46784, Rome City, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46784, Rome City, Indiana is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.60 percent of residents in 46784 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Noble Hospital with a distance of 5.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46784

The idyllic charm of Rome City, Indiana (ZIP Code 46784), with its serene lakes and close-knit community, often masks the complexities of accessing essential healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents, meticulously examining the transportation landscape that dictates their ability to reach medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those living and considering **moving to Rome City**.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 46784 is the reliance on personal **transportation**. Rome City, nestled in Noble County, is a rural area. The vast majority of residents depend on their vehicles to navigate the region. Drive times to healthcare facilities become a crucial element in the overall health score.

The nearest significant healthcare hub is in Kendallville, approximately a 10-15 minute drive via US-6. This route is generally well-maintained, offering a relatively quick and straightforward passage. However, the presence of traffic, particularly during peak hours, can extend this commute. For specialized care, residents often need to travel to Fort Wayne, a journey of approximately 45-60 minutes. This involves navigating US-6 and, depending on the destination, potentially I-69. This longer commute significantly impacts the health score, as it adds to the time and stress associated with seeking medical attention.

The availability of public **transportation** is limited. The Noble County Council on Aging provides a demand-response service, offering transportation within the county. However, this service is primarily geared towards seniors and individuals with disabilities, and its availability and frequency are limited. There are no fixed-route bus services operating within Rome City or connecting it to neighboring towns. This lack of robust public transit significantly reduces the health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The absence of readily available public transportation underscores the challenges faced by individuals who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. This can lead to delayed medical appointments, missed preventative care, and a decline in overall health outcomes. The health score reflects this disparity, emphasizing the need for alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent. While they offer a potential solution for those without personal vehicles, the cost can be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the response times for ride-sharing services in rural areas can be longer than in urban centers, potentially delaying access to urgent care. This variable availability and potential cost burden further impact the health score.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are available, primarily for patients requiring ambulance or non-emergency medical transport. These services are typically provided by regional providers and are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey to medical appointments. However, these services are often reserved for specific medical needs and may not be a viable option for routine check-ups or preventative care.

The presence of these specialized services does provide a critical safety net, but it does not fully address the broader need for accessible and affordable **transportation** options for all residents. The health score reflects the limitations of these services, acknowledging their importance while highlighting the need for more comprehensive solutions.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 46784 is moderately impacted by the limited options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for many residents. While the presence of specialized medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, it does not fully mitigate the barriers to accessing care.

The drive times to Kendallville and Fort Wayne, while manageable for those with personal vehicles, can still pose challenges, particularly for those with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The longer commute times to Fort Wayne for specialized care contribute to the overall stress and burden associated with seeking medical attention. This impacts the health score, reflecting the need for improved access to specialized services closer to home.

The health score is further diminished by the potential for transportation-related delays. Traffic congestion, inclement weather, and mechanical issues can all disrupt travel plans, potentially leading to missed appointments and delayed care. This underscores the importance of having multiple **transportation** options available to ensure reliable access to healthcare.

The health score also considers the financial implications of healthcare access. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can add to the overall burden of healthcare expenses. This is particularly relevant for low-income residents and those with limited financial resources. The health score reflects the need for affordable and accessible **transportation** options to ensure that financial constraints do not become a barrier to seeking medical care.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 46784 is a complex calculation, influenced by a multitude of factors. While the area offers a relatively safe and pleasant environment, the limitations in **transportation** options significantly impact the ability of residents to access timely and affordable healthcare. This is a critical consideration for anyone **moving to Rome City**, as it directly affects their overall well-being.

To improve the health score, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding the availability and frequency of the Noble County Council on Aging's demand-response service would benefit seniors and individuals with disabilities. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized **transportation** for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Advocating for the expansion of public transit options connecting Rome City to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities would be a significant step towards improving healthcare access. This could involve establishing a fixed-route bus service or partnering with regional transit providers.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of telehealth consultations could reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up care. This would be especially beneficial for residents in rural areas with limited **transportation** options.

Finally, community initiatives that provide volunteer driver programs or carpooling services could help bridge the **transportation** gap and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. These initiatives could be particularly effective in supporting those who are unable to drive or who lack access to reliable **transportation**.

In conclusion, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in 46784 reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with **transportation** in a rural setting. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in **transportation** options present a significant barrier to accessing healthcare. Addressing these challenges through a combination of strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing partnerships, telehealth services, and community-based initiatives is crucial for improving the health and well-being of all residents. The health score serves as a call to action, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to ensure that everyone in Rome City has access to the healthcare they need, when they need it.