37369, Reliance, Tennessee Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 37369, Reliance, Tennessee is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.77 percent of residents in 37369 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 18.83 miles from the area.

**Arthritis Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37369 (Reliance, TN)**

The quiet beauty of Reliance, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Cherokee National Forest, offers a tranquil escape. However, for individuals grappling with arthritis, the serenity of this location must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for accessing medical care in ZIP code 37369, considering transportation options and their suitability for those with mobility limitations.

The primary concern for residents of Reliance is the limited availability of specialized medical services within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, creating a significant dependency on reliable transportation. The condition of arthritis, with its associated pain, stiffness, and fatigue, can make even short commutes arduous. Therefore, the availability and accessibility of transportation become crucial factors in determining the quality of life for those with arthritis.

The major thoroughfare serving Reliance is US-64, a two-lane highway that winds its way through the mountains. Driving on US-64 can be challenging, especially for those with arthritis. The winding roads, varying elevation, and potential for heavy traffic, particularly during peak seasons, can exacerbate pain and fatigue. The drive time to the nearest significant medical facilities in Cleveland, Tennessee, located approximately 25 miles away, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This journey can be further complicated by the need to navigate city streets and find parking upon arrival.

Alternatives to driving are limited. Public transportation options are virtually non-existent in Reliance. There is no established bus service or other public transit system within the ZIP code or connecting directly to Cleveland. This dearth of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot or prefer not to drive, especially individuals with limited mobility or those who can no longer drive due to their condition. The absence of public transit disproportionately affects those with arthritis who may have limited financial resources.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cleveland area. However, their reliability in Reliance is questionable. The availability of drivers in the rural areas can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Moreover, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The expense, coupled with the potential for delays, can make ride-sharing an unreliable option for those with arthritis.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for those with mobility limitations. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Cleveland area, including services that can be arranged for travel to and from Reliance. These services typically involve wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with mobility issues. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of NEMT services, while beneficial, doesn't fully address the broader transportation challenges.

The nearest major hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in Cleveland, Tennessee. These include the CHI Memorial Hospital Cleveland, which offers a range of medical services, including rheumatology. Accessing these facilities requires navigating the aforementioned transportation challenges. The drive time to other medical facilities in Chattanooga, Tennessee, about an hour and a half away, is significantly longer. This extended travel time adds another layer of complexity for those with arthritis.

The terrain in Reliance is hilly, which can further complicate mobility for those with arthritis. Sidewalks are often uneven or non-existent, making walking difficult and potentially dangerous. The lack of pedestrian infrastructure necessitates reliance on vehicles for even short trips, further highlighting the importance of accessible transportation options.

For individuals considering a move to Reliance, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration, particularly if they have arthritis or other mobility-limiting conditions. The lack of public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create significant barriers to accessing healthcare.

The Arthritis Score for ZIP code 37369 is therefore relatively low. While the natural beauty of the area may be appealing, the limited healthcare access and transportation options pose significant challenges for individuals with arthritis. The need for reliable, affordable, and accessible transportation is paramount.

Future improvements in transportation infrastructure, such as the introduction of a rural public transit system or increased availability of ride-sharing services, would significantly improve the Arthritis Score for Reliance residents. Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services could help to mitigate the need for frequent in-person appointments.

In conclusion, while Reliance offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges of healthcare access, particularly transportation, must be carefully considered by individuals with arthritis. The dependence on private vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to accessing the medical care needed to manage the condition effectively. The Arthritis Score reflects these challenges, emphasizing the need for improved transportation solutions and increased healthcare access in this beautiful but geographically isolated community.