47635, Rockport, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47635, Rockport, Indiana is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.64 percent of residents in 47635 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension St Vincent Warrick with a distance of 14.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47635

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Rockport, Indiana (ZIP Code 47635) requires a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis examines the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, considering various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, and the implications for overall well-being. The goal is to paint a clear picture for prospective residents considering moving to Rockport, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Rockport is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The vast majority of residents rely on their cars to navigate the region. This necessitates an examination of drive times to key medical facilities. The primary route to many healthcare providers involves navigating the network of highways and roads that traverse the county.

For those seeking more specialized care, a drive to Evansville, Indiana, roughly 40 miles west, becomes necessary. This journey typically involves utilizing **Highway 61** south to connect with **Interstate 64** west. Depending on traffic, this drive can take between 45 minutes and an hour, potentially longer during peak commuting hours or inclement weather. This extended travel time can pose a significant challenge, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent medical attention.

Closer to home, **Spencer County Memorial Hospital** in neighboring Chrisney, Indiana, offers a more immediate healthcare option. The drive, primarily along **Highway 61**, is significantly shorter, typically taking around 15-20 minutes. This proximity provides a crucial advantage, especially for emergency situations and routine check-ups. The hospital offers a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and various specialist consultations, making it a vital resource for the community.

Public transportation options in Rockport and the surrounding areas are limited. This presents a significant hurdle for individuals who do not own a vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The availability of accessible public transit, with ADA-compliant features, is critical for ensuring healthcare access for all.

While a formal, regularly scheduled public transit system does not exist within Rockport, the **Evansville Transit System (ETS)** offers limited service to the area. However, these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve the specific medical facilities needed. Further, the ETS routes that do reach Rockport often lack ADA-compliant features, presenting a barrier for those with mobility challenges. This scarcity of public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the challenges faced by those without them.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rockport area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While these services offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles, their availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. Several companies operate in the region, providing specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often utilize wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and comfortable transport. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially for non-emergency appointments.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 47635 is significantly influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles. While the drive times to local healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the lack of robust public transportation options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges. These factors can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, potentially leading to delayed or missed medical appointments, which can negatively impact their health outcomes.

The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Rockport. While the town offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the limitations in transportation options require careful consideration. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those who rely on public transit should thoroughly research the availability and cost of alternative transportation options before making a move.

Further, the availability of healthcare professionals and specialists within Rockport and the surrounding areas is a critical aspect of the overall health score. While the presence of Spencer County Memorial Hospital in Chrisney is a positive factor, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to Evansville. This underscores the importance of considering the drive times and transportation options when evaluating the overall health score.

The healthcare landscape in Rockport is a complex interplay of geographical factors, transportation infrastructure, and available services. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create a multifaceted challenge for residents seeking access to healthcare.

For those considering moving to Rockport, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Understanding the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the associated costs is essential for making an informed decision. The overall health score in ZIP Code 47635 is significantly influenced by these factors, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and careful consideration of the healthcare landscape.

The future of healthcare access in Rockport could be improved by increasing public transportation options. Expanding the reach of the Evansville Transit System, including more frequent routes and ADA-compliant features, would significantly improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Encouraging ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers to increase their presence in the area could also provide more accessible and affordable options.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 47635 reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the local transportation infrastructure and healthcare services. While the proximity to Spencer County Memorial Hospital offers a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options present challenges. For prospective residents, careful consideration of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial for ensuring access to quality healthcare and contributing to a healthy and fulfilling life in Rockport. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is a key component of healthcare access, influencing the overall well-being of the community and making Rockport a viable destination for those seeking a quieter life.