46971, Grissom Arb, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 46971, Grissom Arb, Indiana is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 46971 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dukes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 46971

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a comprehensive understanding of its residents' access to essential resources, particularly healthcare. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 46971, encompassing the area surrounding Peru, Indiana, and specifically considers the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation infrastructure in relation to healthcare access. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering various transportation options. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to the area, perhaps due to the presence of Grissom Air Reserve Base (Grissom Arb) and the associated job opportunities.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 46971 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area is characterized by a relatively low population density, making public transportation less developed. Driving is often the default, with commute times significantly impacting the overall health score. The major thoroughfares, US-31 and US-24, serve as the primary arteries for travel to healthcare providers. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to urgent medical care. Secondary roads like State Road 19 and State Road 218 offer alternative routes, but they may be less direct and potentially slower.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are crucial. Dukes Memorial Hospital, located within Peru, is a primary care facility offering a range of services. Drive times to this hospital are generally short for residents of 46971, contributing positively to the health score. However, for specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in nearby cities such as Logansport (approximately 30 minutes via US-31) or Kokomo (approximately 45 minutes via US-31). These longer drive times, especially in emergencies, can negatively impact the overall health score, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring specialized treatments not available locally.

Public transportation options in 46971 are limited. The Miami County Transit System (MCTS) provides some services, but its routes and frequency are constrained by funding and demand. Specific route numbers and schedules should be researched directly through MCTS. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical component of the overall health score. The MCTS should provide ADA-compliant vehicles and services, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access healthcare facilities. However, the limited geographic coverage and infrequent service of public transit contribute to a lower overall health score for residents who rely on these options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability may vary. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies, is a significant factor. Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are also available. The response times of ambulance services are crucial in emergencies, while NEMT services provide transportation for appointments and other medical needs. Investigating the specific brands and their coverage areas is crucial. The cost of these services can be a barrier to access for some residents, further impacting the overall health score.

The presence of Grissom Arb adds a unique dimension to the transportation and healthcare landscape. Military personnel and their families have access to specific healthcare resources, potentially impacting the overall health score for this segment of the population. However, the availability of healthcare for civilian residents of 46971 remains a key factor in assessing the overall health score. The influx of people associated with Grissom Arb might also increase demand for healthcare services, potentially straining existing resources and impacting wait times.

The availability of telehealth services is another critical consideration. Telehealth offers the potential to improve healthcare access, particularly for residents in rural areas with limited transportation options. The availability of reliable internet access is essential for telehealth services to be effective. The overall health score benefits from the presence of telehealth options, as they can reduce the need for travel and provide convenient access to medical consultations and follow-up care.

The affordability of healthcare services is also a significant factor. High healthcare costs can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical attention, impacting their overall health. The availability of insurance coverage, including government programs like Medicare and Medicaid, is crucial. The overall health score should consider the percentage of residents with health insurance and the availability of financial assistance programs for those who cannot afford healthcare.

The overall health score for 46971, considering transportation and healthcare access, would likely be moderate. While residents have access to local healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transportation, and the potential for longer drive times to specialized care facilities pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some alternatives, but their cost and reliability may vary. The presence of telehealth services and the availability of healthcare for military personnel and their families can improve the score. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential for high healthcare costs require careful consideration.

For individuals considering moving to 46971, particularly those associated with Grissom Arb, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. Researching the availability of specific medical services, the reliability of transportation options, and the affordability of healthcare is crucial. The overall health score can be improved by investing in public transportation, expanding telehealth services, and ensuring the affordability of healthcare for all residents. The future health of the community depends on addressing these challenges and creating a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of all residents.