47634, Richland, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47634, Richland, Indiana is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.67 percent of residents in 47634 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 8.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47634

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 47634, nestled in the heart of Richland, Indiana, a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare accessibility is crucial for residents and those considering moving to this area. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" that considers various transportation options, travel times, and the availability of medical services, painting a detailed picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in 47634 is its rural setting. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, this environment presents unique transportation hurdles. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for most daily activities, including medical appointments. The availability of diverse transportation options is limited, influencing the overall health score.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The most common route for accessing healthcare in 47634 involves driving. The primary roadways serving the area are State Road 61, State Road 64, and County Road 1000 North. These roads provide direct access to local medical facilities, including the Memorial Hospital in Jasper, approximately a 25-minute drive via State Road 64. The trip is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, especially near Jasper.

For specialized care, residents often travel to Evansville, Indiana, a city offering a wider array of medical specialists and facilities. This journey typically involves taking State Road 61 south to Interstate 64 west. The drive to Evansville can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This longer travel time impacts the health score, as it can deter individuals from seeking preventative care or prompt treatment.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options in 47634 are extremely limited. The Dubois County Transit system offers some services, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily for essential errands and are not specifically tailored for medical appointments. The frequency of service is low, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

The lack of widespread public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of accessible and reliable public transportation creates a barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are available, offering specialized transportation for individuals with mobility challenges or medical needs. These services, often provided by companies like First Transit or local ambulance services, can provide door-to-door transportation. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, further affecting the health score.

**Healthcare Facility Landscape:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within 47634 and the surrounding areas is a critical component of the health score. Richland itself has limited medical services. Residents rely on healthcare providers in neighboring towns, such as Jasper, or travel to Evansville for more specialized care.

Memorial Hospital in Jasper offers a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and some specialty clinics. This proximity to Jasper is a positive factor, but the availability of specific specialists may still require travel to Evansville. The distance to Evansville, while manageable, increases the time commitment and travel costs associated with accessing specialized medical care.

**ADA Accessibility:**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. All healthcare facilities are mandated to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms. However, the accessibility of transportation options is a key factor. The limited availability of public transit with ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts, creates a barrier for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 47634 is moderately impacted by the challenges of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for longer travel times to access specialized care all contribute to a lower score. While the presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides alternative options, their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

To improve the health score and enhance healthcare access for residents of 47634, several recommendations are suggested. First, the expansion of public transportation services, including increased frequency, expanded routes, and ADA-compliant vehicles, is essential. This would provide a viable option for those without personal vehicles and reduce reliance on costly alternatives.

Second, promoting and supporting ride-sharing programs, potentially through subsidies or partnerships with local healthcare providers, could improve accessibility. Third, exploring partnerships with medical transport services to offer affordable and reliable transportation for medical appointments is crucial.

Fourth, increasing the availability of telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations. Finally, attracting more healthcare providers, including specialists, to the local area would reduce travel times and improve access to care.

For those considering moving to Richland, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is paramount. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options necessitate careful planning for healthcare needs. The implementation of the above recommendations would significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" and create a healthier community for all residents of 47634.