46939, Kewanna, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46939, Kewanna, Indiana is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.00 percent of residents in 46939 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Woodlawn Hospital with a distance of 11.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Kewanna, Indiana (ZIP Code 46939)

The overall health score for residents of Kewanna, Indiana, ZIP code 46939, reflects a complex interplay between healthcare access and the available transportation options. This write-up analyzes the current state of affairs, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking healthcare in this rural community. The evaluation aims to inform prospective residents considering moving to Kewanna, offering insights into the practicalities of maintaining their well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities. In Kewanna, this often translates to relying on personal vehicles, with the primary arteries for travel being Indiana State Road 17 (SR-17) and Indiana State Road 14 (SR-14). These roads, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions that impact travel times.

The nearest hospitals and larger medical centers are located in surrounding towns and cities. For example, Logansport, approximately 30 miles southeast, houses Logansport Memorial Hospital. Reaching Logansport typically involves a drive of around 40-50 minutes via SR-17 South and US-35 South. Rochester, about 15 miles east, offers Woodlawn Hospital, reachable in approximately 20-30 minutes using SR-14 East. Plymouth, further east, presents another option, with Saint Joseph Health System – Plymouth Hospital. This is a 35-45-minute drive, again utilizing SR-14.

The time required to access these facilities is a critical factor in the overall health score. Longer travel times can delay treatment, particularly in emergencies, and can also contribute to increased stress and inconvenience for routine appointments. The quality of healthcare access significantly impacts the health outcomes of Kewanna residents.

Public transportation options are limited in Kewanna. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, which poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The absence of readily available public transportation significantly hinders healthcare access for a segment of the population.

The lack of public transit necessitates exploring alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some surrounding areas, but their availability in Kewanna is inconsistent and may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services are significant considerations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services often cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or who cannot drive. The cost of these services, however, can be a barrier for some, and the availability may be limited depending on the specific needs and insurance coverage.

The accessibility of healthcare is not solely dependent on physical transportation. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with healthcare providers, has expanded in recent years. Telehealth offers a valuable alternative for routine appointments and follow-up care, potentially reducing the need for travel. However, telehealth access is contingent upon reliable internet connectivity, which can be a challenge in some rural areas like Kewanna.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is a crucial aspect of healthcare access. Public transportation, when available, is mandated to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of a robust public transit system in Kewanna leaves a gap in accessible transportation options. Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers are often equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but the availability of accessible vehicles can vary.

The overall health score for Kewanna, Indiana, ZIP code 46939, is influenced by several interconnected factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transport services all contribute to the overall picture. The geographic isolation of Kewanna and the distances to healthcare facilities increase the importance of effective transportation solutions.

The availability of telehealth services, while promising, is limited by internet connectivity challenges. The economic factors, including the cost of transportation and healthcare, also play a role in the overall health score. The affordability of healthcare access is a critical consideration for residents.

For individuals considering moving to Kewanna, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Those who are reliant on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. The health and well-being of Kewanna residents are inextricably linked to the accessibility of healthcare, and transportation plays a vital role in ensuring that access.

The overall health score for Kewanna reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. This includes exploring options for expanding public transportation, enhancing the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the use of telehealth. Addressing the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access is crucial for supporting the health and well-being of the Kewanna community.