47585, Stendal, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47585, Stendal, Indiana is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.81 percent of residents in 47585 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 13.86 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47585 (Stendal, Indiana)**

Understanding the ease with which residents of Stendal, Indiana (ZIP code 47585) can access healthcare is crucial for assessing overall community well-being, especially when considering health conditions like hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for residents to reach vital medical services. We'll consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Stendal, Indiana, and needing to understand their healthcare access.

The primary determinant of a good "Hypertension Score" is the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities. In Stendal, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The town is relatively rural, and public transportation options are limited. This necessitates a thorough examination of driving distances and road conditions to access medical care.

**Driving Distances and Roadways**

The nearest major medical facilities are located in Jasper, Indiana, approximately 15 to 20 miles away. This drive typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The primary route involves traveling east on State Road 56, a two-lane highway. This route is generally well-maintained but can experience delays due to agricultural traffic, especially during planting and harvesting seasons.

Another option is to take County Road 200 West south to State Road 64 East, then north on US-231 to Jasper. This route is slightly longer, about 25 miles, but may offer a less congested alternative, depending on the time of day. The condition of these county roads can vary, with potential for potholes and gravel sections, which could impact travel times and the comfort of individuals with hypertension.

Further healthcare options exist in Evansville, Indiana, about 60 miles southwest. This drive involves a significant commute, taking approximately one hour and 15 minutes to one hour and 30 minutes via US-231 South to Interstate 64 West. This longer distance introduces additional challenges, including increased fuel costs and the potential for fatigue, which can exacerbate health concerns.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Stendal are extremely limited. Dubois County, where Stendal is located, does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score" for residents without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to health conditions. This is a significant barrier to healthcare access.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the Dubois County Transit provides demand-response transportation services. This service requires advance booking and operates within Dubois County. It is not a convenient option for regular medical appointments in Jasper or Evansville.

The lack of accessible public transit is a major concern for individuals with hypertension who may experience mobility limitations or require frequent medical check-ups. This severely limits their ability to manage their condition effectively.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jasper and Evansville areas. However, their availability in Stendal is less reliable. While a ride might be secured, the wait times could be extended, and the cost could be significant, particularly for trips to Evansville. This uncertainty adds to the stress and inconvenience for individuals with hypertension.

Medical transport services are available in the area, offering specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be costly and often require pre-authorization or insurance coverage.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible public transportation is a major concern. The Dubois County Transit offers ADA-compliant services, but the limited scope of the service and the need for advance booking present challenges. The availability of accessible ride-sharing vehicles in Stendal is uncertain. This highlights the need for improved transportation options for individuals with disabilities and those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Medical Transport and Insurance**

Medical transport services, while offering a crucial lifeline for some, can be a financial burden. Insurance coverage varies, and co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses can be significant. This financial barrier can further impede healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. Understanding insurance coverage and the costs associated with medical transport is essential for residents of Stendal.

**The "Hypertension Score" Assessment**

Considering the limited transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for Stendal (47585) is moderate to low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport create barriers to healthcare access.

The distance to major medical facilities in Jasper and Evansville, coupled with the potential for traffic delays and the costs associated with transportation, can contribute to stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Stendal, this assessment emphasizes the importance of having a reliable means of transportation and understanding the available healthcare resources and the logistics of accessing them.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the "Hypertension Score" for Stendal requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring the possibility of expanding public transportation options, partnering with ride-sharing services to increase availability, and providing financial assistance for medical transport services.

Community initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles, including access to exercise facilities and educational programs on hypertension management, are also crucial.

Increased awareness of available healthcare resources and transportation options can empower residents to proactively manage their health.

Finally, advocating for policies that support improved transportation infrastructure and healthcare access is essential to ensure that all residents of Stendal have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.