47585, Stendal, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47585, Stendal, Indiana is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.81 percent of residents in 47585 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 13.86 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stendal, Indiana (ZIP Code 47585)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, is a complex equation. It involves not just the quality of medical care but also the ease and efficiency with which that care can be accessed. This write-up examines the transportation landscape in and around Stendal, Indiana (ZIP Code 47585), assessing its impact on healthcare access for individuals potentially facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Our aim is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a composite understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation infrastructure. This information is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Stendal, allowing for informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Stendal, a small community nestled in Pike County, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of personal transportation is the automobile. The availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options are significantly limited compared to more urban areas. This reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the geographical distances to specialized medical facilities, directly influences the Lung Cancer Score.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Stendal is the road network. Residents primarily utilize Indiana State Road 56, a critical east-west artery, and Indiana State Road 231, running north-south. These state roads connect Stendal to larger towns and cities where advanced medical care is available.

The nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Memorial Hospital in Jasper, Indiana. The drive from Stendal to Jasper, typically via State Road 56, is approximately 25 miles and takes around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time is relatively manageable, offering reasonable access to essential medical services.

For more specialized treatment, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to Evansville, Indiana. The journey from Stendal to Evansville, primarily utilizing State Road 56 and US-41, is approximately 60 miles and can take upwards of 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer drive time introduces potential challenges, especially for individuals experiencing fatigue or undergoing frequent treatments.

The condition of the roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact drive times and accessibility. Winter weather, with its potential for snow and ice, can significantly extend travel times and pose safety risks. Regular road maintenance and clear communication about road closures or delays are vital for ensuring consistent access to healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Pike County are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that serves Stendal or provides regular routes to Jasper or Evansville. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without access to a personal vehicle, making healthcare access significantly more challenging.

For those who cannot drive, or who are unable to drive, the absence of public transit creates a substantial barrier. This is particularly concerning for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, as they may experience side effects like fatigue, nausea, and mobility limitations, making driving difficult or impossible.

While there are no dedicated public transit routes, some community-based organizations may offer limited transportation assistance to medical appointments. It is crucial for residents to investigate these local resources and determine their eligibility for such services.

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

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has, in some areas, provided a viable alternative to public transit. However, the availability of these services in Stendal and the surrounding rural areas is limited. Ride-sharing options may be available, but their reliability, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is uncertain. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist patients with mobility issues. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Assessing the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for Stendal (ZIP Code 47585) is significantly influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. The relatively manageable drive time to Jasper for basic care is a positive factor. However, the longer drive to Evansville for specialized treatment, coupled with the absence of robust public transit, ride-sharing limitations, and the cost of medical transport, presents significant challenges.

The score must also consider the potential impact of these transportation barriers on the overall quality of life for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment. Frequent travel, long drive times, and the financial burden of transportation can exacerbate the physical and emotional toll of the disease.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For residents of Stendal, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a reliable transportation plan, including identifying potential drivers (family, friends, or neighbors), exploring medical transportation options, and understanding the limitations of ride-sharing services, is critical.

For those considering moving to Stendal, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is paramount. This includes evaluating the availability of transportation resources, the proximity to specialized medical facilities, and the potential financial implications of transportation costs.

Community initiatives to improve healthcare access are also vital. This could include advocating for the expansion of public transit options, supporting the development of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transportation. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address the transportation challenges and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Stendal reflects the complex interplay of transportation infrastructure and healthcare access. While the community offers a degree of healthcare access, the limitations of transportation options necessitate careful planning and proactive strategies to ensure that individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis can navigate their healthcare journey with as much ease and support as possible. The success of those moving to Stendal, and those who already live there, depends on this.