46917, Camden, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46917, Camden, Indiana is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.27 percent of residents in 46917 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46917 (Camden, Indiana)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 46917, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. A comprehensive analysis considers the accessibility of medical services, specifically evaluating the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation infrastructure. This is particularly relevant for individuals or families **moving to Camden**, Indiana, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The foundation of this evaluation lies in understanding the existing **transportation** landscape. ZIP Code 46917, encompassing the town of Camden, is located in Carroll County, a predominantly rural area. This geographical context significantly influences the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The primary mode of transport is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most direct route to larger healthcare facilities typically involves driving on US-421, a major north-south artery. Depending on the destination, travel times can vary considerably. For instance, reaching Logansport Memorial Hospital, approximately 15 miles north, might take 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This route utilizes US-421 and local roads.

Traveling south towards Kokomo, which offers a wider array of specialist services, requires navigating a combination of US-421 and State Road 26. This journey, covering roughly 25 miles, could consume 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Kokomo.

Accessing Lafayette, home to Franciscan Health Lafayette East, often involves a longer drive. The most common route involves taking State Road 26 west, which then connects to US-231. This trip, spanning approximately 40 miles, could easily take an hour or more, particularly during peak commuting times.

The condition of these roads is generally good, but seasonal weather conditions, such as snow and ice during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety. The absence of significant public transportation options further compounds these challenges, emphasizing the reliance on personal vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reality:**

Public transit options within and around ZIP Code 46917 are extremely limited. Carroll County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This absence significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

The nearest regional public transportation options are located in neighboring counties. The CityBus system in Lafayette, for example, does offer some routes that extend into the surrounding areas, but service frequency and coverage are limited. Furthermore, the practical application of using CityBus for healthcare access from Camden is questionable due to the lengthy travel times and the need for multiple transfers.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for any public transit option. While CityBus strives to meet ADA standards, the limited availability of routes and the extended travel times make this option less viable for residents of 46917.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in rural areas like Camden can be inconsistent. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also significantly increase the cost of transportation. This can create a financial barrier for some residents seeking healthcare.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several providers operate in the region, including those offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or use public transit.

The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their cost and the need for pre-planning can still pose significant challenges. The limited options underscore the importance of considering the potential impact on **healthcare access** when evaluating the overall health score for residents of 46917.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for ZIP Code 46917 is significantly impacted by the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

These challenges disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of convenient and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed medical appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and poorer health outcomes.

The geographical isolation of Camden and the surrounding area further compounds these issues. Residents may need to travel considerable distances to access specialist services, increasing the time commitment and the financial burden associated with healthcare.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving the overall health score for ZIP Code 46917 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, even if it involves a demand-response system or partnerships with existing transportation providers, is crucial. This could include exploring options for subsidized transportation for low-income residents or those with disabilities.

Encouraging the expansion of telehealth services and the development of local healthcare facilities can also improve access to care. Promoting community awareness of available medical transport services and providing financial assistance to help cover transportation costs can also be beneficial.

Ultimately, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 46917 is significantly influenced by the availability and accessibility of transportation options. Addressing the challenges associated with **transportation** is essential to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care, particularly for those **moving to Camden**. This is a critical consideration for anyone evaluating the health and well-being of this community.