47553, Loogootee, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47553, Loogootee, Indiana is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.90 percent of residents in 47553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 20.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Loogootee, Indiana (ZIP Code 47553)

The air in Loogootee, Indiana, a community nestled in the heart of Martin County, carries the scent of rural tranquility. Yet, for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity can quickly transform into a complex landscape of healthcare access challenges. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for 47553, focusing on transportation options to critical medical resources, a vital factor in survival and quality of life. Understanding the nuances of **transportation** infrastructure and available services is paramount for anyone considering **moving to Loogootee** or already residing here and navigating the complexities of **healthcare access**.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. It acknowledges the critical need for timely access to oncology specialists, radiation therapy, diagnostic imaging, and supportive care. The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive assessment, painting a picture of the realities of healthcare access in this specific ZIP code.

The primary artery connecting Loogootee to regional healthcare hubs is US-50, a crucial thoroughfare. Driving east on US-50, the journey to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, the IU Health Bloomington Hospital, is approximately 65 miles, a drive that typically consumes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive, though manageable, can be arduous for patients undergoing treatment, particularly those experiencing fatigue or other side effects. The route utilizes US-50 to Bedford, then transitions to State Road 37, finally merging onto the 46 East towards Bloomington.

Westward on US-50, the drive to the Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, is about 85 miles, taking roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. This route follows US-50 to Washington, then transitions onto US-50 West to US-41 South, eventually arriving at the hospital. This journey presents a more extended commitment, potentially straining patients and caregivers.

Smaller, local healthcare facilities, such as the Daviess Community Hospital in Washington, IN, offer some services, including diagnostic imaging and limited oncology support. The drive to Washington is approximately 20 minutes via US-50. This facility can serve as an initial point of contact and provide some local care, but it is essential to understand that comprehensive cancer treatment often necessitates travel to larger regional centers.

Public transit options within Martin County are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Loogootee or offers routes to the larger healthcare facilities. The absence of a robust public **transportation** network presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. For those seeking to navigate the healthcare landscape without a personal vehicle, the reliance falls heavily on alternatives.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services for scheduled appointments, particularly those requiring precise timing, is a concern. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing, especially for the longer distances to Bloomington or Evansville, can quickly become a financial burden for patients and their families.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available in Loogootee. However, these services are primarily for emergency situations and are not typically used for routine appointments. The use of medical transport for non-emergency travel can be costly and may not be covered by insurance for all types of appointments.

For individuals **moving to Loogootee** and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the assessment reveals a mixed bag. The location offers the peace and quiet of a rural environment, but the **healthcare access** presents significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services, coupled with the lack of public transit, can create stress and logistical hurdles for patients.

The **transportation** landscape directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." The score is lowered by the long drive times to comprehensive cancer centers, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services. It is elevated slightly by the presence of local healthcare facilities offering some services and the availability of emergency medical transport.

The ADA features of any available public transit are non-existent, as there is no public transit. Ride-sharing services may offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but their availability is not guaranteed. Medical transport services are generally equipped to accommodate patients with disabilities.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 47553 highlights the need for careful planning and consideration for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Patients and their families must proactively research **transportation** options, explore potential financial assistance programs to offset **transportation** costs, and establish clear communication with their healthcare providers regarding their **healthcare access** needs.

For those considering **moving to Loogootee**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** capabilities and the availability of support networks is crucial. The choice to live here should be made with a clear understanding of the potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive cancer care.