46931, Fulton, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46931, Fulton, Indiana is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.16 percent of residents in 46931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Woodlawn Hospital with a distance of 8.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46931 (Fulton, Indiana)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Fulton, Indiana (ZIP code 46931), the ease with which residents can reach medical services significantly impacts their overall well-being. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions, culminating in an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the accessibility of healthcare within this rural setting. Considering a move to Fulton? Understanding these factors is crucial.

The primary mode of transportation in Fulton is the personal vehicle. Navigating the area relies heavily on the network of state highways and county roads. Residents typically utilize **State Road 25** for north-south travel, connecting Fulton to Rochester and Logansport. **State Road 17** offers east-west passage, linking the town to Argos and other communities. County roads, such as **County Road 300 North** and **County Road 100 East**, provide crucial access within the county.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the health score. The closest hospital, **Woodlawn Hospital** in Rochester, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via State Road 25. This relatively short commute offers reasonable healthcare access for emergency situations and routine appointments. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger regional medical centers.

Logansport, about a 30-40 minute drive south on State Road 25, hosts **Logansport Memorial Hospital** and offers a wider array of specialists. Indianapolis, a major healthcare hub, is approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive, requiring travel on State Road 25, connecting to **US 31** and then to **I-65**. This longer commute presents challenges for those needing frequent specialized care or facing mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Fulton are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The lack of regular bus routes or readily available public transportation options is a major concern, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While no formal public transit system exists within Fulton, the **Area 5 Agency on Aging** may offer limited transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services are often demand-response, requiring advance booking and may be subject to geographic limitations. The availability and reliability of these services are critical factors in assessing healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not guaranteed in Fulton. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments can be unreliable and expensive, especially for those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available but may require prior arrangements. Companies specializing in medical transport, such as **Care Ride** or **FirstMed Transportation**, operate in the region. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, costs associated with medical transport can be substantial.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is a crucial consideration. While specific details on the ADA compliance of all transportation options are unavailable, it is important to consider the accessibility of vehicles, facilities, and routes. The absence of readily available accessible transportation options further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

The healthcare landscape within Fulton itself includes local clinics and physician offices. These local resources provide essential primary care and routine medical services. Access to these local facilities is generally convenient, enhancing the overall health score. However, the availability of specialized medical services within Fulton is limited, necessitating travel to larger regional centers.

The economic factors influencing transportation and healthcare access are significant. The cost of owning and operating a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can be a substantial financial burden. The availability of affordable transportation options is crucial for ensuring that residents can access the healthcare they need, regardless of their income level.

The physical environment of Fulton, including road conditions and weather patterns, also impacts transportation. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can make driving hazardous, increasing travel times and potentially limiting access to healthcare. The condition of local roads and highways is another factor affecting the safety and efficiency of transportation.

The demographics of Fulton, including age distribution and disability prevalence, influence the demand for transportation and healthcare services. The aging population and the presence of individuals with disabilities necessitate accessible and reliable transportation options. The availability of healthcare services tailored to the specific needs of these populations is also crucial.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Fulton (ZIP code 46931) reflects a mixed picture. While local primary care is readily accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but these services are often expensive and may be unreliable. The drive times to regional medical centers can be significant, especially for specialized care.

Considering these factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in Fulton, Indiana, is **moderate**. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Positive:** Relatively short drive times to local clinics and primary care providers.
* **Negative:** Limited public transit options, reliance on personal vehicles, and longer drive times to specialized care.
* **Neutral:** Availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, but with limitations.

To improve the health score, efforts should focus on:

* **Enhancing Public Transit:** Exploring options for expanding public transit services, particularly for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
* **Supporting Ride-Sharing:** Facilitating the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services.
* **Promoting Medical Transportation:** Ensuring the accessibility and affordability of medical transportation services.
* **Improving Road Infrastructure:** Maintaining and improving road conditions to ensure safe and efficient travel.
* **Healthcare Expansion:** Supporting initiatives to bring specialized medical services closer to Fulton.

By addressing these areas, Fulton can enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents. For those considering moving to Fulton, understanding these transportation and healthcare access dynamics is essential for making informed decisions.