46958, Mexico, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46958, Mexico, Indiana is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.43 percent of residents in 46958 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dukes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46958

Navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 46958 requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond immediate medical needs. This assessment provides an “Overall Health Score,” acknowledging the crucial role of transportation in accessing essential medical services. The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach various healthcare providers, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The ultimate goal is to empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being.

The foundation of this assessment is built upon the understanding that healthcare access is not merely about the presence of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach them. The score considers the practical realities of getting to appointments, including the time, cost, and convenience associated with different transportation modes. This is especially important for residents with mobility limitations, those without personal vehicles, or those facing financial constraints.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary arteries for transportation within and around 46958 are crucial to healthcare access. Driving remains a dominant mode, and the condition of the roads and the potential for congestion directly impact the Overall Health Score. Residents will likely utilize **US-31** for north-south travel, a major thoroughfare connecting the area to larger cities like Indianapolis. Travel on **US-31** during peak hours can be challenging, potentially adding significant time to appointments.

East-west travel often relies on **State Road 26**, which provides access to healthcare facilities in surrounding communities. While generally less congested than **US-31**, **State Road 26** is a two-lane highway in many areas, increasing the likelihood of delays due to accidents or slow-moving vehicles. Local roads, such as **County Road 300 South** and **County Road 100 West**, offer access to smaller clinics and medical offices within the ZIP code.

The drive times to the nearest hospitals, such as Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru (approximately 15-20 minutes) and Logansport Memorial Hospital in Logansport (approximately 30-40 minutes), are critical factors. These drive times are estimates and may vary depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and weather. The Overall Health Score considers these potential variables and their impact on the ability to receive timely medical attention.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation plays a vital role, especially for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The availability and accessibility of public transit significantly influence the Overall Health Score. The local transit authority offers bus services, but the frequency and routes may be limited.

The specific routes and schedules are essential to evaluate. Are there direct routes to major hospitals and clinics? Are the buses equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating, to accommodate individuals with disabilities? The presence of accessible public transit is a significant factor in improving the Overall Health Score for residents with mobility challenges.

The evaluation considers the frequency of service, the hours of operation, and the cost of fares. The Overall Health Score will be higher if the public transit system offers frequent, affordable, and accessible transportation options to healthcare facilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as alternative transportation options. Their availability and cost within 46958 directly impact the Overall Health Score. The assessment considers the reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also assessed. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport individuals with medical needs. The availability, cost, and responsiveness of medical transport services contribute to the Overall Health Score, particularly for those requiring assistance with mobility or medical care during transit.

**Specific Considerations:**

The Overall Health Score also considers the presence of specialized medical facilities within the ZIP code, such as urgent care centers, dialysis clinics, and physical therapy offices. The proximity of these facilities reduces the need for long-distance travel and improves the Overall Health Score.

The score also considers the availability of pharmacies and other essential healthcare services within the community. Easy access to medications and other healthcare necessities is a critical component of overall health and well-being.

**Moving to Mexico:**

The Overall Health Score doesn't directly address the possibility of moving to Mexico. However, it's important to acknowledge that healthcare access and affordability are significant factors in any relocation decision. The score provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in 46958, which can inform decisions about healthcare needs.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The Overall Health Score for 46958 is a dynamic measure, reflecting the interplay of transportation, healthcare infrastructure, and community resources. The score is influenced by drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of specialized medical transport. The accessibility of healthcare services is a critical component of overall health and well-being.

The Overall Health Score is a valuable tool for residents of 46958. It empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being. The score encourages a proactive approach to healthcare management, considering the practical realities of transportation and the importance of timely access to medical services.

The final Overall Health Score will be a numerical value, reflecting the overall accessibility of healthcare services within the ZIP code. The score will be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare resources, and community needs. This ongoing assessment ensures that residents have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions about their healthcare. The goal is to foster a healthier and more accessible healthcare environment for all residents of 46958.