37311, Cleveland, Tennessee Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 37311, Cleveland, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.31 percent of residents in 37311 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 1.80 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cleveland, TN (ZIP Code 37311)

Considering a move to Cleveland, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37311), and managing arthritis? This "Arthritis Score" assesses the accessibility of healthcare, particularly rheumatology and pain management, focusing on transportation options. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, painting a picture of healthcare access within this community. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone prioritizing healthcare needs, especially those living with arthritis.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is proximity. In 37311, the primary healthcare hub is the Tennova Healthcare - Cleveland hospital, located at 2800 Westside Dr NW. Several rheumatologists and pain management specialists have offices within the city, often clustered near the hospital. This close proximity is a significant advantage for individuals with arthritis, minimizing travel time and reducing the physical strain of appointments.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation. From many residential areas within 37311, reaching Tennova is a straightforward journey. The primary artery is Keith Street (US-11), which provides direct access to the hospital. Expect drive times to vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. During peak hours, Keith Street can experience congestion, potentially adding 10-15 minutes to the commute.

Another key route is Ocoee Street (US-64), which intersects Keith Street and provides access to the hospital from the eastern side of 37311. This route is generally less congested than Keith Street, offering a potentially quicker alternative. The drive time from the eastern edge of the ZIP code to Tennova should typically be under 15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

For those living further south, the journey might involve taking Paul Huff Parkway, a major thoroughfare that connects to Keith Street. This route offers a more scenic drive, but it could add a few minutes to the commute due to a slightly longer distance.

Public transportation in Cleveland, while present, is limited. The Cleveland Urban Area Transit System (CUATS) operates a fixed-route bus service. Unfortunately, the routes and frequency are not designed to specifically address the needs of individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis. Service is generally available Monday through Friday during daytime hours.

The CUATS system does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules make it challenging to rely on public transit for regular rheumatology or pain management appointments. The lack of weekend service is a significant drawback for those needing healthcare access outside of typical business hours.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cleveland. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The availability and wait times for ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. However, ride-sharing offers a more flexible option than public transit, allowing for door-to-door service.

Medical transportation services also exist. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing transportation to and from appointments. While these services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing, they can offer specialized assistance, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. Researching local medical transportation providers is essential for individuals with significant mobility limitations.

The "Arthritis Score" for transportation in 37311 is moderately favorable. The proximity of healthcare providers to the hospital, combined with the ease of driving, is a significant advantage. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation services for those unable to drive, or who prefer not to, impact the overall score.

Moving to Cleveland, Tennessee, with arthritis requires careful consideration of transportation options. While driving offers the most convenient access to healthcare, exploring alternative options like ride-sharing and medical transportation services is essential, particularly for those with mobility challenges.

The availability of rheumatologists and pain management specialists within the city is a positive factor. However, the limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation services.

Individuals considering a move to 37311 should factor in the cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and the potential use of ride-sharing or medical transportation. Planning ahead and researching available services is crucial for ensuring consistent access to healthcare.

The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a vital element of successful healthcare management. A well-informed approach to transportation planning will significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with arthritis in Cleveland, TN.

Ultimately, the "Arthritis Score" reflects a community that offers reasonable access to healthcare, but where transportation planning is key. The balance between the convenience of driving and the need for alternative options shapes the healthcare experience for individuals living with arthritis in 37311.