A USDOT University Transportation Center

Accessibility Index (AI)

Accessibility Index (AI) is a tool used to measure access to health care using public transportation. It is calculated by dividing the number of people living within a certain distance of a healthcare facility by the number of people living within that same distance of a public transport stop. The AI measures the number of destinations that are within a certain distance from a particular location.
This index can be used to compare different areas or to track changes over time. It is important to note that the AI does not take into account the quality of care or the availability of services at each healthcare facility.

This tool will help achieve the goal of the following objectives

  • Less Contamination
  • Less Emissions
  • Less Traffic Noise
  • Connectivity and Inclusion
  • Healthy Destinations
  • Less Traffic Violence
  • Active Transportation
  • Green Space

Estimation Technique

By dividing the total population living within a specific distance of a healthcare institution by the total population living within the same distance of a public transportation station, an estimate is derived. The AI counts how many locations are within a certain distance of a specific place.