47720, Evansville, Indiana Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 47720, Evansville, Indiana is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.24 percent of residents in 47720 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Deaconess Hospital Inc with a distance of 4.56 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 47720

The quest for optimal health, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension, necessitates dependable **healthcare access**. For residents of ZIP Code 47720 in Evansville, Indiana, the ease with which they can reach medical facilities significantly impacts their well-being. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape, assessing the challenges and opportunities for patients seeking care, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the accessibility of essential medical services.

The core of the analysis focuses on the practicalities of getting to a doctor's appointment, picking up medication, or attending follow-up appointments. We will explore the options, from the familiar rumble of a personal vehicle to the complexities of public **transportation** and the evolving world of ride-sharing. The goal is to provide a clear picture for individuals considering **moving to Evansville** or for current residents striving to improve their health management.

The primary challenge in 47720 is the geographical distribution of healthcare providers. While several clinics and hospitals serve the area, their concentration isn't uniform. This necessitates a closer look at drive times, the backbone of **transportation** for many residents.

Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. From the central part of 47720, reaching Deaconess Hospital, a major medical center, typically involves navigating **Interstate 69 (I-69)**, a vital artery, and then transitioning onto **Highway 41 (US-41)**. The journey, under ideal conditions, might take 15-20 minutes. However, rush hour can easily extend this to 30 minutes or more. Similarly, accessing Ascension St. Vincent Evansville, another prominent healthcare provider, often involves a combination of local roads like **Green River Road** and **North Main Street**, potentially adding to travel time.

The condition of the roads themselves plays a crucial role. Potholes, construction, and weather conditions can significantly impact drive times and the safety of the journey. Regular maintenance and efficient traffic management are essential for minimizing delays and ensuring reliable **healthcare access**.

For those without personal vehicles, public **transportation** becomes a critical lifeline. The Metropolitan Evansville Transit System (METS) provides bus service throughout the city. Several routes serve 47720, including routes 1, 2, and 6, which offer connections to various medical facilities. While METS strives to provide accessible services, the frequency of buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a barrier. Longer wait times and the need for transfers can extend travel times considerably, impacting the ability to adhere to strict appointment schedules, a critical factor in managing hypertension.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration. METS is committed to providing accessible **transportation** options for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these buses on all routes and at all times needs to be confirmed. The presence of ramps, lifts, and designated seating is essential for ensuring equal **healthcare access** for all residents.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another avenue for **transportation**. These services provide on-demand rides, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly those with fixed incomes. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas, can also be a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), cater specifically to patients requiring assistance. These services are typically reserved for individuals with medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using public **transportation**. The cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited, particularly for routine appointments.

The **transportation** options available in 47720 present a mixed bag. While driving offers the most direct route for many, traffic and distance can create challenges. Public **transportation** provides an affordable alternative but may be hampered by frequency and route limitations. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but at a cost.

The "Hypertension Score" for 47720 reflects these complexities. It considers the average drive times to key medical facilities, the frequency and accessibility of METS routes, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical **transportation**. The score will be lower for individuals residing further from major healthcare providers, those reliant on public **transportation** with limited access, and those with financial constraints that restrict their access to ride-sharing.

For individuals considering **moving to Evansville**, understanding the **transportation** landscape is crucial for making informed decisions. Assessing the proximity of potential residences to healthcare facilities and evaluating the feasibility of various **transportation** options should be a priority. This proactive approach ensures that **healthcare access** is a key consideration in their choice of location.

Improving the "Hypertension Score" requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancements to METS, such as increased frequency, expanded route coverage, and improved accessibility, would benefit many residents. Partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could offer discounted rides for patients. Addressing road maintenance and traffic congestion is crucial for improving drive times.

Furthermore, community outreach programs that educate residents about available **transportation** options and connect them with resources are essential. Such initiatives could help individuals navigate the complexities of the **transportation** system and ensure they can access the care they need.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a **transportation** environment that facilitates seamless **healthcare access** for all residents of 47720, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, we can work towards a future where geography and **transportation** are not barriers to health and well-being.