47576, Saint Croix, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47576, Saint Croix, Indiana is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.58 percent of residents in 47576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47576

This assessment provides an overall health score for the accessibility of healthcare services within and from ZIP Code 47576, a region encompassing Saint Croix, Indiana. The analysis considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents seeking to maintain and improve their health, particularly for those contemplating a move to this area. This score will help assess the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical care, influencing their overall well-being.

The core of this assessment hinges on the critical element of *transportation* and its impact on *healthcare access*. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably is a fundamental determinant of health outcomes. This analysis considers the time, cost, and convenience associated with each mode of transport, reflecting the realities faced by individuals in Saint Croix and providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. This information is particularly valuable for individuals considering *moving to Saint Croix*, as it allows for informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Personal Vehicle Accessibility:**

The primary mode of transportation in Saint Croix is the personal vehicle. The area is largely rural, and the road network is designed to accommodate this. Residents generally rely on their cars to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related services.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The closest hospitals are likely in Jasper, Indiana, which is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US-231 North. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, especially near the city. Other local roads, such as IN-56, offer alternative routes, though they may be more circuitous.

Further afield, larger hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Evansville, Indiana, approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive via IN-57 North and I-64 West. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments requiring punctuality. Weather conditions, particularly during winter, can also significantly impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 47576 are extremely limited. Dubois County, where Saint Croix is located, has minimal public transit infrastructure. There is no established bus route network that directly serves the area, making it challenging for individuals without personal vehicles to access healthcare.

The absence of readily available public transportation poses a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for those who cannot drive, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of options can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit options further exacerbates this issue for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Saint Croix area, but their availability and reliability may vary. The rural nature of the region can mean longer wait times and potentially higher fares compared to urban areas. This can make ride-sharing a less viable option for routine medical appointments or for individuals on a tight budget.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare-related needs. These services typically involve pre-scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier, especially for those without adequate insurance coverage. The availability of these services also depends on factors such as staffing levels and scheduling capacity, potentially limiting access during peak demand.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity and Availability:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another crucial aspect of *healthcare access*. While the area is served by a number of primary care physicians and local clinics, access to specialized care may require travel to Jasper or Evansville. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is a key factor in determining the overall health score.

The presence of a well-equipped hospital in Jasper, along with the larger medical centers in Evansville, provides a safety net for residents of Saint Croix. However, the travel times involved can be a significant inconvenience and can affect the ability to receive timely care in emergency situations.

**Overall Health Score Calculation:**

The overall health score for healthcare accessibility in ZIP Code 47576 is determined by a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Personal vehicle accessibility receives the highest weight, reflecting its dominance as the primary mode of transport. Public transportation limitations and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are also factored in, with lower weights assigned due to their limited impact.

The proximity of healthcare facilities, including primary care providers, hospitals, and specialist clinics, is also considered. The score is then adjusted to reflect the specific needs of different demographic groups, such as the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Improving *healthcare access* in ZIP Code 47576 requires a multi-faceted approach. Encouraging the development of a more robust public transportation system, even a limited one, could significantly benefit residents. This could involve establishing bus routes or utilizing demand-response transit services.

Expanding the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also crucial. This could involve partnerships between local healthcare providers and transportation companies, as well as subsidies for individuals with limited financial resources.

Furthermore, attracting more healthcare providers to the area, including specialists, could reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care. Telehealth services can also play a vital role in improving access, particularly for individuals in rural areas.

For those *moving to Saint Croix*, it is imperative to carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and transportation options. Researching the location of medical facilities, understanding travel times, and exploring the availability of various transportation services are essential steps in ensuring access to quality healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare accessibility in ZIP Code 47576 reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by residents. While personal vehicle accessibility is relatively good, the limitations of public transportation and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services pose significant barriers for many. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, healthcare provider recruitment, and telehealth services can significantly improve the health and well-being of the community. This analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding and improving *healthcare access* in Saint Croix, ultimately contributing to a healthier community.