47264, Norman, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47264, Norman, Indiana is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.66 percent of residents in 47264 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Dunn with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47264

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when assessing the overall health of a community. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 47264, offering a detailed perspective on the transportation infrastructure and its impact on accessing medical services. Understanding these factors is paramount to making informed decisions about relocating and ensuring continued well-being.

ZIP Code 47264, encompassing the vibrant community of Norman, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The efficacy of the transportation network directly influences the ability of residents to reach essential medical appointments, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments. This write-up will delve into the specifics of drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for this area.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this system hinges on the road network and traffic conditions. Major thoroughfares like **Interstate 35 (I-35)** and **Highway 9** serve as the arterial highways, connecting Norman to surrounding areas and healthcare facilities. However, rush hour congestion can significantly extend travel times, particularly during peak commuting periods.

Accessing healthcare facilities in neighboring cities, such as Oklahoma City, often necessitates travel on I-35. The distance and potential traffic delays can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience. The time commitment for appointments, especially for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent visits, can become a significant burden. The ability to reach these facilities quickly is key to the overall health of the community.

Local roads, including **Robinson Street** and **Main Street**, provide essential links to local clinics and hospitals. While these routes offer convenient access for some, their limitations become apparent during emergencies or when specialized care is required. The efficiency of these roads directly impacts the ability to reach urgent care facilities.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The availability and accessibility of public transit are crucial for individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider in Norman is **Cleveland Area Rapid Transit (CART)**.

CART operates a network of bus routes throughout the city, including routes that connect to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes and the geographic coverage can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor in ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services.

The effectiveness of public transit is also influenced by the distance between bus stops and healthcare facilities. Long walking distances or the need to transfer between routes can create barriers to access, especially for those with mobility limitations. The overall efficiency of the public transit system significantly influences the ability of residents to reach their appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, have emerged as valuable transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a flexible alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **FirstMed Transport**, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer specialized vehicles, such as wheelchair-accessible vans, and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers. The availability of these services is critical for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs.

The accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for those who face transportation challenges. These services can help bridge the gap between homes and healthcare facilities, ensuring that residents can attend their appointments.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 47264 requires a holistic assessment of the factors discussed above. The score should reflect the ease with which residents can access healthcare services, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor in determining the overall health of a community.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Time:** Average travel times to major healthcare facilities, considering peak and off-peak traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit:** Frequency, coverage, and ADA accessibility of bus routes.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability and cost of specialized medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** The location of healthcare facilities within the ZIP Code and surrounding areas.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends. Improve the accessibility of bus stops and ensure that all buses are ADA-compliant.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Collaborate with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation options for individuals with low incomes or mobility limitations.
* **Expand Medical Transport:** Increase the availability of medical transport services, particularly for individuals with complex medical needs.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Address traffic congestion on major thoroughfares and improve road maintenance to ensure safe and efficient travel.

**Conclusion: A Path to Wellness**

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 47264 reflects a complex interplay of transportation factors. While the area offers access to various healthcare facilities, challenges remain regarding transportation efficiency and accessibility. By addressing these challenges through strategic improvements to public transit, ride-sharing programs, and medical transport services, the community can enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents. The goal is to create a community where healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of their transportation limitations. Considering these factors is crucial when moving to Norman.