47711, Evansville, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47711, Evansville, Indiana is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.55 percent of residents in 47711 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Deaconess Hospital Inc with a distance of 2.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47711

Considering a move to Evansville, Indiana, specifically the 47711 ZIP code? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount for overall well-being. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of healthcare accessibility within and from 47711, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture for prospective residents.

The 47711 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Evansville, presents a mixed bag of healthcare access. While several medical facilities are located within or near the area, the effectiveness of reaching them hinges heavily on transportation. The score is calculated based on the relative ease of reaching various healthcare providers, factoring in travel time, cost, and convenience of available modes.

**Drive Times: The Dominant Factor**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfares, including the Lloyd Expressway, US-41, and I-69, are crucial for navigating the city. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours.

Reaching Deaconess Midtown Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 5-15 minutes, depending on the starting point within 47711 and traffic conditions. The route often involves the Lloyd Expressway or accessing US-41. St. Vincent Hospital, another prominent facility, is accessible within a similar timeframe, using routes like the Lloyd Expressway and then heading east.

Accessing specialized care or facilities located further afield, such as those in the surrounding counties, necessitates longer drive times. Travel to facilities outside of the immediate Evansville area can extend to 30-60 minutes or more, depending on the destination and traffic. This extended travel time can be a significant concern during emergencies or for regular appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

The Evansville Transit System (ETS) provides public transportation within the city. However, its impact on healthcare access within 47711 is limited. While ETS operates several routes that pass through the area, the frequency of service and the overall coverage can be restrictive.

Route 2, for example, provides service along the Lloyd Expressway, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities along that corridor. Route 10 serves the north side of the city. Route 12, also, is a major route. However, the routes may not directly serve all healthcare providers, and transfers might be required, adding to the travel time and inconvenience.

Furthermore, the ETS system’s ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and lifts, are available on all buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the overall efficiency of public transit for healthcare access in 47711 is hampered by limited route coverage and frequency, making it a less viable option for many residents, especially those requiring timely medical attention.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services can provide relatively quick and convenient access to healthcare facilities within the city.

The availability of ride-sharing services is generally good in Evansville, and wait times are typically reasonable. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. Moreover, ride-sharing availability can be affected by peak demand and driver availability, potentially leading to delays.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using public transportation. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers offer these services.

NEMT services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who do not require an ambulance but need assistance with transportation. These services can be a lifeline for those who are unable to drive or use public transit. However, the availability and cost of NEMT services can vary, and advance booking is often required.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 47711 is moderate. While the presence of healthcare facilities within and near the ZIP code is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges.

Drive times are generally reasonable for accessing major hospitals and clinics, but traffic congestion can impact travel times, especially during peak hours. Public transit offers a limited alternative, with route coverage and frequency being major constraints. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient option, but cost and availability can be concerns. Medical transport services are available for those with specific needs, but cost and booking requirements must be considered.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The concentration of hospitals, clinics, and specialized care providers within and near 47711 positively impacts the score.
* **Drive Times:** The accessibility of healthcare facilities via major roadways (Lloyd Expressway, US-41, I-69) is crucial, but traffic conditions can affect travel times.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The limited route coverage and frequency of the ETS system negatively impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Services:** The availability and cost of Uber and Lyft provide a convenient alternative, but these factors can affect the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability of NEMT and ambulance services is essential for individuals with specific needs, supporting the score.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Evansville and residing in 47711 presents a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. While the location offers proximity to several medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration. Prospective residents should evaluate their transportation needs and preferences, considering the potential impact on healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability should also be factored into the decision-making process. Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for 47711 suggests a need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options to ensure timely and convenient access to healthcare.