47574, Rome, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47574, Rome, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

10.98 percent of residents in 47574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47574

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 47574, located in Rome, Indiana, necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, primarily focusing on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport alternatives, all crucial elements in determining the community’s ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The score reflects the reality of **healthcare access** within this specific geographic area, impacting the well-being of those considering **moving to Rome**.

The primary challenge in 47574 is its rural character, which inherently limits the breadth of healthcare options within immediate proximity. The closest major healthcare facilities are situated in Jasper, Indiana, approximately 20 miles to the north, and Evansville, Indiana, roughly 60 miles southwest. This geographical reality significantly influences the overall health score, particularly concerning **transportation** challenges.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the journey to Jasper typically involves navigating State Road 545, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. The drive, averaging 30-40 minutes, offers a relatively straightforward route. However, the distance to Evansville presents a more complex situation. The primary route, utilizing Interstate 64 West, is a major thoroughfare, but the 60-minute drive can be subject to delays due to traffic congestion or inclement weather. State Road 57 provides an alternative, though it may add time to the commute.

Public **transportation** options within 47574 are severely limited. Dubois County, where Rome is located, does not have a comprehensive public transit system. Therefore, residents are primarily reliant on personal vehicles, which poses a significant barrier for those without access to a car, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families. This dearth of public transit drastically lowers the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic. Availability is often contingent on driver proximity, meaning response times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for some residents, further limiting **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulances, are available for emergency situations. However, non-emergency medical **transportation** options are limited. Specialized medical transport companies may serve the area, but their availability and cost vary. This lack of readily available non-emergency medical transport can be a major impediment for individuals requiring regular medical appointments or treatments.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** network and the reliance on personal vehicles place a considerable strain on individuals' ability to access healthcare. This is particularly true for those with mobility limitations or without reliable access to a car. The distance to the nearest healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for delays due to traffic or weather, can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

Considering the factors, the overall health score for 47574 is significantly impacted by the **transportation** landscape. The lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create substantial barriers to **healthcare access**. This situation is further complicated by the rural nature of the area, which increases travel distances and potential for isolation.

The impact on the community is substantial. Individuals may delay seeking medical attention due to **transportation** difficulties, potentially leading to the worsening of existing health conditions. Preventative care may be neglected, increasing the risk of chronic diseases. Furthermore, the lack of accessible healthcare options can discourage individuals from **moving to Rome**, affecting the community’s growth and vitality.

The overall health score reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare. The lack of diverse **transportation** options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the limited availability of support services combine to create a situation where **healthcare access** is compromised. This is a critical consideration for anyone considering **moving to Rome**, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their health and well-being.

To improve the overall health score, several interventions are necessary. Prioritizing the development of a public **transportation** system, even a limited one, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. This could involve partnering with neighboring counties or exploring options for demand-response services. Enhancing the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services is another crucial step.

Furthermore, promoting the use of telehealth services, where possible, could reduce the need for physical visits to healthcare facilities. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and mental health services. Expanding access to medical **transportation** services, especially for non-emergency situations, is also essential.

Ultimately, improving the overall health score for 47574 requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the **transportation** challenges, expands **healthcare access**, and supports the health and well-being of all residents. This involves collaboration between local government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents themselves. The goal is to create a community where everyone can easily access the healthcare they need, regardless of their **transportation** limitations.