46128, Fillmore, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 46128, Fillmore, Indiana is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.73 percent of residents in 46128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Putnam County Hospital with a distance of 6.55 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 46128, Fillmore, Indiana

The journey to healthcare, particularly for serious conditions like lung cancer, is a complex equation. It’s not just about the quality of medical professionals, but also the accessibility of their care. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 46128, Fillmore, Indiana, to assess its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. We'll consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone contemplating a move to Fillmore or seeking care in this area. This analysis aims to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical resources.

Fillmore, a small town nestled in Putnam County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare. The primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. For residents, the ability to drive to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care is paramount. The local road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the time and effort required to reach critical healthcare facilities.

The closest major medical centers are located in Greencastle, approximately 10 miles east, and Plainfield, roughly 30 miles east. Driving to Greencastle, the primary destination for many residents, involves navigating a combination of county roads and US-231. The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more, adding stress and potential delays for those with urgent medical needs.

For specialized lung cancer care, individuals may need to travel to Indianapolis, which is approximately 45-50 miles east. This journey requires utilizing US-231 to I-70 East. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take around an hour. However, traffic congestion, especially around Indianapolis, can significantly increase travel time. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, experiencing side effects, or requiring frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in Fillmore and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Putnam County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This limitation disproportionately affects the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities, potentially creating significant barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can be inconsistent. While these services offer a potential alternative to driving, their availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments, further exacerbating healthcare access challenges.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for patients who are unable to drive themselves or utilize ride-sharing services. Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including specialized ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations. However, these services often require prior scheduling and can be costly, adding another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for ZIP Code 46128 reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. While the proximity to Greencastle offers relatively quick access to basic medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transportation create significant challenges. The longer travel times to Indianapolis for specialized care, coupled with potential traffic delays, can add stress and inconvenience for patients.

The absence of reliable public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations. The availability and cost of medical transportation services offer a crucial safety net, but they are not a universal solution.

For individuals considering a move to Fillmore or those already residing in the area and facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, understanding these transportation realities is critical. It is essential to factor in the time and effort required to access medical care when making decisions about where to live or how to manage their health.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Fillmore, Indiana, would be moderate. While basic healthcare is accessible, the limited transportation options, particularly for specialized care, present significant challenges. Individuals should carefully consider their transportation needs and resources when navigating their healthcare journey in this area.

The future of healthcare access in Fillmore could be improved by exploring options for increasing transportation. This could include advocating for expanded ride-sharing services, exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers, or advocating for a regional public transit system. Such initiatives would significantly improve the 'Lung Cancer Score' and enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Furthermore, individuals considering a move to Fillmore should thoroughly research the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, including specialists, treatment centers, and support groups. They should also assess their transportation options and plan accordingly. Proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape are essential for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access in this rural community.

Ultimately, the journey through a lung cancer diagnosis is challenging enough. Ensuring easy and reliable transportation to healthcare appointments is a critical component of a patient's well-being. By understanding the transportation dynamics of ZIP Code 46128, residents can better navigate their healthcare journey and advocate for improved access to care.