47515, Bristow, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47515, Bristow, Indiana is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.64 percent of residents in 47515 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 20.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47515 (Bristow, Indiana)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Bristow, Indiana (ZIP code 47515), necessitates a deep dive into their ability to access healthcare. This crucial element is inextricably linked to transportation options, encompassing the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities. A low score in this area directly impacts overall well-being, potentially delaying or preventing necessary care. This analysis examines drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Bristow.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents of 47515 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The geographical layout of the area, characterized by rural landscapes and limited public transit infrastructure, makes driving the most practical solution. However, this reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges. The time required to reach healthcare facilities, particularly hospitals and specialized clinics, is a significant factor.

The nearest major healthcare hub is Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center in Leitchfield, Kentucky. The most direct route involves navigating Indiana State Road 144 and then Kentucky Highway 54, covering approximately 35 miles. Under optimal conditions, this drive takes around 45 to 60 minutes. Traffic, weather, and road conditions can significantly extend this travel time, potentially impacting the urgency of medical needs.

Another option involves traveling to Evansville, Indiana, a larger city with a more extensive healthcare infrastructure. This commute requires utilizing Indiana State Road 62, leading to the Lloyd Expressway. This journey is approximately 50 miles and can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Evansville. This longer commute further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation.

Public transit options within 47515 are extremely limited. The area lacks a dedicated public transportation system. There is no established bus route that directly serves Bristow or connects it to nearby healthcare facilities. This absence significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

The absence of public transit also impacts individuals with mobility limitations. Without accessible public transportation, those with disabilities face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. The lack of ADA-compliant infrastructure further exacerbates this issue, making it difficult for individuals with mobility challenges to navigate the area and reach medical appointments. This lack of options severely impacts the health score for residents of Bristow.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region but may not be consistently accessible in Bristow. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver density and demand, which can fluctuate. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with medical needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and emergency services. However, these services can be costly and require pre-planning, particularly for non-emergency appointments. The availability of these services can also be limited, especially in rural areas.

For those considering moving to Bristow, the transportation landscape presents a significant consideration when evaluating healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the scarcity of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing, underscores the importance of owning a reliable car. This is crucial for maintaining consistent access to healthcare services.

The overall health score for 47515 is negatively impacted by these transportation limitations. The extended drive times to healthcare facilities, the lack of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to care. These factors can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and a decline in overall health outcomes.

Improving the health score for Bristow residents requires addressing these transportation challenges. Potential solutions include exploring partnerships with neighboring counties to establish a regional public transit system, incentivizing ride-sharing services to expand their coverage in the area, and advocating for increased funding for medical transport services.

Furthermore, the development of telehealth services could help mitigate the impact of transportation barriers. Telehealth allows patients to receive medical consultations and follow-up care remotely, reducing the need for travel. Expanding access to telehealth requires investment in broadband internet infrastructure, which is often lacking in rural areas.

The healthcare access landscape in 47515 is a complex interplay of geographical constraints, limited infrastructure, and economic factors. While the area offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the challenges associated with transportation significantly impact the overall health score for its residents. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in infrastructure, innovative service models, and community partnerships is crucial for improving healthcare access and promoting the well-being of the people of Bristow. The future of healthcare access in this community hinges on the ability to overcome these transportation hurdles.