47525, Derby, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47525, Derby, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.64 percent of residents in 47525 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Derby, Indiana (ZIP Code 47525)

The journey to comprehensive lung cancer care is often a complex one, fraught with emotional and physical challenges. Adding to this burden is the practical reality of accessing specialized medical services. For residents of Derby, Indiana (ZIP code 47525), understanding the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access is crucial. This write-up offers a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on receiving timely and effective care. It is designed to aid potential residents considering moving to Derby, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access.

Derby, nestled in Perry County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The area’s rural nature influences the availability and practicality of different transportation methods. Unlike bustling urban centers, Derby residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes, including travel to healthcare appointments. This reliance underscores the importance of assessing drive times and the condition of local roadways.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare facilities from Derby is State Road 66. This east-west thoroughfare connects to larger cities where specialized cancer care is available. Traveling eastward on State Road 66 leads to Tell City, approximately a 20-minute drive. Here, residents can access Perry County Memorial Hospital, which offers basic medical services and potential referrals to specialists. The drive is generally straightforward, though traffic can be a factor during peak hours.

Further afield, a journey to Evansville, approximately an hour’s drive via State Road 66 and eventually Interstate 64, opens up a wider array of healthcare options. Evansville is home to major hospitals like Deaconess Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, both of which offer comprehensive cancer centers. These centers provide advanced diagnostic tools, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. The drive, though longer, offers a more comprehensive scope of care, crucial for lung cancer patients.

Another option involves traveling west on State Road 66, connecting to State Road 37. This route provides access to Owensboro, Kentucky, roughly a 1-hour and 15-minute drive. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital offers a robust cancer program. This offers an alternative for those seeking care outside of Evansville, providing another avenue for treatment and second opinions.

Public transportation options in Derby and the surrounding areas are limited. Perry County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, especially individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive due to their health condition.

For individuals requiring ADA-accessible transportation, the options are even more constrained. While some medical transportation services may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles, their availability and cost vary. It is essential for individuals with disabilities to thoroughly investigate these options and confirm accessibility features before relying on them.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Evansville, but their presence in Derby is sporadic and unreliable. Securing a ride to and from medical appointments in Derby might prove challenging, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled outside of standard business hours. The availability of these services should not be considered a primary transportation solution.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized approach. Companies like CareRide and MedRide specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and luggage. However, these services come at a cost, and availability needs to be confirmed in advance. Their suitability depends on the patient’s needs and financial resources.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Derby, Indiana, reflects the transportation challenges faced by residents seeking lung cancer care. The score is influenced by several factors, including drive times, the limited availability of public transportation, the inconsistent presence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles.

The primary challenge is the geographical isolation. Derby residents must travel significant distances to access specialized cancer care. This can lead to increased stress, fatigue, and financial burden, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

The lack of public transportation exacerbates these challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This can create significant barriers to accessing timely medical care. The limited availability of ride-sharing services further compounds the problem.

The reliance on personal vehicles presents its own set of challenges. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees can add to the financial strain of cancer treatment. Road conditions and traffic can also impact drive times, potentially causing delays and increased stress.

For those considering moving to Derby, a thorough assessment of these transportation factors is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and resources. They should also research the availability and cost of medical transportation services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Derby, Indiana, is therefore not a simple numerical value but a complex assessment. It highlights the critical importance of transportation in the overall healthcare experience for lung cancer patients. While Derby offers a peaceful and scenic environment, prospective residents must acknowledge the challenges of accessing specialized medical care and plan accordingly.

The score underscores the need for proactive planning. This includes identifying potential transportation solutions, understanding the costs involved, and establishing a support network to assist with transportation needs. This proactive approach is critical for ensuring timely access to care and improving the overall quality of life for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer.

In conclusion, while Derby offers a desirable lifestyle for some, the transportation landscape presents significant hurdles for lung cancer patients. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors and prioritize their healthcare access needs when making their moving decision. The “Lung Cancer Score” serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not merely about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach them safely, reliably, and affordably.