47575, Saint Anthony, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47575, Saint Anthony, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.48 percent of residents in 47575 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 8.76 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Saint Anthony, Indiana (ZIP Code 47575)

The quiet charm of Saint Anthony, Indiana, nestled in Dubois County, offers a peaceful respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. For those considering a move to this tranquil community, understanding the local healthcare landscape is paramount, particularly regarding access for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the nuances of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP code 47575, providing a comprehensive view for potential residents.

Our focus centers on the challenges and opportunities in navigating the commute to healthcare facilities, considering the specific needs of individuals managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care necessitate reliable and efficient transportation options. The score will evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on various modes of transportation, providing insights for informed decision-making.

The foundation of our assessment lies in understanding the geographical context. Saint Anthony is a small town, and healthcare access is primarily centered in Jasper, the county seat, and surrounding areas. The primary roadways serving the community are crucial to the equation.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The main artery connecting Saint Anthony to the broader healthcare network is State Road 164. This two-lane highway provides a direct route to Jasper, approximately 10 miles away. Drive times are generally short, typically around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is a significant advantage for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

For access to more specialized care, residents often travel to Evansville, approximately 70 miles southwest. This journey involves navigating State Road 164 to US-231 South, then transitioning to I-64 West. Drive times to Evansville can range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location of the healthcare facility. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent monitoring or face urgent medical needs.

Another option for reaching healthcare is to travel north on State Road 164 to the town of Ferdinand. Ferdinand is approximately 10 miles away. The drive time is approximately 15-20 minutes. Ferdinand offers a variety of healthcare options, including primary care physicians and specialists.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Dubois County are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The county does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transportation is a considerable factor in the Hypertension Score, as it restricts access for those unable to drive or who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

While formal public transit is absent, Dubois County does offer a limited demand-response transportation service, Dubois County Transit. This service, however, requires advance booking and is designed primarily for individuals with disabilities or those with limited mobility. It's crucial to note that the service may not be readily available for spontaneous appointments or emergencies. The availability of this service, while helpful, does not fully mitigate the transportation challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services must be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are typically reserved for critical medical needs and are not a practical solution for routine appointments or medication pick-ups. Understanding the availability and limitations of medical transport is vital for individuals managing hypertension.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score for Saint Anthony, Indiana, is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive times to Jasper and Ferdinand are positive elements. However, the lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

The score must also consider the availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance. Jasper offers a variety of primary care physicians, specialists, and a hospital, Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. The availability of these resources is a crucial factor in determining the overall score.

The score also accounts for the potential need to travel to Evansville for specialized care. The longer drive times to Evansville can impact the score negatively, especially for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent monitoring or face urgent medical needs.

**ADA Accessibility:**

When evaluating healthcare access, it is essential to consider the accessibility of facilities for individuals with disabilities. This includes features such as ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. The availability of these features is a crucial factor in determining the overall score.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Factors**

For individuals considering moving to Saint Anthony, Indiana, and managing hypertension, the transportation landscape presents a mixed bag. The short drive times to Jasper and Ferdinand are positive aspects. However, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services require careful consideration.

The Hypertension Score for Saint Anthony, Indiana, reflects these factors. While the community offers a peaceful setting, prospective residents must carefully assess their transportation needs and ensure they have reliable access to healthcare services. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, access ride-sharing services, or utilize the limited demand-response transportation service.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Saint Anthony is a personal one. However, a thorough understanding of the local healthcare landscape, including the transportation challenges and opportunities, is essential for ensuring a successful and healthy transition. For those prioritizing convenient healthcare access, a careful evaluation of these factors is paramount.