46910, Akron, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46910, Akron, Indiana is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.12 percent of residents in 46910 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 24.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Akron, Indiana (ZIP Code 46910)

Akron, Indiana, a charming town nestled in Fulton County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. Our focus is on healthcare access, specifically the ease of commuting to medical facilities from the 46910 ZIP code. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to determine an “Overall Health Score” reflecting the accessibility of essential healthcare services. The score will also indirectly inform those considering moving to Akron.

The cornerstone of our assessment is the drive-time analysis. Residents of Akron primarily rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The most direct route to significant healthcare providers involves navigating **State Road 19** and **U.S. Route 31**.

The nearest hospital, **Woodlawn Hospital** in Rochester, is a relatively short drive, typically under 20 minutes, depending on traffic. This accessibility is a significant positive factor. Further afield, the **Parkview Regional Medical Center** in Fort Wayne, a more comprehensive facility, requires a drive of approximately 60-75 minutes, primarily via **U.S. Route 31** and the **U.S. Route 30** corridor. This longer commute time, while manageable, introduces a degree of inconvenience, particularly in emergencies.

The public transit landscape in Akron, and indeed much of Fulton County, is limited. There is no established fixed-route bus service directly serving Akron. The primary public transportation option is a demand-response system, typically operated by the county or a regional provider. Information regarding routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features would need to be confirmed with the Fulton County government or relevant transit authority. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Overall Health Score, especially for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability and response times can vary. Their presence provides an alternative transportation option, particularly for non-emergency medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and the reliability of service in a rural area like Akron may be less consistent than in more urban environments. Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patient transport, also exist. These services, often operated by private companies, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with medical needs. The availability and cost of these services are critical factors in determining the Overall Health Score.

The availability of healthcare providers within Akron itself is also a crucial factor. The presence of local clinics, family doctors, and specialists reduces the need for lengthy commutes. The number and scope of these local healthcare providers will influence the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score is further influenced by the presence of pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and other ancillary healthcare services within the 46910 ZIP code or in close proximity. The ability to quickly access medication, immediate medical attention, and diagnostic services enhances the overall health of the community.

The overall assessment considers the accessibility of various healthcare services. This includes primary care physicians, specialists, emergency services, dental care, mental health services, and pharmacies. The availability of these services within a reasonable commuting distance directly impacts the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score also considers the demographics of the community. Factors such as age, income levels, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence the healthcare needs of the population. The score will reflect the extent to which the transportation options meet the needs of these diverse demographics.

The Overall Health Score will reflect the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Akron, Indiana, in accessing healthcare. The score will provide a comprehensive picture of the transportation-related barriers and facilitators to healthcare access, ultimately influencing the overall health and well-being of the community.

The Overall Health Score is not simply a numerical value; it is a nuanced assessment reflecting the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. It considers the various transportation options available, the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of local healthcare providers, and the demographics of the community.

The Overall Health Score is an important metric for anyone considering moving to Akron. It provides a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape and the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing medical services. This information is essential for making informed decisions about one's health and well-being.

The analysis of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is crucial to understanding healthcare access. Each mode of transportation presents its own advantages and disadvantages, influencing the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

The Overall Health Score for Akron, Indiana (ZIP Code 46910) will be determined by weighing the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the degree to which residents can readily access the healthcare services they need, considering the available transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the presence of local healthcare providers.

The final Overall Health Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can change over time. Changes in transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare providers, and the demographics of the community can all influence the score.

The Overall Health Score is a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It provides a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, allowing for informed decision-making and the development of strategies to improve healthcare access. It is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Akron.

The Overall Health Score highlights the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in Akron. This includes initiatives to enhance public transit options, expand the availability of ride-sharing services, and support the growth of local healthcare providers.

The Overall Health Score also underscores the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities in accessing healthcare. These challenges include long travel distances, limited public transit options, and the scarcity of healthcare providers.

The Overall Health Score is a valuable tool for assessing the overall health of the community. By considering the various factors that influence healthcare access, the score provides a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Akron, Indiana.