46760, Kimmell, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46760, Kimmell, Indiana is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.77 percent of residents in 46760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Whitley Hospital with a distance of 13.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46760

The pursuit of well-being is a journey, and the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 46760, encompassing the charming community of Kimmell, Indiana, can access healthcare significantly impacts their overall health score. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities, considering factors from drive times to public transit options, and ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for those living and *moving to Kimmell*.

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility in Kimmell is the reliance on personal vehicles. Driving is the dominant mode of *transportation*, and understanding the road network is crucial. The core of the area is served by State Road 5, a north-south artery that connects Kimmell to larger towns and cities. Heading south, State Road 5 provides access to the healthcare facilities in Warsaw, approximately a 25-30 minute drive. Northward, the same route leads to facilities in Ligonier, a slightly shorter commute of around 15-20 minutes.

Secondary roads, such as County Road 400N and County Road 11A, offer alternative routes, though they are generally slower and less direct. These roads are often subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during winter months, which can add significant time to travel. The lack of major interstate highways directly serving Kimmell means that longer trips, such as those to Fort Wayne (approximately an hour's drive), require navigating a combination of state roads and county roads, potentially increasing travel time and stress, especially during emergencies.

Public *transportation* options in this rural setting are limited. There is no established bus route or public transit system that directly serves Kimmell. This lack of public *transportation* presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive due to age or disability, or are facing financial constraints. This absence directly impacts the overall health score, potentially isolating individuals from vital medical services. The nearest public transit options would likely involve traveling to larger towns like Warsaw or Fort Wayne, which would require a combination of ride-sharing services or reliance on friends and family for *transportation*.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Kimmell itself might be limited. Availability and response times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments could be unreliable, especially for scheduled appointments. This lack of consistent access to ride-sharing further diminishes the overall health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical needs, provide an alternative. These services, such as medical transport companies, offer scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in the immediate vicinity of Kimmell may be limited, and the cost can be a barrier for some individuals. Booking in advance and coordinating with the medical facility is essential, but the services can provide a crucial link to *healthcare access*.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is a critical component of the overall health score. The response time of ambulances and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to Kimmell is a crucial factor. The proximity of the nearest hospitals and emergency rooms (ERs) in Warsaw and Ligonier, accessible via State Road 5, is essential. While the drive times are relatively manageable, emergency situations require immediate response, and any delay can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of *transportation* options is another crucial consideration. Given the lack of public transit, the primary concern is the accessibility of medical facilities themselves. Ensuring that medical offices and hospitals are ADA-compliant, with accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms, is essential for individuals with disabilities. This also extends to the availability of accessible parking and the ability to navigate the facilities with mobility aids.

The overall health score for residents of Kimmell, Indiana (46760), is moderately impacted by the challenges associated with *healthcare access*. While the proximity of healthcare facilities in Warsaw and Ligonier is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public *transportation* options present significant hurdles. The absence of reliable public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services can isolate individuals, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a personal vehicle.

The availability of medical *transportation* services offers a potential solution, but the cost and availability of these services can be a barrier. The emergency medical services response time is a critical factor, and the ADA compliance of medical facilities is essential. For those *moving to Kimmell*, understanding these challenges is vital for planning and ensuring adequate *healthcare access*.

The overall health score for Kimmell could be improved by initiatives that enhance *transportation* options. This might include advocating for the expansion of ride-sharing services, exploring partnerships with medical *transportation* providers, or even investigating the feasibility of a demand-response public transit system that caters to the needs of the community. Furthermore, promoting community awareness of available resources and support networks is essential to improve *healthcare access* and overall well-being.