47660, Oakland City, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47660, Oakland City, Indiana is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.56 percent of residents in 47660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gibson General Hospital with a distance of 14.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oakland City, Indiana (ZIP Code 47660)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Oakland City, Indiana (ZIP Code 47660), focusing on the critical element of **healthcare access** through various **transportation** modes. The evaluation considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced when seeking medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and those considering **moving to Oakland City**.

Oakland City, a small town nestled in southwestern Indiana, presents a unique landscape for healthcare accessibility. The town's relative isolation, while fostering a close-knit community, significantly impacts the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. The overall health score, therefore, reflects the interplay of geographical constraints and available resources.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 47660 is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are largely dictated by the local road network. The most direct route to the nearest hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, typically involves traveling along US-41 North. This journey, covering approximately 25 miles, can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Other healthcare options exist, but they necessitate longer commutes. Evansville, a regional hub with a more extensive array of medical specialists and hospitals, is roughly 45 to 60 miles away. This drive primarily utilizes US-41 South and, depending on the specific destination, may involve navigating the I-64 or the Lloyd Expressway. A trip to Evansville can easily consume over an hour, placing a considerable burden on individuals requiring regular medical attention or facing urgent health needs.

Local healthcare providers within Oakland City, such as the Oakland City Clinic, offer crucial primary care services. However, for specialized care, residents are often compelled to travel significant distances, underscoring the importance of reliable transportation. The condition of local roads, including Indiana State Road 65 and various county roads, can further influence travel times and the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transit options in Oakland City are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the town or connecting it to larger regional centers. This absence significantly disadvantages individuals without access to personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

While there may be informal or volunteer-based transportation services available through local organizations, these are often insufficient to meet the overall demand. The lack of a structured public transit system places an added strain on individuals already facing health challenges, limiting their ability to attend appointments, access medication, and maintain their overall well-being. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any form of public transit further exacerbates this issue for those with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their presence is not as consistent or widespread as in larger urban centers. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unpredictability can pose a significant challenge for those relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments, especially when timely access to care is crucial.

Specialized medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer a more tailored solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability and cost of NEMT services can vary, and residents should research local providers like First Transit or LogistiCare to determine their coverage and eligibility.

**The Overall Health Score: A Complex Equation**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Oakland City, Indiana (47660) is moderate, reflecting a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. While the town offers some local healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care and the lack of robust public transit significantly impact accessibility.

Drive times to regional medical centers, particularly in Evansville, can be lengthy, adding to the stress and inconvenience of seeking medical attention. The limited availability of ride-sharing services and the potential cost of medical transport further complicate the equation.

However, the existence of local healthcare providers, coupled with the potential for NEMT services, offers some mitigation. Residents can explore options for assistance through local agencies and community organizations. The overall score highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for residents seeking healthcare in this area.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals considering **moving to Oakland City**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. Those who rely on public **transportation** or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the potential challenges of accessing medical care.

The local community could benefit from initiatives to improve **healthcare access**, such as:

* Advocating for expanded ride-sharing services and increased availability of NEMT providers.
* Exploring partnerships with neighboring communities to establish a regional public transit system.
* Supporting programs that provide financial assistance for **transportation** to medical appointments.
* Promoting telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits.

By addressing these challenges and embracing innovative solutions, Oakland City can improve the overall health score for its residents and ensure that everyone has equitable access to the medical care they need. The journey to healthcare in 47660 is a complex one, and it requires a multifaceted approach to ensure the well-being of the community.