47165, Pekin, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47165, Pekin, Indiana is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.04 percent of residents in 47165 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Salem with a distance of 9.59 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pekin, Indiana (ZIP Code 47165)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. In the heart of Washington County, Indiana, ZIP code 47165, the town of Pekin presents unique challenges and opportunities in navigating the complexities of treatment. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the availability of transportation options to healthcare facilities, offering a critical perspective for residents and those considering moving to Pekin. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all vital factors in a timely response to a serious illness.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care lies in timely diagnosis and treatment. This necessitates reliable transportation to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and supporting services. In Pekin, the landscape is predominantly rural, influencing transportation options. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, recognizing that local options may be limited.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most residents. From Pekin, a journey to larger hospitals and specialized cancer centers in Louisville, Kentucky, or Indianapolis, Indiana, becomes a crucial aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score." The drive to Louisville, a major medical hub, typically involves navigating **Indiana State Road 60** east, connecting to **Interstate 64** and then **Interstate 65** south. This drive can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic.

The route to Indianapolis, a larger medical center, requires a more extended journey. The most direct route involves traveling north on **Indiana State Road 60**, connecting to **Interstate 65**. This drive, covering approximately 80 miles, can take upwards of two hours, again contingent on traffic conditions. These drive times are crucial considerations, particularly in emergencies or for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options in Pekin are limited. Washington County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This absence presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their illness or other limitations. The lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," as it restricts access for a vulnerable population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pekin. However, their availability and reliability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for individuals facing the high costs associated with cancer treatment. This adds another layer of complexity to the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services play a vital role in ensuring access to care for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services ranging from non-emergency transportation to stretcher transport and ambulance services. These services are often essential for patients undergoing treatment or needing to travel to appointments.

These services, such as AMR, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Understanding the availability and affordability of these services is a critical element of the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of local healthcare providers. While Pekin may have limited specialized cancer care, the presence of primary care physicians, urgent care clinics, and pharmacies is crucial. These local resources can provide initial assessments, referrals to specialists, and medication management.

Access to these local resources reduces the burden of travel for routine care and follow-up appointments. The proximity of these services contributes to a more favorable "Lung Cancer Score."

For individuals considering moving to Pekin, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides essential insights into the healthcare landscape. It highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare services, assess their transportation needs, and explore potential support networks.

The challenges associated with transportation can be particularly acute for elderly residents or those with disabilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of considering the accessibility of healthcare facilities and transportation services for individuals with limited mobility.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical rating. It is a holistic assessment of the healthcare environment, considering the interplay of transportation, access to care, and the specific needs of lung cancer patients. The score is dynamic, influenced by factors such as traffic, weather, and the availability of services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Pekin, Indiana, is influenced by its rural setting and the distance to major medical centers. While drive times to Louisville and Indianapolis are manageable, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential for fluctuating ride-sharing availability pose significant challenges. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline for patients with mobility limitations.

The score also acknowledges the importance of local healthcare resources, such as primary care physicians and pharmacies. These local services play a vital role in providing initial assessments, referrals, and medication management.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a guide for residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers in the Pekin area. It highlights the need for proactive planning, community support, and the exploration of innovative transportation solutions to ensure timely access to high-quality lung cancer care.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access, recognizing that transportation is a critical component of successful treatment outcomes. The score will continue to evolve as the healthcare landscape changes, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve access to care for all residents of Pekin and the surrounding areas.