47527, Dubois, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47527, Dubois, Indiana is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.92 percent of residents in 47527 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center with a distance of 9.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47527

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 47527, Dubois, Indiana, necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation options. This rural community presents unique challenges and opportunities when navigating the landscape of medical appointments, emergency services, and ongoing care. The ability to reach healthcare facilities is a critical determinant of health outcomes, and this assessment examines the available pathways for residents.

The primary mode of transportation in Dubois County is, unsurprisingly, personal vehicles. The vast majority of residents rely on their cars, trucks, and SUVs to traverse the distances to healthcare providers. This reliance underscores the importance of well-maintained roads and manageable drive times. Major thoroughfares impacting healthcare access include **US-231**, the primary north-south artery, and **IN-56**, running east-west. These highways are crucial for accessing hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services located in neighboring towns and cities.

Drive times are a significant factor. Residents of 47527 are often located a considerable distance from major healthcare centers. For instance, a trip to Memorial Hospital in Jasper, the closest full-service hospital, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. Reaching larger hospitals in Evansville, such as Deaconess Hospital or St. Vincent Hospital, can extend travel times to an hour or more, especially during peak commuting hours. These longer drive times can be a barrier to timely care, particularly in emergency situations.

Public transportation options are limited in Dubois County. There is no established county-wide public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without access to personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of readily available public transportation creates a substantial hurdle in accessing healthcare services, potentially delaying or preventing necessary medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available, but their presence in Dubois County is not as robust as in more urban areas. Availability can be inconsistent, and wait times may be longer, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This unreliability poses a challenge for those who rely on ride-sharing for transportation to appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patient transportation, offer a more specialized solution. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or private transportation providers, cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that necessitate specialized care during transport. While these services are available, they can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a hospital or clinic. It encompasses the ability to obtain prescriptions, attend follow-up appointments, and receive ongoing care. The availability of pharmacies, primary care physicians, and specialists within a reasonable distance is crucial. In 47527, residents have access to local pharmacies and primary care physicians. However, access to specialized medical care, such as cardiology, oncology, or neurology, often requires travel to larger cities, further emphasizing the importance of transportation.

The physical infrastructure of the area also plays a role. Road conditions, including the quality of pavement, the presence of potholes, and the availability of sidewalks and bike lanes, impact the safety and ease of travel. In rural areas like Dubois County, road maintenance is essential for ensuring safe and reliable transportation. The lack of sidewalks and bike lanes limits alternative transportation options, further increasing the reliance on personal vehicles.

The demographics of 47527 influence the overall health score. Dubois County has a significant elderly population, who may have mobility limitations and increased healthcare needs. The presence of a substantial senior population highlights the importance of accessible transportation options and the availability of home healthcare services. The availability of these services can reduce the need for frequent travel to healthcare facilities, improving the overall quality of life for seniors.

The socioeconomic status of residents also plays a role. Individuals with lower incomes may face challenges in affording transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees. This can create a barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or neglected medical care. Addressing transportation affordability is a crucial component of improving the overall health score for this community.

The integration of technology offers potential solutions. Telemedicine, or virtual doctor visits, can reduce the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. However, access to reliable internet service is essential for telemedicine to be effective. Improving internet infrastructure in rural areas like 47527 can significantly enhance healthcare access.

For individuals **moving to Dubois**, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Prospective residents should consider the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the potential costs associated with travel. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers is also recommended.

The overall health score for 47527 is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the absence of a robust public transportation system, creates challenges for healthcare access. While ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offer alternative solutions, their availability and cost can be limiting factors. Addressing these transportation barriers through infrastructure improvements, the expansion of public transit options, and the promotion of telemedicine can significantly improve the overall health score for residents of Dubois County.