47429, Ellettsville, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47429, Ellettsville, Indiana is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.18 percent of residents in 47429 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital with a distance of 7.55 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ellettsville (ZIP Code 47429)

Considering a move to Ellettsville, Indiana (ZIP Code 47429)? Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere and proximity to Bloomington, a crucial factor in your decision-making process should be healthcare access, particularly if you have concerns about lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching essential medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for potential residents.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a descriptive analysis, considering the critical need for timely access to specialists, diagnostic imaging (like CT scans and PET scans), and treatment facilities. Delays in these areas can significantly impact outcomes. Our focus is on the practicalities of getting to these services from Ellettsville.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Ellettsville's location, while offering a sense of seclusion, places it within a reasonable driving distance of Bloomington, the primary hub for healthcare in the region. The most direct route is generally via **State Road 46**, a well-maintained highway that connects Ellettsville to Bloomington. During non-peak hours, a drive to the major hospitals and clinics in Bloomington – such as IU Health Bloomington Hospital – typically takes around 15-20 minutes.

However, traffic can significantly impact these times. Rush hour, typically between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, can easily extend the commute to 30 minutes or more. **State Road 46** can become congested, particularly near the intersection with **State Road 37**, a major north-south thoroughfare.

Another option is to utilize **State Road 48**, which offers a more scenic, albeit slower, route into Bloomington. This road is less prone to congestion, but the drive time is generally closer to 25-30 minutes, even during off-peak hours. This route might be preferable for those seeking a less stressful commute.

For specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to Indianapolis, approximately an hour and a half away. The primary route to Indianapolis is **State Road 37**, which merges with **I-69** to the north. While the interstate offers a faster commute, traffic, especially around Indianapolis, can be unpredictable.

**Public Transit: The Bus Route to Care**

Bloomington Transit (BT) provides public transportation within Bloomington and offers limited service to Ellettsville. Route 3, the "Ellettsville Route," is the primary option for residents. This route connects Ellettsville to the IU campus and downtown Bloomington, providing access to various healthcare facilities.

However, the frequency of Route 3 is limited, with buses running approximately every hour during peak times and less frequently during evenings and weekends. The schedule can be found on the Bloomington Transit website. Accessibility is a key consideration; all BT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating.

For individuals with mobility limitations, navigating the bus system can present challenges. Transfers may be required to reach specific medical facilities, adding to the travel time and complexity. The limited service to Ellettsville means reliance on public transit for medical appointments requires careful planning.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Ellettsville and Bloomington. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The cost of a ride-share can vary depending on demand and time of day, but it generally offers a reliable option for accessing healthcare.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several companies serve the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Some of the medical transport brands that operate in the region are:

* **CareRide**
* **American Medical Response (AMR)**
* **First Student**

These services are often covered by insurance or Medicaid, depending on the individual's needs and eligibility. However, it's crucial to book these services in advance, especially for appointments scheduled during peak hours or on weekends.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ellettsville (47429) is moderately favorable. While the proximity to Bloomington offers relatively quick access to healthcare, several factors influence the overall score.

* **Positive Aspects:** The short drive times to Bloomington, particularly during off-peak hours, provide rapid access to general medical care and basic diagnostic services. Ride-sharing services offer convenient transportation alternatives.
* **Challenges:** Reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and traffic congestion on **State Road 46** and **State Road 37** can significantly impact commute times. Public transit options are limited in frequency and may require transfers. Travel to Indianapolis for specialized care adds significant travel time.

**Moving to Ellettsville: Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk, the transportation landscape in Ellettsville necessitates careful consideration. The ability to drive or rely on a caregiver is crucial. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, they come with associated costs and require pre-planning.

Potential residents should research the specific healthcare providers they intend to use, noting their location and the ease of access from Ellettsville. Confirming insurance coverage for medical transportation is essential.

In conclusion, Ellettsville offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and consideration for those with lung cancer concerns. Weighing these factors, alongside the town's other appealing attributes, will allow you to make an informed decision about moving to Ellettsville and prioritizing your healthcare needs.