46928, Fairmount, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 46928, Fairmount, Indiana is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.46 percent of residents in 46928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Va N. Indiana Healthcare System - Marion with a distance of 7.85 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Fairmount, Indiana (ZIP Code 46928)**

The air hangs heavy with the scent of possibility in Fairmount, Indiana, a town etched in the heartland of America. For those considering a move to this community, especially those with a history of lung cancer or at risk, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 46928, examining the critical link between mobility and healthcare access, a vital component in calculating a "Lung Cancer Score" for potential residents.

Fairmount, while offering a sense of small-town charm, presents unique transportation challenges. The town itself is relatively compact, making local navigation straightforward. However, access to specialized medical care, including oncology services, often necessitates travel to larger cities. This is where the "Lung Cancer Score" becomes a crucial tool, reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare resources.

The primary arteries for navigating the region are US-35 and State Road 26. US-35 serves as the main north-south corridor, connecting Fairmount to Marion, approximately a 20-minute drive south. State Road 26 runs east-west, providing access to nearby towns like Gas City and Jonesboro. These two highways are the lifelines for those seeking healthcare outside Fairmount.

The drive to Marion, home to Marion Health, a hospital offering some specialized services, is generally manageable. The 20-minute drive on US-35 is usually smooth, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times. This variability is a factor in assessing the "Lung Cancer Score," as unpredictable delays can create anxiety for patients needing timely medical attention.

For more advanced care, including comprehensive oncology services, residents often travel to larger cities like Indianapolis, approximately a 90-minute drive south. This journey is primarily via I-69, a major interstate highway. While I-69 offers a relatively direct route, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can add considerable time to the commute. The "Lung Cancer Score" must account for this longer travel time, recognizing the added stress and potential challenges for patients undergoing treatment.

Public transportation options in Fairmount are limited. Grant County, where Fairmount is located, does have a public transit system, Grant Transit, but its routes and frequency are geared towards serving the broader county rather than providing frequent, direct access to healthcare facilities. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features would need to be verified directly with Grant Transit. The lack of robust public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations, negatively impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," highlighting the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a crucial consideration, especially for patients who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The "Lung Cancer Score" must acknowledge the potential for delays or unavailability of ride-sharing services, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) may operate in the region, offering door-to-door service for appointments and treatments. However, the availability, cost, and insurance coverage for these services vary. Researching specific NEMT providers serving Fairmount and understanding their operational area is essential for calculating an accurate "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" also needs to consider the availability of local healthcare providers. While Fairmount may have primary care physicians and general practitioners, access to specialists, such as oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists, is likely limited. This necessitates travel to larger cities, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation.

The decision to move to Fairmount, Indiana, is a personal one, and the "Lung Cancer Score" is just one piece of the puzzle. For individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at risk, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is critical. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the overall score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" should reflect the potential for delays, the added stress of travel, and the overall impact on healthcare access. A higher score, indicating greater challenges, may influence the decision to move to Fairmount. Conversely, individuals with robust support systems, access to reliable transportation, and financial resources may find the challenges manageable.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" is a tool designed to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By carefully evaluating the transportation options, the availability of healthcare providers, and the potential challenges of accessing care, individuals can assess the suitability of Fairmount, Indiana, as a place to call home. The vibrant community, the affordable living, and the small-town charm may be enticing, but the realities of healthcare access must be carefully considered.