46765, Leo, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46765, Leo, Indiana is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.53 percent of residents in 46765 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Va N. Indiana Healthcare System - Ft. Wayne with a distance of 10.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46765 (Leo, Indiana)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the landscape of healthcare access in ZIP code 46765, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. For residents of Leo, Indiana, the journey to receive medical care is often a drive, shaping their overall health score. Understanding the commute to healthcare is paramount when considering moving to Leo or assessing the well-being of its current residents.

ZIP code 46765, encompassing the town of Leo-Cedarville, is primarily served by Fort Wayne, Indiana, for its major medical facilities. This creates a dependency on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs. The primary arteries connecting Leo to Fort Wayne are State Road 1 (SR 1) and US-24. Traveling south on SR 1 offers a relatively direct route, though it can be susceptible to traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. US-24 provides an alternative, often involving a more circuitous path but potentially offering relief from congestion. The drive, typically taking between 20 to 30 minutes, depends on the destination and traffic conditions.

The availability of public transportation in this area is limited, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Fort Wayne Citilink bus system, while serving the broader Fort Wayne area, has minimal presence in Leo. This lack of public transportation creates a significant barrier, especially for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of readily available public transit means that reliance on personal vehicles is the norm, further emphasizing the importance of assessing transportation options.

While Citilink does not directly serve Leo, it is essential to acknowledge its ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. Citilink buses are equipped with ramps and lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the lack of routes extending into Leo negates these features for residents of 46765. The absence of a robust public transit system exacerbates the challenge of healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, but their availability and affordability in a suburban area like Leo are not guaranteed. The cost of a ride-share to Fort Wayne medical facilities can be substantial, representing a significant financial burden for some residents. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is also a factor to consider. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution, it is not a universally accessible or affordable option for all residents.

Specialized medical transportation services are available, offering a dedicated solution for individuals requiring assistance. These services, often operated by private companies, provide door-to-door transportation for medical appointments and other healthcare-related needs. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer services in the Fort Wayne area, potentially extending to Leo. These services are particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. However, medical transportation services often come with a higher price tag than other options, and their availability may be limited.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 46765 is negatively impacted by the dependence on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. The drive times to Fort Wayne medical facilities, while generally manageable, are still a factor. The absence of a robust public transit system and the potential cost and availability challenges of ride-sharing services and medical transportation create barriers to healthcare access for many residents.

The impact of transportation limitations extends beyond the practicalities of getting to appointments. It can also contribute to increased stress and anxiety, particularly for those with chronic health conditions or limited resources. The difficulty in accessing healthcare can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially exacerbating health problems. This can have a ripple effect, impacting the overall health and well-being of the community.

For those considering moving to Leo, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the town offers a peaceful, suburban environment, the dependence on personal vehicles for healthcare access is a significant consideration. Individuals and families should carefully assess their transportation needs and resources when evaluating the suitability of 46765 as a place to live.

To improve the health score, several strategies could be considered. Expanding public transportation options, even with limited routes, could significantly improve healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Promoting and supporting medical transportation services, ensuring their affordability and availability, is another crucial step.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 46765 is moderate, with the primary challenge being the reliance on personal vehicles. The drive times to Fort Wayne medical facilities, while not excessive, are a factor, and the lack of public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers for some residents. Improving transportation options, such as expanding public transit, subsidizing ride-sharing, and supporting medical transportation, is essential to enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health score for the community. This information is critical for those considering moving to Leo and for the community's ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents.