47845, Coalmont, Indiana Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 47845, Coalmont, Indiana is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.37 percent of residents in 47845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sullivan County Community Hospital with a distance of 10.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 47845 (Coalmont, Indiana)

The pursuit of optimal health is a journey, and the starting point for residents of Coalmont, Indiana (ZIP Code 47845), is the accessibility of healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the crucial aspect of transportation, a critical determinant of healthcare access. The ability to reach medical professionals, pharmacies, and specialized care directly impacts the health and well-being of every individual. Understanding the transportation landscape is the first step in navigating this complex and essential element of life in Coalmont.

Coalmont, a small town nestled in Clay County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's rural setting, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, often translates to longer travel times for medical appointments. This write-up considers the various transportation options available, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape. This information is invaluable for current residents and those considering moving to Coalmont, allowing them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Coalmont is the personal vehicle. The roadways, though scenic, can influence travel times. Residents typically rely on **State Road 42** to reach healthcare facilities in nearby towns. The drive to Clay County Hospital in Brazil, Indiana, the nearest hospital, is approximately 15 minutes, covering around 10 miles. This short drive offers a relatively quick access to emergency care and general medical services.

Further healthcare options necessitate longer drives. Reaching Terre Haute, Indiana, a larger city with a broader range of medical specialists and hospitals, involves a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, spanning roughly 25-30 miles. This commute primarily utilizes **State Road 42** and **US-40**. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and advanced surgical procedures, often requires this longer journey.

Driving to Indianapolis, approximately 75-90 miles away, offers access to world-class medical centers. This drive, typically taking around 1.5 to 2 hours, uses **US-40** and **Interstate 70 (I-70)**. While providing access to the highest level of medical care, the extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can further impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Coalmont and the surrounding area are limited. Clay County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of a robust public transit network presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive. This limitation disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, potentially hindering their access to necessary medical care.

While there is no fixed-route public transit, Clay County offers a demand-response service, known as the Clay County Transit. This service provides transportation within Clay County and to surrounding counties, including Vigo County (Terre Haute). Passengers must schedule rides in advance, and availability may be limited. This service is designed to be ADA accessible, with vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the reliance on pre-scheduled rides and potential wait times can still pose challenges for timely access to healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Terre Haute and Indianapolis, offering another transportation option. However, their availability in Coalmont is limited, and wait times can be significantly longer compared to urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services, such as Advanced Medical Transport, offer non-emergency medical transportation. They provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. These services, however, can be costly and require advance booking.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Coalmont, Indiana (47845) reflects a mixed landscape. The proximity to Brazil and the Clay County Hospital provides relatively quick access to basic medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges for many residents.

The lack of readily available public transportation and the infrequent presence of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning for medical appointments. Individuals without access to a vehicle or those with mobility limitations face significant obstacles. The cost of medical transportation services can also be a financial burden.

The need for longer drives to access specialized care in Terre Haute or Indianapolis further underscores the importance of reliable transportation. The extended travel times can be particularly challenging for those with chronic conditions or those needing frequent medical attention.

For those moving to Coalmont, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Planning for healthcare access, including considering the availability of family or friends to provide transportation or budgeting for medical transport services, is essential.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Coalmont is therefore moderate. While basic medical services are within reach, the limited transportation options and the longer travel times to specialized care facilities pose significant challenges. Improving public transportation, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers could significantly enhance healthcare access for residents of Coalmont, improving their overall health and well-being. These factors should be carefully considered when evaluating the advantages of moving to Coalmont.