37617, Blountville, Tennessee Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 37617, Blountville, Tennessee is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.19 percent of residents in 37617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indian Path Community Hospital with a distance of 9.23 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37617

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires meticulous planning, especially concerning access to healthcare. This analysis, tailored for those considering a move to Blountville, Tennessee (ZIP code 37617), meticulously examines the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing an "Alzheimer's Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and available ride-sharing and medical transport services. This score aims to provide clarity and aid in informed decision-making for individuals and families facing the challenges of this debilitating illness.

Blountville, a charming community nestled in Sullivan County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The primary challenge is the relative rurality of the area, which impacts the availability and efficiency of transportation options. Our analysis focuses on commute times to key healthcare facilities, the accessibility of public transit, and the viability of alternative transportation solutions.

The "Alzheimer's Score" considers factors like the ease of travel, the availability of assistance, and the overall stress level associated with transportation. A higher score reflects better access, while a lower score indicates potential difficulties. We evaluate the following factors: driving times, public transportation availability (including ADA accessibility), ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

**Driving Times: The Cornerstone of Healthcare Access**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in Blountville. The primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating the region's highways and roads. The most significant healthcare provider is Holston Valley Medical Center, located in Kingsport, approximately 15 miles from Blountville. The primary route involves taking **Highway 126** towards **Interstate 26 (I-26) East**. The drive on I-26 is generally smooth, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours. Expect a commute time of around 20-30 minutes under normal conditions.

Another crucial healthcare destination is Indian Path Community Hospital in Kingsport. Accessing Indian Path typically involves traveling on **Highway 126** and then taking **I-26 East** to exit 59. The drive is comparable to the Holston Valley route, also taking approximately 20-30 minutes. Traffic conditions can impact travel times, so planning ahead is essential.

For specialized care, the proximity to larger cities like Johnson City and Bristol is a factor. Accessing facilities in these cities involves longer drives. For example, a trip to Johnson City Medical Center requires traveling on **Highway 126** to **I-26 West**, then taking the appropriate exit. This journey typically takes 30-45 minutes. The Bristol Regional Medical Center is about the same distance.

The Alzheimer's Score for driving is affected by the potential for increased travel times due to traffic or weather conditions. The need for a reliable driver, or the ability to use ride-sharing services, becomes critical. The score also considers the cognitive demands of driving, which can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Blountville is limited, a significant factor influencing the Alzheimer's Score. The primary public transit provider is the **Bristol Tennessee-Virginia Transit (BT&VT)**, which operates a fixed-route bus system. However, these routes are limited in coverage and frequency, making them less than ideal for regular healthcare appointments.

The BT&VT system does offer ADA-accessible buses, which are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route network and infrequent schedules can still pose significant challenges. The nearest bus stops may be a considerable distance from a residence, and transfers might be required, adding to the complexity and duration of the journey.

The Alzheimer's Score reflects the challenges of relying on public transit, especially for individuals with cognitive impairments. The need for careful planning, the potential for long wait times, and the limited route options contribute to a lower score in this area.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Blountville area. These services can provide a convenient alternative to driving, especially for individuals who are unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary, and wait times may be longer in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer another option. These services typically provide transportation to and from healthcare appointments, often with assistance from trained personnel. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including **CareRide** and **First Call Medical Transportation**. These services can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing a safe and reliable means of transportation.

The Alzheimer's Score considers the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. While these options can provide a valuable solution, the cost and potential wait times are factors that influence the score.

**Overall Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations**

Based on our analysis, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Blountville (ZIP code 37617) is moderate. While driving offers reasonable commute times to key healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services necessitate careful planning.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering a Move to Blountville:**

* **Assess Driving Capabilities:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely and reliably. If driving is no longer an option, explore alternative transportation solutions.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) and medical transport providers (CareRide, First Call Medical Transportation).
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Prioritize housing locations that are close to healthcare facilities or accessible to reliable transportation options.
* **Caregiver Support:** Ensure a strong support system, including family members, friends, or professional caregivers, to assist with transportation and healthcare appointments.
* **Plan for Contingencies:** Have backup transportation plans in place, such as a network of friends or family members who can provide rides.
* **Consider Assisted Living Facilities:** If independent living becomes challenging, consider the availability of assisted living facilities in the area that provide transportation services.

Moving to Blountville requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. By understanding the available options and planning proactively, individuals and families can navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and ensure access to the care they need. This analysis provides a starting point for making informed decisions about healthcare access in this community.