47640, Hazleton, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47640, Hazleton, Indiana is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.67 percent of residents in 47640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gibson General Hospital with a distance of 9.77 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hazleton, Indiana (ZIP Code 47640)**

The journey to manage hypertension, a chronic condition affecting millions, demands more than just medication; it requires consistent healthcare access. This analysis explores the transportation landscape in Hazleton, Indiana (ZIP Code 47640), focusing on how residents can reach essential medical services. We'll assess drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately providing a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease with which individuals can access healthcare within this community. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Hazleton, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health.

Hazleton, a small town in Gibson County, presents unique transportation challenges. Unlike urban centers with robust public transit, Hazleton relies heavily on personal vehicles. This reliance significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without reliable transportation or those with mobility limitations. The availability of alternative transportation options becomes crucial in mitigating these challenges.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary roadways serving Hazleton are State Road 57 and County Road 500 South. These arteries connect Hazleton to larger towns and cities where specialized medical services are often located. Driving times are critical, influencing appointment adherence and overall healthcare management.

To reach the nearest major healthcare hub, Gibson General Hospital in Princeton, Indiana, residents typically travel via State Road 57. The drive is approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for Hazleton residents, offering convenient access to emergency care, inpatient services, and a range of outpatient clinics.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Evansville, Indiana, approximately 40 miles south, offers a wider array of medical specialists and advanced treatment options. The journey to Evansville involves navigating State Road 57, then either Interstate 64 or US Highway 41. The drive time can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Evansville. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with frequent appointments or those requiring urgent care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in Hazleton are extremely limited. Gibson County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of public transit disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, who may struggle to afford or access alternative transportation options.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Evansville area, but their presence in Hazleton is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires advance planning and confirmation of service availability.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring non-emergency medical transport. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve additional costs. The availability and cost of medical transport services are essential factors to consider when assessing healthcare access in Hazleton.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in Hazleton is a multifaceted challenge, influenced by transportation, healthcare provider availability, and individual circumstances. While the proximity to Gibson General Hospital provides a valuable resource, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents.

Individuals considering moving to Hazleton should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with chronic conditions, such as hypertension, should factor in the potential challenges of accessing regular medical appointments and specialized care.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The “Hypertension Score” for Hazleton (ZIP Code 47640) reflects the overall ease with which residents can access healthcare services related to managing hypertension. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transport services.

* **Drive Time to Primary Care:** Excellent (10-15 minutes to Gibson General Hospital)
* **Drive Time to Specialized Care:** Moderate (45 minutes to 1 hour to Evansville)
* **Public Transit Availability:** Very Poor (No public bus system)
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Limited and potentially unreliable
* **Medical Transport Services:** Available, but may require pre-booking and incur additional costs

**Overall Hypertension Score: Moderate**

The “Hypertension Score” for Hazleton is moderate. While the proximity to Gibson General Hospital provides a significant advantage, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create challenges for some residents. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully consider their transportation needs and healthcare requirements before moving to Hazleton. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers, exploring medical transport options, and considering the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, can help mitigate these challenges. This assessment underscores the importance of comprehensive planning for anyone prioritizing healthcare access when choosing a place to live.