46901, Kokomo, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 46901, Kokomo, Indiana is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.99 percent of residents in 46901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Kokomo with a distance of 0.91 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kokomo (ZIP Code 46901)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical component of survival and quality of life. This write-up analyzes the landscape of **transportation** options within ZIP Code 46901 (Kokomo, Indiana), focusing on **healthcare access** for individuals requiring lung cancer treatment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering valuable insights for residents and those **moving to Kokomo**.

Kokomo, a city nestled in north-central Indiana, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The city's layout and available transportation options directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary healthcare provider for lung cancer treatment in Kokomo is Community Howard Regional Health, located at 3500 S. Lafountain Street. Accessing this facility primarily relies on personal vehicles. From the heart of Kokomo, a drive south on South Main Street, transitioning onto South Reed Road, and then onto East Markland Avenue, typically takes between 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, individuals residing in the western parts of the city might utilize West Sycamore Street, which connects to South Reed Road, offering a similar drive time. Residents in the eastern areas can access the hospital via East Boulevard Street and then onto East Markland Avenue. The primary thoroughfares, including South Main Street, South Reed Road, and East Markland Avenue, are generally well-maintained, offering a relatively smooth commute.

For those living further afield, the primary highway connecting Kokomo to surrounding areas is US-31. Traveling north on US-31 to reach Kokomo from cities like Peru or Rochester can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Heading south on US-31 towards Indianapolis involves a drive of about an hour and a half, a significant consideration for specialized care or consultations. Indiana 931, another important route, provides access to areas east and west of Kokomo.

The efficiency of these road networks is vital. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, creating stress and potentially delaying access to critical medical appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Kokomo's public transit system, known as the Kokomo City Lines, offers a limited network of bus routes. While the system provides a degree of accessibility, it presents challenges for individuals with mobility issues and those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The primary bus routes, such as Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3, operate on fixed schedules, with limited service on weekends and evenings. The frequency of service is generally low, with buses running at intervals of approximately one hour. This can necessitate long wait times, making it difficult for patients to adhere to strict appointment schedules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. Kokomo City Lines buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still present significant barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals relying on public transit, the journey to Community Howard Regional Health can involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. This can be particularly challenging for lung cancer patients who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or other treatment-related side effects.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option in Kokomo. While availability may vary depending on demand and time of day, these services offer a convenient way to travel to and from medical appointments.

The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips. However, the flexibility and door-to-door service can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or rely on public transit.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide specialized vehicles equipped with medical equipment and trained personnel to assist patients during their journeys.

The availability of medical transport services in Kokomo is crucial for individuals who require assistance with mobility, oxygen, or other medical needs. These services can offer a safe and reliable means of accessing healthcare, ensuring that patients receive the necessary care without undue hardship.

**The Lung Cancer Score:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 46901 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While Kokomo offers a relatively accessible healthcare facility in Community Howard Regional Health, the limitations of public transit and the potential for long drive times from surrounding areas create challenges.

The score would consider the following:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** The relative ease of accessing Community Howard Regional Health via personal vehicle, considering traffic conditions and the distance from various parts of the city and surrounding areas.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of the Kokomo City Lines.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing services, considering potential wait times and cost factors.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services for individuals with specific needs.

The overall score would be a composite, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation mode. A higher score would indicate greater ease of access to healthcare, while a lower score would highlight potential barriers.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Kokomo requires careful consideration of **transportation** options. While personal vehicles offer the most direct route to Community Howard Regional Health, the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services necessitate a comprehensive understanding of available resources.

For individuals considering **moving to Kokomo** and those already residing in the area, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial. Understanding the "Lung Cancer Score" can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care, ensuring they receive the timely and consistent treatment they deserve. Ultimately, the goal is to minimize **healthcare access** barriers, ensuring that individuals battling lung cancer can focus on their health and well-being.