47138, Lexington, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47138, Lexington, Indiana is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.12 percent of residents in 47138 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Scott Memorial Health with a distance of 9.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47138

This report assesses the ease of accessing healthcare services for residents of ZIP code 47138 (Lexington, Indiana), providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lexington, as convenient healthcare access significantly impacts overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite, factoring in the availability, accessibility, and affordability of various transportation modes. The higher the score, the better the access to healthcare. This analysis will help prospective residents understand the practical realities of getting to appointments, picking up prescriptions, and receiving necessary medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in 47138 is personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare facilities often involves navigating the local road network. The major thoroughfares include Interstate 65 (I-65), which offers efficient north-south travel, and State Road 3 (SR 3), a critical east-west artery. Other important routes are SR 256, SR 362, and SR 203, providing access to surrounding communities and healthcare providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the time of day. For example, a trip to the nearest hospital, Scott Memorial Hospital in Scottsburg, might take approximately 15-20 minutes via I-65 and SR 3. However, travel times could be longer during peak hours or inclement weather. Smaller clinics and doctor's offices within Lexington might be reachable in under 10 minutes.

The road infrastructure is generally well-maintained, but residents should be aware of potential traffic delays, particularly on I-65 during rush hour. Regular maintenance and occasional construction projects may also impact travel times. The accessibility of healthcare facilities is heavily reliant on the condition of these roadways, making this a critical factor in the overall score.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Lexington and the surrounding area are limited. The primary provider is the Southeastern Indiana Rural Transit System (SEIRTS), which operates demand-response services. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, and the service operates within a defined geographic area.

SEIRTS provides transportation to medical appointments, but service availability may be restricted, and advance booking is essential. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a key consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services. However, due to the rural nature of the area, the frequency and coverage of public transit are significantly lower than in more urban settings. This limitation significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lexington area, but their availability can be inconsistent. Demand and driver availability often fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This can pose a challenge for those who rely on these services for healthcare access.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services are often provided by ambulance companies or private medical transportation providers. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-authorization from insurance companies. They are generally reserved for patients who cannot safely travel by other means.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in ZIP code 47138 is moderate. While the road infrastructure is generally good, and drive times to some healthcare facilities are reasonable, the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges.

The score is also impacted by the potential costs associated with medical transport services. Residents who rely on public transit or ride-sharing should plan their trips well in advance and be prepared for potential delays. For those considering moving to Lexington, the availability of personal transportation or the ability to secure reliable transportation is essential for ensuring consistent healthcare access.

Prospective residents should also research the specific healthcare providers they intend to use and assess the practicality of reaching those facilities via available transportation options. The proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas, along with the reliability of transportation, is a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of life.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable guide for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Lexington. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when making decisions about where to live and how to maintain good health. Further improvements in public transit or increased availability of ride-sharing services would significantly improve the score, making healthcare more accessible for all residents.