47521, Celestine, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47521, Celestine, Indiana is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.60 percent of residents in 47521 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 10.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Celestine, Indiana (ZIP Code 47521)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Celestine, Indiana, necessitates a deep dive into their access to healthcare. This analysis considers the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, encompassing transportation options, drive times, and the availability of alternative methods. The geographical isolation of this rural community, coupled with its limited public transit infrastructure, presents unique challenges and opportunities. This write-up will serve as a comprehensive guide, particularly for those *moving to Celestine*, highlighting the realities of *healthcare access* in the area.

The primary challenge for Celestine residents is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town is situated in Dubois County, a region characterized by sprawling landscapes and limited public transportation. The vast majority of residents depend on their cars to reach essential services, including healthcare. This dependence significantly impacts the overall health score, especially for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the specific medical needs. The closest options are often located in Jasper, Indiana, approximately a 10- to 15-minute drive away. The most direct route usually involves taking County Road 100 West, connecting to State Road 162. From there, drivers can seamlessly merge onto US-231, which provides access to various medical practices and Memorial Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Evansville, Indiana, located approximately an hour away, offers a wider array of specialists and advanced medical services. This journey typically involves taking State Road 162 to US-231 South, then connecting to Interstate 64 West. The interstate provides a relatively smooth and efficient route, but the longer travel time can be a significant burden, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing acute medical conditions.

The limited public transportation options in Celestine further exacerbate the challenges of *transportation* to healthcare. Dubois County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. While this absence underscores the need for personal vehicles, it also highlights the vulnerability of those who cannot drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural communities. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can also make these services cost-prohibitive for some residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the availability of these services in Celestine and the surrounding areas needs careful consideration. While some regional providers may serve the area, their coverage and cost structures should be thoroughly investigated.

The absence of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services underscore the importance of community-based solutions. Local initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships with neighboring counties, could help bridge the gap in healthcare access.

The *healthcare access* landscape in Celestine is significantly influenced by the availability of local medical practices. The presence of primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance is crucial. The proximity of Memorial Hospital in Jasper is a significant advantage, but the availability of specialists and the need for travel to Evansville can create challenges.

For individuals *moving to Celestine*, understanding the healthcare infrastructure is paramount. Prospective residents should research the availability of their preferred healthcare providers, assess the drive times to medical facilities, and explore the potential costs associated with transportation.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is another crucial consideration. Healthcare facilities, public transportation, and medical transportation services must comply with ADA standards to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services. This includes features like ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and trained staff to assist patients with mobility challenges.

The overall health score for Celestine residents is intricately linked to their ability to access healthcare. The current reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create a complex landscape. While the proximity of Memorial Hospital in Jasper offers a crucial advantage, the need for travel to Evansville for specialized care and the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive necessitate a multifaceted approach to improving healthcare access.

This assessment reveals a need for continued investment in local healthcare infrastructure, the promotion of community-based transportation solutions, and a focus on ensuring ADA accessibility across all healthcare services. By addressing these challenges, Celestine can improve the overall health score for its residents and create a healthier, more vibrant community.