46750, Huntington, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46750, Huntington, Indiana is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.33 percent of residents in 46750 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Huntington Hospital with a distance of 1.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46750

The quaint city of Huntington, Indiana, nestled in the heart of the Midwest, offers a tapestry of small-town charm and burgeoning opportunities. For those considering a move to Huntington (ZIP code 46750), evaluating the overall health score is paramount. This score, a holistic assessment of healthcare access, considers factors beyond the availability of medical facilities, encompassing the ease and efficiency of transportation to these vital resources. This detailed analysis explores the commute to healthcare within 46750, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services.

Huntington County Hospital, the primary healthcare provider for the region, anchors the healthcare landscape. Its central location is a significant advantage, but the surrounding transportation infrastructure dictates the overall health score. The ability to reach the hospital, specialists, and other medical appointments quickly and reliably is a critical determinant of well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation in Huntington is the personal vehicle. Commuting to healthcare facilities primarily relies on a network of well-maintained roads. The major artery is US-24, which bisects the city, providing swift access to the hospital from both east and west. Traffic flow is generally manageable, but rush hour can slightly increase travel times.

For those residing in the northern reaches of 46750, accessing the hospital involves navigating through residential streets and connecting with US-24 or State Road 9. The drive typically remains within a 10-15 minute window, assuming average traffic conditions. Residents in the southern portion of the ZIP code can utilize State Road 37, which links to US-24, offering a similar commute duration.

The efficiency of these roadways directly impacts the overall health score. Shorter, predictable drive times reduce stress, improve the chances of arriving on time for appointments, and are especially crucial in medical emergencies. Road conditions, including seasonal maintenance and weather-related disruptions, are essential considerations.

**Public Transit Options:**

Huntington Area Transportation (HATS) provides public transit services within the city. While HATS offers a valuable service for those without personal vehicles, its routes and frequency can be a limiting factor in healthcare access. Currently, HATS operates on fixed routes, which might not always directly serve all medical facilities.

The accessibility of HATS is a key factor. While HATS vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, the limited route coverage necessitates careful planning. Riders may need to transfer between routes or rely on walking to reach their final destination.

The schedule and frequency of HATS are critical. Waiting times between buses can be significant, potentially adding considerable time to the commute to healthcare. The overall health score is influenced by the availability and efficiency of public transit, especially for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

The ride-share market in Huntington is still developing, with limited availability of services like Uber and Lyft. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability and cost can vary significantly, impacting healthcare access. The reliability of ride-share services is crucial for timely appointments, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who cannot drive themselves.

Medical transport services are also available, primarily for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, offer transportation for medical appointments, dialysis, or other medical needs. These services are essential for those with limited mobility or other health conditions that prevent them from using public transit or driving.

The cost and availability of medical transport services are critical considerations. The overall health score is influenced by the availability of these specialized services and their affordability.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 46750 reflects a balanced assessment. While the primary healthcare provider is centrally located and accessible via major roadways, the limitations of public transit and the nascent ride-share market impact the score.

The score is also influenced by the availability of medical transport services for those with specific needs. The ease of reaching specialists, dentists, and other healthcare providers is also a key component. The overall health score acknowledges the importance of convenient, reliable, and affordable transportation to healthcare facilities.

**Moving to Huntington: A Holistic Perspective:**

For those considering moving to Huntington, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is paramount. The proximity of the hospital and the ease of driving on major roadways are positive factors. However, the limitations of public transit and the evolving ride-share landscape require careful consideration.

Future improvements in public transit, an expansion of ride-share services, and the availability of affordable medical transport options would significantly enhance the overall health score. Prospective residents should research their specific healthcare needs and assess the available transportation options accordingly.

The overall health score is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. By evaluating the transportation infrastructure, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and contribute to a healthier Huntington.