46064, Pendleton, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46064, Pendleton, Indiana is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.66 percent of residents in 46064 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Anderson with a distance of 7.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Pendleton, IN (ZIP Code 46064)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Pendleton, Indiana (ZIP code 46064), necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare. A critical component of this assessment is the ease and efficiency with which individuals can *transport* themselves to medical facilities. This write-up delves into the various *transportation* options available, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical *transport* services, ultimately painting a picture of *healthcare access* for those living in and *moving to Pendleton*.

Pendleton, a charming town nestled in Madison County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. The town’s relative proximity to larger urban centers like Indianapolis offers a wider array of specialized medical services, but this advantage is often offset by the *transportation* complexities involved in navigating the surrounding roadways.

**Driving Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of *transportation* to medical appointments. The most direct route to Indianapolis, where the majority of specialized medical care is concentrated, involves utilizing I-69 South. This major interstate highway provides a relatively smooth and efficient journey, typically taking between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Local roads like State Road 38 and State Road 67 also play a crucial role in connecting Pendleton residents to healthcare providers in nearby towns such as Anderson and Greenfield.

Traveling to Anderson, home to Community Hospital Anderson, usually takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes via State Road 38 East. Greenfield, which offers Hancock Regional Hospital, is accessible via State Road 67 South, with a drive time of around 20 to 25 minutes. These shorter drive times to nearby hospitals are a significant advantage for residents requiring immediate medical attention.

However, it's important to consider the impact of peak traffic hours, especially on I-69. Commuting during rush hour can significantly extend travel times, potentially delaying access to crucial medical care. Furthermore, while these drive times are generally manageable, they can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not own a vehicle.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Pendleton are limited, which significantly impacts the overall health score. The Madison County Transit System (MCTS) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. The MCTS primarily focuses on local *transportation* within Madison County, with limited connections to Indianapolis.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While the MCTS strives to offer accessible services, the limited scope of its operations and the lack of direct routes to major medical facilities in Indianapolis present significant barriers to *healthcare access*. The absence of a robust public *transportation* system leaves a considerable gap in *transportation* options, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative *transportation* solution, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services in Pendleton can vary. While they are generally accessible, the cost of a ride to Indianapolis or even to nearby hospitals can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

Medical *transport* services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a vital service for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs that require specialized assistance. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients during their journeys. While these services offer a crucial lifeline, they are often expensive and may require advance booking, potentially limiting their availability for urgent medical situations.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for *healthcare access* in Pendleton, IN (ZIP code 46064) reflects a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses. The proximity to Indianapolis and nearby hospitals offers access to a wide range of medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public *transportation* options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical *transport* services create barriers to *healthcare access*.

The drive times, while generally manageable, are susceptible to traffic congestion, particularly on I-69. The limited public *transportation* options and the cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for those who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. The availability of medical *transport* services provides a crucial safety net, but their cost and the need for advance booking can create limitations.

**Considerations for Moving to Pendleton**

For individuals and families *moving to Pendleton*, a thorough assessment of *healthcare access* is essential. Those relying on public *transportation* or ride-sharing should carefully evaluate the availability and cost of these services. Individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs should investigate the availability of medical *transport* services and their associated costs.

Furthermore, prospective residents should consider the potential impact of traffic congestion on I-69 and plan accordingly. While Pendleton offers a desirable quality of life, the *transportation* challenges associated with accessing healthcare should be carefully weighed when making a decision about *moving to Pendleton*.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

Improving the overall health score for Pendleton residents requires addressing the identified *transportation* challenges. This could involve exploring options to enhance public *transportation*, such as expanding the MCTS routes or partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized *transportation* to medical appointments.

Investing in initiatives that promote carpooling or car-sharing programs could also help to alleviate the burden of *transportation* costs. Furthermore, educating residents about the available *transportation* options and providing resources to navigate the healthcare system can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

By addressing these challenges and working to improve *healthcare access* through enhanced *transportation* options, Pendleton can create a healthier and more supportive environment for all its residents. This commitment to improving *healthcare access* is crucial for ensuring the well-being of those *moving to Pendleton* and for fostering a thriving community.