47598, Winslow, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47598, Winslow, Indiana is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.74 percent of residents in 47598 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 14.66 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Winslow, Indiana (ZIP Code 47598)**

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is crucial for residents of Winslow, Indiana. This assessment, a "Hypertension Score," analyzes transportation options available within ZIP code 47598, directly impacting the ability of individuals to receive timely and consistent medical care. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those living in and considering moving to Winslow.

The primary consideration for Winslow residents is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's relative isolation means that most healthcare appointments necessitate a car. The most direct routes to healthcare facilities typically involve navigating the local roadways. From Winslow, residents can travel east on State Road 64, a key artery connecting the town to nearby communities. This route provides access to Princeton, Indiana, where the Gibson General Hospital is located, a critical healthcare provider for the region.

Alternatively, heading west on State Road 64 leads to smaller towns and potentially other healthcare providers, although the options are fewer. For those needing to reach Evansville, a larger city with more extensive medical facilities, the journey often involves traveling north on US-41, a major north-south highway. This route, while offering faster speeds, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can also affect travel times and potentially delay access to critical medical care.

The drive time to Gibson General Hospital from Winslow is generally around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Winslow. The trip to Evansville can take up to an hour or more, representing a significant time commitment for routine check-ups or specialist appointments. This time commitment is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score, as longer travel times can discourage consistent healthcare utilization, potentially worsening hypertension management. This is a significant consideration for anyone moving to Winslow.

Public transportation options in Winslow are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or directly connecting it to larger cities with comprehensive healthcare facilities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, especially for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with owning and operating a car.

The absence of a robust public transit network presents a significant barrier to healthcare access. Individuals reliant on public transportation may face considerable challenges in attending regular appointments, obtaining medications, and accessing emergency medical services. The lack of ADA-accessible features on any non-existent public transit further compounds the problem for those with disabilities or mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Evansville area, but their presence in Winslow is less certain. Even if available, the cost of a ride-share for a round trip to Evansville could be substantial, potentially making it unaffordable for some residents. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is also a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a potential option for Winslow residents. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services that may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the availability of these services, the cost, and the insurance coverage for them can vary.

The availability and accessibility of medical transportation services are critical components of the Hypertension Score. While these services can bridge the gap created by the lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, their cost and availability must be carefully considered. For individuals with hypertension, timely access to medical care is essential for managing their condition and preventing complications.

The overall Hypertension Score for Winslow, Indiana, reflects the challenges residents face in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a score that indicates moderate accessibility. This score is especially relevant for individuals with hypertension, a condition that requires consistent medical attention and medication management.

The score is also impacted by the distance to larger medical facilities. The drive time to Gibson General Hospital is relatively manageable, but the longer travel times to Evansville, where more specialized care is available, can be a deterrent. The costs associated with transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential ride-sharing or medical transport fees, also impact the score, potentially affecting the ability of some residents to afford regular healthcare.

For those considering moving to Winslow, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully assess their ability to manage the transportation challenges. They should consider the potential costs, the time commitment, and the reliability of available services.

The Hypertension Score is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the lived experience of Winslow residents. It highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access and underscores the need for community-based solutions. These solutions could include exploring partnerships with medical transport providers, advocating for expanded ride-sharing services, or exploring the feasibility of a limited public transit system.

Ultimately, improving the Hypertension Score in Winslow requires a multifaceted approach. It involves addressing the transportation challenges, increasing awareness of available healthcare resources, and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and consistent medical care. This is a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to Winslow. The ability to easily access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of quality of life, and improving the Hypertension Score is a vital step toward ensuring the well-being of the Winslow community.