47247, Jonesville, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47247, Jonesville, Indiana is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.25 percent of residents in 47247 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schneck Medical Center with a distance of 7.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Jonesville (ZIP Code 47247)

The Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Jonesville (ZIP Code 47247) paints a complex picture, heavily influenced by transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport alternatives, all crucial factors determining healthcare access for current and prospective residents. Understanding these nuances is essential for anyone considering moving to Jonesville, ensuring their healthcare needs can be met efficiently and effectively.

Jonesville, a community nestled in Bartholomew County, Indiana, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare accessibility. The town's relative isolation, coupled with the limited public transportation infrastructure, dictates that personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for accessing medical services. This reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in and around Jonesville are a critical component of the health score. The nearest hospitals, Columbus Regional Hospital and Major Health Partners Hospital, are located in Columbus, Indiana, approximately 15 miles east. Driving from Jonesville to Columbus typically involves navigating US-31, a major north-south thoroughfare, and then transitioning onto local roads.

During peak traffic hours, the drive can take upwards of 30 minutes, potentially impacting timely access to urgent care or specialist appointments. The route is generally well-maintained, but inclement weather, such as snow or heavy rain, can further extend travel times and increase the risk of accidents. The condition of secondary roads leading to smaller clinics and doctor's offices within the county also plays a role, with potholes and uneven surfaces potentially hindering safe travel.

Public transportation options in Jonesville are notably limited. The Bartholomew County Transit System (BCTS) provides some service within Columbus, but its reach into Jonesville is minimal. There are no direct bus routes connecting Jonesville to Columbus Regional Hospital or Major Health Partners Hospital. This lack of robust public transit significantly diminishes the health score, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or cannot drive.

The BCTS operates a demand-response service, requiring advance booking, which may be an option for some residents needing to travel within the county. However, this service is not specifically designed for medical transportation and may not be ideal for urgent care situations. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles and routes is limited, posing a significant barrier for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Jonesville is variable, and wait times can be significant, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources.

The lack of readily available ride-sharing services further exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing are crucial factors that impact the overall health score, particularly for those needing to travel to Columbus for medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in Jonesville. However, these services are typically reserved for emergencies or individuals with specific medical needs. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary, potentially creating financial burdens for patients.

Several medical transport providers serve the area, including local ambulance services and private companies specializing in NEMT. These services are vital for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation, but their availability and cost must be considered when evaluating healthcare access.

The availability of medical transport services is a critical component of the overall health score. While these services provide essential transportation for those with medical needs, their limited scope and potential cost can still pose challenges.

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Jonesville is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for residents seeking medical care. The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly during peak hours, can also affect timely access to care.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options negatively impacts the health score, particularly for vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This situation underscores the need for improved public transportation infrastructure, expanded ride-sharing services, and increased access to medical transport options.

For individuals considering moving to Jonesville, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Careful consideration should be given to the availability of personal transportation, the potential for reliance on ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options. Prospective residents should also research the proximity of healthcare facilities and the associated drive times, especially during peak hours.

The overall health score for Jonesville could be improved by investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical transport options. These improvements would enhance healthcare access for all residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential for ensuring that all residents of Jonesville can receive timely and effective medical care.

The health score is directly impacted by the ability to get to healthcare. The lack of accessible transportation options in Jonesville creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who are most vulnerable. The need for improved transportation infrastructure and services is paramount to improving the overall health and well-being of the community.