46150, Manilla, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46150, Manilla, Indiana is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.73 percent of residents in 46150 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Major Hospital with a distance of 9.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46150 (Manilla, Indiana)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 46150, encompassing the town of Manilla, Indiana, is significantly influenced by the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up assesses the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering various transportation options and their associated challenges. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Manilla or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on overall well-being.

Manilla, a small rural community, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle, making drive times a critical factor in healthcare access. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing services may not be readily available. These limitations directly affect the health score, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The health score will be influenced by the efficiency of the transportation infrastructure, the availability of alternative transport, and the proximity of healthcare facilities.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary routes for accessing healthcare from Manilla are via Indiana State Road 44 (SR-44) and US-52. SR-44 provides a direct east-west connection, while US-52 runs north-south. These roadways are essential arteries for transportation within the region. The nearest hospitals and major medical centers are located in nearby cities like Rushville, Shelbyville, and Greenfield. Drive times to these facilities vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination.

To Rush Memorial Hospital in Rushville, the drive is approximately 15-20 minutes via SR-44. This is a relatively short commute, offering reasonable healthcare access for residents. Shelby Memorial Hospital in Shelbyville is accessible in about 30-40 minutes, primarily via SR-44 and US-52. This slightly longer drive time could pose a challenge for urgent medical needs. Greenfield, home to Hancock Regional Hospital, is about a 45-60 minute drive, again utilizing SR-44 and US-52. This longer commute highlights the potential for increased travel time in emergency situations.

The condition of these roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and safety. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can make travel hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. Road construction and traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can also increase commute times. These factors must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options within and around Manilla are extremely limited. The primary provider for the region is the Southeastern Indiana Rural Transit System (SEIRTS). However, SEIRTS operates on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available for residents of Rush County, including Manilla, but it is not a fixed-route system. Therefore, it is not a reliable option for immediate medical needs.

SEIRTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is crucial for individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling requirements and potential wait times limit its effectiveness. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the health score for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This creates a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for the elderly and individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed, and availability can fluctuate. The rural nature of Manilla and the surrounding areas may result in longer wait times or limited service coverage. This uncertainty reduces the reliability of ride-sharing as a primary means of healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance services and specialized medical transport companies, are available for non-emergency and emergency situations. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be subject to factors like insurance coverage and the specific medical needs of the patient. The cost of these services and the potential for delays can negatively impact the overall health score.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities directly influences the health score. While Manilla itself does not have a hospital, residents have access to Rush Memorial Hospital in Rushville, Shelby Memorial Hospital in Shelbyville, and Hancock Regional Hospital in Greenfield. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers in these nearby cities is a positive factor.

However, the drive times to these facilities, as discussed earlier, can be a significant barrier. The lack of readily available transportation options exacerbates this challenge. The overall health score is further affected by the availability of urgent care clinics, pharmacies, and other essential healthcare services within a reasonable distance. Access to these services is critical for maintaining good health and addressing immediate medical needs.

**Impact on the Health Score:**

The overall health score for ZIP code 46150 is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, creates barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while not excessive, can be a concern, particularly in emergencies.

The lack of readily available transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles. This can lead to delayed medical care, missed appointments, and reduced access to preventative services. The overall health score is therefore negatively impacted by these transportation limitations.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

To improve the health score, several strategies could be implemented. Enhancing public transportation options, such as expanding SEIRTS services or exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies, could significantly improve healthcare access. Providing transportation assistance programs for low-income residents and the elderly could also be beneficial.

Encouraging the development of telehealth services and expanding the availability of healthcare providers in the Manilla area could reduce the need for travel. Promoting community awareness of available transportation resources and educating residents on how to access healthcare services is also crucial.

When considering moving to Manilla, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Understanding the limitations of transportation options and the drive times to healthcare facilities is essential for making an informed decision. The overall health score is influenced by the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, and this is a critical factor in evaluating the quality of life in this community.