47620, Mount Vernon, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47620, Mount Vernon, Indiana is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.84 percent of residents in 47620 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Deaconess Hospital Inc with a distance of 16.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47620

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Mount Vernon, Indiana (ZIP Code 47620) requires a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, heavily influenced by the available transportation options. This analysis delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture for individuals considering moving to Mount Vernon, Indiana, and to highlight potential challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in Mount Vernon is the reliance on personal vehicles. The city is situated in a largely rural area, with limited public transportation options. The most direct routes to healthcare providers often involve navigating the local road network. Driving times are therefore critical.

For residents needing specialized care, the journey often extends beyond Mount Vernon. Evansville, Indiana, a regional hub for healthcare, is approximately 20 to 30 minutes away via **Highway 62** and **Highway 41**. This route provides access to major hospitals like Deaconess Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent Evansville. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly increase travel times, potentially impacting the timeliness of care.

Other routes within the area include **Highway 69**, which offers a faster route to Evansville, but it is a toll road. Residents may need to consider the cost of tolls when calculating the overall expense of healthcare access. Local roads, such as **Main Street** and **Broadway Avenue**, are used for local travel to smaller clinics and pharmacies. These roads are generally well-maintained, but can experience traffic delays during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Public transportation options in Mount Vernon are limited. The Metropolitan Evansville Transit System (METS) does not have a route that directly services Mount Vernon. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, those with mobility limitations, or those who cannot afford the costs of driving. This disparity underscores the importance of considering transportation options when assessing the overall health score for this area.

While public transit is limited, the availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can provide alternative transportation options. However, the reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services in a rural area like Mount Vernon can vary. Ride availability might be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in the evenings. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for some residents, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with medical needs that preclude them from driving or using public transit. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services cater to a range of needs, from routine appointments to emergency situations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited depending on the specific requirements of the patient.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation and in healthcare facilities. While public transit is limited in this area, the healthcare facilities themselves are required to comply with ADA standards, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access care. The availability of accessible transportation options, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is crucial for ensuring that all residents can reach their healthcare providers.

The overall health score for Mount Vernon, Indiana (ZIP Code 47620) is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to the complexity of accessing healthcare. Individuals considering moving to Mount Vernon should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare facilities.

The availability of healthcare providers within Mount Vernon itself is a crucial factor. The presence of local clinics, pharmacies, and primary care physicians can reduce the need for long-distance travel. However, access to specialized care often necessitates travel to Evansville or other regional centers. This underscores the importance of considering the proximity of specialized healthcare facilities when evaluating the overall health score.

The economic factors impacting healthcare access are also important. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can place a significant financial burden on residents. Individuals with limited incomes may face difficulties in affording the transportation costs associated with accessing healthcare. This disparity highlights the need for affordable transportation options and financial assistance programs to support healthcare access for all residents.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can help to mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person appointments. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on the availability of reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology. This underscores the importance of digital literacy and infrastructure in supporting healthcare access.

The overall health score for Mount Vernon is a dynamic measure, influenced by various factors. The availability of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, the cost of accessing care, and the presence of support services all play a role. Individuals considering moving to Mount Vernon should carefully evaluate these factors to assess their ability to access healthcare and to ensure that their healthcare needs can be met.

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP Code 47620 is influenced by the complexities of transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a barrier for some residents. The availability of telehealth services and the presence of local healthcare providers can help to mitigate some of these challenges. Individuals considering moving to Mount Vernon should carefully consider these factors to assess their ability to access healthcare and to ensure that their healthcare needs can be met. A proactive approach to healthcare planning, considering the transportation landscape, is crucial for ensuring optimal health outcomes for residents of Mount Vernon.