46759, Keystone, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46759, Keystone, Indiana is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.15 percent of residents in 46759 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Regional Medical Center with a distance of 9.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46759

ZIP Code 46759, encompassing the charming town of Keystone, Indiana, presents a unique tapestry of healthcare access challenges and opportunities. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is paramount to assessing the overall health score for residents. This analysis delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture for prospective residents considering moving to Keystone, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

Keystone's geographical location, nestled amidst rolling farmland, significantly influences the landscape of healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are located in Fort Wayne, a city approximately 30 miles to the northeast. This distance, while seemingly manageable, translates into considerable travel time, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. The primary roadways connecting Keystone to Fort Wayne are US-24 and IN-37. US-24, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers a relatively direct route, but can experience congestion, particularly near the Fort Wayne city limits. IN-37, a north-south state road, provides an alternative, though it may involve navigating smaller towns and potentially encountering slower speeds.

Drive times to Fort Wayne medical facilities fluctuate based on traffic and the specific destination. A typical commute to a hospital like Parkview Regional Medical Center via US-24 could range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day. The same trip via IN-37 might take a similar amount of time, potentially slightly longer due to lower speed limits and more frequent stops. Residents must factor in these travel times when scheduling appointments, considering potential delays, and planning for emergencies.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 46759 and to Fort Wayne are limited. The primary provider in the area is the City of Fort Wayne's public transit system, Citilink. While Citilink offers extensive routes within Fort Wayne, its services to Keystone are virtually non-existent. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car, particularly seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of regular bus routes necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, placing an additional burden on residents.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of existing public transit is a crucial consideration. Citilink buses are generally equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the lack of routes serving Keystone means that residents requiring ADA-compliant transportation must find alternative solutions to reach the nearest Citilink stops, further complicating their healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, though their availability and cost vary. The presence of these services in Keystone is less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Residents may experience longer wait times and higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The financial burden of relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be substantial, particularly for low-income individuals.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized option for individuals requiring assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the Fort Wayne area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves or require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, these services often come with significant costs, and insurance coverage may vary. The availability of these services in Keystone and the surrounding areas is generally adequate, but residents must plan in advance and understand the associated costs.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 46759, concerning healthcare access, is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While Keystone offers a tranquil lifestyle, the dependence on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transit pose significant challenges. The drive times to Fort Wayne medical facilities, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create barriers to timely and convenient healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Keystone, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully consider the challenges associated with accessing healthcare. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport, all of which come with associated costs and potential logistical difficulties.

The overall health score for Keystone residents would benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include exploring the feasibility of extending Citilink routes to serve Keystone, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments, or promoting the availability of medical transport services. Community-based programs that provide transportation assistance to seniors and individuals with disabilities could also significantly improve healthcare access and enhance the overall health score.

Furthermore, the development of telehealth services could play a vital role in mitigating transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. Expanding telehealth infrastructure and promoting its adoption among Keystone residents could significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or limited transportation options.

In conclusion, while Keystone offers a desirable quality of life, its healthcare access landscape presents challenges related to transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a moderately impacted health score. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the potential logistical and financial implications of accessing healthcare in Keystone. Addressing these challenges through strategic initiatives and community-based programs is essential to improving healthcare access and enhancing the overall health score for all residents.