47613, Elberfeld, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47613, Elberfeld, Indiana is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.06 percent of residents in 47613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 12.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Elberfeld, Indiana (ZIP Code 47613)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Elberfeld, Indiana (ZIP Code 47613), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. The score considers various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, assessing their impact on healthcare access. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Elberfeld, offering a realistic perspective on the ease or difficulty of reaching medical care.

The score is not a single number but a composite of factors, recognizing that healthcare access is multifaceted. It considers drive times, public transit availability, the presence of ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. Each element is evaluated based on its efficiency, reliability, and affordability, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its effect on healthcare access for Elberfeld residents.

**Personal Vehicle Access: The Primary Route**

For most Elberfeld residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The central location of Elberfeld, situated in Warrick County, provides relatively straightforward access to healthcare in nearby towns and cities. The most common routes involve navigating the network of state and county roads, including State Road 61, the main thoroughfare running north-south, and County Road 400 East, connecting to the east-west arteries.

Access to larger medical centers in Evansville, approximately 20 miles south, is typically achieved via State Road 61 to Interstate 64. Drive times to Evansville hospitals, such as Deaconess Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent Evansville, average 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. These times can be significantly impacted during peak hours, particularly on I-64, which experiences congestion.

The condition of these roads is generally good, but seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter, can affect travel times and safety. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of vehicle maintenance and the financial burden of owning and operating a car. For individuals without personal vehicles, the accessibility of healthcare becomes significantly more challenging.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Elberfeld are limited. The Evansville Transit System (ETS) does not directly serve Elberfeld, meaning residents cannot rely on scheduled bus routes for healthcare access. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle, limiting their ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential healthcare services.

While ETS does operate within Evansville, the distance and lack of direct routes from Elberfeld make it impractical for most residents. Individuals relying on public transit would need to arrange for alternative transportation to reach an ETS bus stop, adding significant travel time and potentially increasing costs. The absence of public transit also impacts the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, who may face additional barriers to healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Evansville area and may be an option for Elberfeld residents. However, the availability of these services in Elberfeld is not guaranteed, and wait times can be longer compared to more populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies serve the Evansville area, and some may extend their services to Elberfeld. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, particularly for non-emergency transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Elberfeld is moderately challenging. While residents with personal vehicles have reasonable access to healthcare facilities in Evansville, the lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for those without personal vehicles. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can also be prohibitive for some residents, impacting their ability to receive timely and consistent medical care.

The distance to healthcare facilities, combined with the reliance on personal vehicles, underscores the importance of proactive health management and preventive care. Residents must be prepared for potential travel challenges and consider the financial implications of transportation costs. The absence of easily accessible public transit highlights the need for alternative solutions, such as community-based transportation programs or partnerships with ride-sharing services.

**Impact on Moving to Elberfeld**

For individuals considering moving to Elberfeld, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options should be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive or arrange for transportation, factoring in the potential costs and travel times associated with accessing healthcare.

The overall health score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration when it comes to accessing medical care. While Elberfeld offers a peaceful, rural environment, the transportation limitations can present challenges. Prospective residents should prioritize their healthcare needs and evaluate their ability to navigate the transportation options available before making a move.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in Elberfeld requires a multi-pronged approach. Expanding public transit options, even if limited, could significantly benefit residents without personal vehicles. Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers could also improve access.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all Elberfeld residents have equitable access to healthcare, regardless of their transportation capabilities. Addressing the transportation challenges is essential for fostering a healthy and thriving community. This assessment highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and ensure that residents can receive the medical care they need.