roughly 35 miles east.
Reaching Vincennes General Hospital from Rome requires navigating a combination of roadways. The most direct route typically involves taking State Road 61 north to U.S. Route 50 west. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take around 30 to 40 minutes. Traffic, especially during peak hours, can extend this travel time, increasing the risk for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis.
Alternatively, the drive to Memorial Hospital in Jasper involves heading east on State Road 64, then merging onto U.S. Route 231 north. This journey, while longer, can be completed in approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The winding roads and potential for inclement weather add to the complexities of this commute.
The condition of these roads, particularly State Road 64, can impact travel times. Potholes, inadequate lighting, and the absence of sidewalks present hazards, especially for elderly residents or those with mobility issues. The lack of alternative routes further exacerbates the challenges, leaving residents vulnerable to delays caused by accidents or road closures.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in Rome are extremely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public bus system, making it difficult for individuals without access to a personal vehicle to reach healthcare facilities. This presents a significant barrier for those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.
While there might be local transportation services or volunteer driver programs, their availability and reliability are often inconsistent. Information about these services can be difficult to find, and the scheduling process may be cumbersome, further hindering healthcare access.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their coverage and availability are not guaranteed, particularly in rural areas like Rome. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, exist. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those requiring specialized assistance. However, the availability of these services in Rome and their associated costs should be researched.
**Healthcare Access and the Moving to Rome Decision**
The availability of transportation directly influences healthcare access, which is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Rome, especially individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The lack of readily available public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles can be a deterrent for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.
The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for travel delays should be carefully considered. Individuals with hypertension need to factor in the travel time, the cost of transportation, and the potential for unexpected delays when planning their healthcare needs.
**Assessing the Hypertension Score**
Based on the factors discussed, the Hypertension Score for Rome, Indiana (ZIP Code 47574) is moderate. The primary challenge lies in the limited transportation options. While personal vehicles offer a degree of accessibility, the absence of a robust public transit system, combined with the potential unreliability of ride-sharing and medical transport, creates significant barriers for some residents.
The distance to healthcare facilities also contributes to the score. The 30-60 minute drive to the nearest hospitals and clinics can be problematic for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or those requiring frequent medical attention.
**Recommendations for Improvement**
To improve the Hypertension Score and enhance healthcare access in Rome, several measures could be implemented. Expanding public transportation options, even with limited routes and schedules, would significantly benefit residents. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.
Investing in improved road infrastructure, including better lighting and sidewalks, would enhance safety and reduce travel times. Promoting awareness of existing medical transportation services and providing resources for individuals to access these services is also crucial.
Finally, encouraging the development of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could mitigate some of the transportation challenges. These measures would not only improve healthcare access for individuals with hypertension but also enhance the overall quality of life for all residents of Rome, Indiana. The ability to easily access healthcare is an essential component of a healthy community, and addressing the transportation barriers is a critical step towards achieving that goal.
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