37313, Coalmont, Tennessee Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 37313, Coalmont, Tennessee is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.40 percent of residents in 37313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 22.51 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coalmont, TN (ZIP Code 37313)

The decision to move to a new community, particularly for individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands careful consideration of factors beyond the beauty of the landscape. In the serene, rural setting of Coalmont, Tennessee (ZIP code 37313), where the Cumberland Plateau unfolds, the practicalities of **healthcare access** become paramount. This Alzheimer's Score write-up delves into the **transportation** landscape, offering a detailed assessment of the challenges and opportunities for accessing medical care within and beyond this unique ZIP code.

Coalmont itself, a close-knit community nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant forests, offers a sense of tranquility. However, this isolation presents a significant hurdle: limited immediate access to specialized medical facilities crucial for Alzheimer's patients. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating reliance on various **transportation** options.

The primary mode of **transportation** in this area is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Driving is the most direct route, but it also presents challenges. The winding roads and potential for cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's patients necessitate careful planning and consideration. From Coalmont, the primary route to larger medical centers involves navigating a network of highways and county roads.

To reach the closest hospital, Southern Tennessee Regional Health System in Winchester, the journey typically begins on State Route 108. This road winds through the heart of Coalmont, offering picturesque views. The drive then merges onto US-64, a major east-west artery that leads directly to Winchester. The total drive time, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 25 to 35 minutes, covering a distance of about 20 miles. This relatively short drive is a significant advantage.

For more specialized care, such as neurology and geriatric services, the journey may extend further. To access the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, the drive involves a longer commute. From Coalmont, one would typically take US-64 East to Interstate 24 West. This interstate is a major thoroughfare, but the journey, spanning roughly 80 miles, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This long drive time is a major consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety or fatigue during extended travel.

The availability of public **transportation** in Coalmont and the surrounding areas is extremely limited. There is no local bus service within the ZIP code itself. The nearest public **transportation** options are in larger cities like Winchester or Chattanooga, which are not readily accessible. This lack of public **transportation** severely limits **healthcare access** for those who cannot or should not drive.

The absence of public **transportation** underscores the importance of exploring alternative options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in rural areas can be unpredictable. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make these services expensive. Furthermore, the availability of drivers familiar with the specific needs of Alzheimer's patients is not guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including some that provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly. Researching and securing a reliable medical **transportation** provider before moving to Coalmont is crucial.

The terrain and road conditions in Coalmont and the surrounding areas also warrant attention. The winding roads, especially during inclement weather, can pose challenges for drivers. The presence of hills and curves may make driving more difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments. Moreover, the lack of sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure further limits mobility options for those who cannot drive.

For individuals considering **moving to Coalmont**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. This includes evaluating the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable **transportation** options, and the ability to manage the physical and cognitive demands of travel. Families should carefully consider the potential impact of long drive times, limited public **transportation**, and the reliance on personal vehicles.

Furthermore, the availability of in-home healthcare services is a critical factor. Access to visiting nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals can significantly improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Researching the availability of these services in Coalmont and the surrounding areas is a crucial step in the decision-making process.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Coalmont, while offering the charm of rural living, presents significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation**, and the potential for long drive times necessitate careful planning and proactive strategies.

The Alzheimer's Score for Coalmont, TN (37313) is therefore moderate. While the proximity to Winchester offers relatively easy access to basic medical care, the lack of public **transportation**, the longer distances to specialized facilities, and the limitations of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles. Careful planning, pre-arranged medical **transportation**, and a strong support network are essential for ensuring adequate **healthcare access** and maintaining a good quality of life for those **moving to Coalmont** with Alzheimer's disease. The decision to move should be made with a clear understanding of these **transportation** and healthcare realities.