47118, English, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47118, English, Indiana is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.55 percent of residents in 47118 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Paoli Hospital with a distance of 18.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 47118

Assessing healthcare access is crucial, especially when considering the potential challenges faced by individuals battling lung cancer. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 47118, examining transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical care. Understanding these factors provides a ‘Lung Cancer Score’ – a measure of the ease with which residents can reach necessary treatments and appointments.

The primary hurdle for residents of 47118 is the limited availability of specialized lung cancer care within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel, making transportation a critical determinant of healthcare access. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will therefore consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. In 47118, the major thoroughfare is Indiana State Road 62, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. This is the lifeline for many residents, connecting them to larger towns and cities where specialized healthcare facilities are located.

Heading east on State Road 62, the drive to Baptist Health Floyd in New Albany, a facility with oncology services, is approximately 30 minutes under optimal traffic conditions. This journey is relatively straightforward, offering a direct route. However, traffic can significantly impact this travel time, especially during morning and evening commutes.

Traveling west on State Road 62, the drive to the University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, a major cancer center, takes approximately 45 minutes. This route involves crossing the Ohio River, which can be a source of delays, particularly during bridge maintenance or accidents. The journey also requires navigating city traffic, adding further complexity.

Other routes, such as utilizing local roads like IN-135, offer alternative paths, but these roads are often narrower and may not be as well-maintained. They may also add considerable time to the overall travel duration. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can further complicate travel.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in 47118 is limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) provides bus service to Louisville, Kentucky, but the routes and frequency are limited in this area.

While TARC does not directly serve 47118, residents could potentially utilize a combination of local transportation and TARC routes to reach healthcare facilities in Louisville. However, this would likely involve multiple transfers and significantly increase travel time, making it a less desirable option for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may be experiencing fatigue and other side effects.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration. TARC offers accessible services on all its routes, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize public transportation. However, the limited route options and potential for long travel times make this a less practical solution.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in 47118 may vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand could make them expensive.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by private companies, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they can be costly, and the availability of these services in 47118 needs to be carefully considered.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide medical transportation services in the area. However, their coverage areas and pricing structures can vary. It is crucial to research and compare different providers to find the most suitable and affordable option.

**Evaluating the ‘Lung Cancer Score’**

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for 47118 is significantly impacted by the limited access to specialized lung cancer care within the ZIP Code. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for lengthy travel times to reach healthcare facilities are major concerns.

While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative options, their availability, cost, and reliability need careful consideration. Public transportation, with its limited routes and potential for lengthy travel times, presents a less attractive option.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for 47118 is therefore moderately concerning. The need for reliable transportation, coupled with the potential for significant travel times, poses challenges for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for 47118, several measures are recommended. Increasing the frequency and expanding the routes of public transportation, particularly to connect with healthcare facilities, would be beneficial.

Promoting ride-sharing and medical transport services through subsidies or partnerships could make these options more accessible and affordable. Improving road infrastructure and traffic management, particularly on State Road 62, would reduce travel times and enhance safety.

Furthermore, exploring the possibility of establishing a satellite clinic or offering telehealth services in 47118 would improve healthcare access and reduce the burden of travel for residents battling lung cancer. These improvements would contribute to a higher ‘Lung Cancer Score’ and ensure that residents of 47118 have better access to the care they need.