46967, Onward, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46967, Onward, Indiana is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.33 percent of residents in 46967 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dukes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46967

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 46967, focusing on the critical component of transportation. We will delve into the realities of navigating to medical facilities, assessing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This score offers a snapshot of healthcare access, a vital consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Onward and establishing their well-being within this community.

ZIP Code 46967, representing Peru, Indiana, presents a specific set of challenges and opportunities regarding transportation to healthcare. The area's relative isolation and reliance on personal vehicles shape the landscape of healthcare access. The score considers the time, cost, and convenience associated with reaching essential medical services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation barriers and advantages that residents face when seeking healthcare.

Drive times are a primary concern. Residents often rely on personal vehicles to reach medical facilities. The primary routes involve navigating the well-maintained network of highways and local roads. Traveling south on US-31 is the main artery, connecting Peru to larger regional medical centers. Depending on the destination, this route can involve significant travel times, especially during peak hours.

Other crucial roads include State Road 19, which runs north-south, and State Road 218, which traverses east-west. These roads provide alternative routes to various medical offices and clinics. The condition of these roads, traffic congestion, and seasonal weather conditions can all impact drive times, potentially delaying access to critical care.

Public transportation options in Peru are limited. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. Currently, the public transit system in Peru is minimal. It consists of a small fleet of buses, but the routes and schedules are often limited, and service frequency might not meet the needs of those requiring regular medical appointments.

Details regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility are also crucial. The public transportation system must adhere to ADA guidelines, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can use the service safely and independently. Information about wheelchair lifts, ramps, and other accessibility features is essential for evaluating the suitability of public transit for all residents.

The rise of ride-sharing services has offered an alternative to personal vehicles and traditional public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Peru is variable. Their presence is often dependent on driver availability and demand. Residents may experience delays or difficulties securing a ride, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited service.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services are particularly important for those requiring ambulance transport, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, or stretcher services. Several medical transport brands serve the Peru area.

These services are vital for individuals who cannot travel independently. Assessing the availability, cost, and responsiveness of these services is critical for evaluating the overall health score. The efficiency and reliability of medical transport services directly impact the ability of individuals to access timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the proximity of various healthcare facilities. Peru has a limited number of hospitals and clinics within the immediate vicinity. Residents often need to travel to larger medical centers in neighboring cities. This necessitates longer drive times and potentially increases the burden on transportation.

The types of medical facilities available within the ZIP Code and the surrounding areas also influence the score. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, emergency rooms, and urgent care centers is crucial for providing comprehensive healthcare. The score considers the range of services offered and the ability of residents to access the care they need.

The cost of transportation is another significant factor. The price of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and the cost of ride-sharing services can create a financial barrier to healthcare access. Individuals with limited incomes may struggle to afford transportation, leading to delayed or missed medical appointments.

The score also considers the impact of transportation on health outcomes. Delays in accessing medical care can lead to worsening health conditions and increased healthcare costs. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly is essential for preventing complications and ensuring positive health outcomes.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static measure. It can change based on various factors, including improvements in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transit services, and the availability of ride-sharing options. The score also reflects the evolving healthcare landscape and the changing needs of the community.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access in ZIP Code 46967. This information can be used by residents, healthcare providers, and community leaders to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies that promote better healthcare access. For anyone considering moving to Onward, this detailed assessment of transportation and healthcare access is a crucial factor in making an informed decision.

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 46967 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, with certain challenges related to transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present potential barriers to care. However, the presence of medical transport services and the network of highways and roads provide some avenues for accessing healthcare.

Future improvements in public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of healthcare facilities within the community could significantly improve the "Overall Health Score." By addressing the transportation challenges, the community can create a healthier environment for all its residents. This detailed analysis provides a foundation for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and advocating for positive change.