47654, Mackey, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47654, Mackey, Indiana is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.86 percent of residents in 47654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gibson General Hospital with a distance of 13.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47654 (Mackey, Indiana)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 47654, encompassing the small community of Mackey, Indiana, is significantly impacted by the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare. A key factor is transportation, a critical component in determining the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis will delve into the specifics of transportation options, evaluating drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in Mackey.

The most prevalent mode of transportation for residents of Mackey is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The rural landscape necessitates reliance on cars for nearly all errands, including medical appointments. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities involve navigating the local road network. Residents typically utilize **Indiana State Road 56** to travel east or west, providing access to larger towns and cities where healthcare providers are concentrated.

Driving to healthcare facilities necessitates understanding travel times. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in Princeton, Indiana, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via **Indiana State Road 56** and **U.S. Route 41**. This drive time can be extended during peak traffic hours or due to inclement weather. Further afield, Evansville, Indiana, offers a broader range of healthcare options. The drive to Evansville, primarily via **U.S. Route 41**, is a considerably longer journey, taking approximately 45-60 minutes. This extended travel time can pose a significant barrier, particularly for those with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or requiring urgent care.

Public transportation options are limited in the rural setting of Mackey. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. There are no fixed-route bus services directly serving Mackey. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features for public transit. However, the lack of a public transit system in Mackey effectively eliminates any ADA-compliant transportation options. This absence exacerbates healthcare access challenges for individuals with mobility impairments, making it difficult for them to reach medical appointments and receive necessary care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their presence is not as consistent as in urban centers. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can make it difficult for residents to schedule and attend medical appointments, especially when they have no other transportation options. The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transport services are another crucial element in the healthcare access landscape. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing services such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. NEMT services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments who are unable to drive themselves but do not require emergency medical care. These services can be invaluable for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions.

The availability and cost of medical transport services vary. Some services are covered by insurance, while others require out-of-pocket payment. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden for some residents, potentially leading them to delay or forgo necessary medical care.

The journey to healthcare in Mackey is further complicated by the geographical distribution of healthcare providers. The limited number of healthcare facilities within close proximity necessitates travel to larger towns and cities. This geographical constraint, coupled with the challenges of transportation, creates a complex situation for residents seeking medical care.

The healthcare access landscape in Mackey is also influenced by the demographics of the community. The age distribution, income levels, and health status of residents play a significant role in determining their ability to access and utilize healthcare services. Seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to mobility limitations, financial constraints, and the need for frequent medical appointments.

Moving to Mackey, therefore, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare providers, the transportation options available, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring that their healthcare needs can be met effectively.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 47654 is therefore negatively impacted by the challenges of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to a complex situation. While the community may offer a peaceful rural lifestyle, healthcare access remains a significant concern.

The health score is further affected by the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and the demographic characteristics of the population. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. This could include initiatives to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and provide financial assistance for medical transportation.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Mackey requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents. By working together, the community can strive to create a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of all residents. The overall health score can be improved by addressing the critical issue of transportation and healthcare access, thus ensuring the well-being of the community.