46791, Uniondale, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46791, Uniondale, Indiana is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.81 percent of residents in 46791 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkview Huntington Hospital with a distance of 12.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46791 (Uniondale, Indiana)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Uniondale, Indiana (ZIP code 46791) requires a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis will focus specifically on the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents seeking medical care, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone **moving to Uniondale**, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical attention.

The foundation of healthcare access rests on the ability to physically reach medical facilities. In Uniondale, this primarily translates to vehicular travel. The landscape is largely rural, and the primary mode of **transportation** is the personal vehicle. Drive times, therefore, become a critical determinant of the health score.

Uniondale itself has limited healthcare facilities, necessitating travel to surrounding towns and cities. The closest major medical hub is in Fort Wayne, approximately 30 miles to the north. The most direct route involves utilizing US-24 East, a major east-west thoroughfare. Travel time to Fort Wayne can fluctuate significantly based on traffic, typically ranging from 45 minutes to an hour. This drive can be particularly challenging during peak commuting hours.

Another option involves traveling to Huntington, Indiana, roughly 15 miles to the west. This journey primarily utilizes IN-9 North. Drive times to Huntington are considerably shorter, generally taking around 20-30 minutes. While Huntington offers fewer specialized medical services than Fort Wayne, it provides a valuable local option for routine care and urgent needs.

The availability of public transit in Uniondale and the surrounding area is extremely limited. There is no established bus service that directly connects Uniondale to Fort Wayne or Huntington. This presents a significant barrier for residents who lack personal vehicles or are unable to drive. The absence of reliable public transit significantly lowers the health score for those reliant on alternative modes of transportation.

While dedicated public transit is lacking, some limited options exist for those requiring specialized **transportation**. The Huntington County Council on Aging operates a demand-response transportation service within Huntington County. This service, however, has limitations regarding availability and the geographical area it serves. It's designed primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities, and access requires prior registration and scheduling. The service may not be readily available for urgent medical needs.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of any available transportation options is a crucial consideration. Given the limited nature of public transit, ADA-compliant options are severely restricted. The Huntington County Council on Aging’s service is ADA-compliant, offering accessible vehicles. However, the lack of wider public transit options limits accessibility for individuals with disabilities seeking healthcare in Uniondale.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the Fort Wayne and Huntington areas. However, their availability in Uniondale itself is less certain. While a ride could potentially be secured, the waiting times and cost could be substantial, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This factor presents a potential challenge for those lacking alternative transportation options and contributes to a lower health score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are another factor to consider. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic ambulatory transport to advanced life support. These services can be crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing specialized medical attention during transit. However, the cost of medical transport can be considerable, and the availability of specific services may vary.

Several medical transport brands serve the region, including Parkview EMS and Lutheran EMS, which offer ambulance services. For non-emergency transport, there are private companies, such as Senior Home Care by Angels, which provide non-emergency medical transportation. The cost of these services is often covered by insurance, but co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses can still be a burden.

The overall health score for residents of Uniondale, Indiana, is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential difficulties in securing ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation.

The drive times to Fort Wayne, while offering access to a wide range of medical services, can be lengthy and unpredictable, especially during peak traffic. The shorter drive to Huntington provides a more convenient option, but the availability of specialized care is more restricted. The absence of reliable public transit disproportionately affects those without personal vehicles, further exacerbating the challenges.

The cost and availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport are also important considerations. While these options provide alternatives, they can be expensive and may not always be readily available. The lack of readily accessible and affordable transportation options negatively impacts the health score.

For those **moving to Uniondale**, understanding these transportation limitations is essential. Careful consideration should be given to the proximity of medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare. The health score for Uniondale, therefore, reflects a need for improved transportation options and a more accessible healthcare infrastructure to ensure that all residents can receive the medical care they need.