37687, Roan Mountain, Tennessee Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 37687, Roan Mountain, Tennessee is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.05 percent of residents in 37687 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sycamore Shoals Hospital with a distance of 14.14 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Roan Mountain (ZIP Code 37687)

Roan Mountain, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee, offers breathtaking vistas and a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals considering a move to this picturesque locale, especially those managing arthritis, a crucial factor demands meticulous examination: healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the complexities of transportation options within and around ZIP code 37687, providing a comprehensive assessment of how easily one can reach essential medical care. The ability to navigate these transportation systems is paramount for maintaining quality of life when dealing with chronic pain and mobility limitations.

The very nature of arthritis, with its fluctuating pain levels and potential for limited mobility, necessitates reliable and convenient transportation to medical appointments. The ability to promptly access rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other specialists is not merely a convenience; it's a fundamental aspect of managing the disease and preventing its progression. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services, all vital components of the healthcare access puzzle.

**Navigating the Roads: A Driver's Perspective**

For those who drive, the primary routes to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, such as Johnson City and Elizabethton, are crucial. From Roan Mountain, the most direct route to Johnson City, the regional hub for medical services, is via **Highway 19E** and then connecting to **Interstate 26**. The drive typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location of the medical facility. This route offers relatively smooth driving conditions, but the mountain roads can be winding, especially during inclement weather.

Elizabethton, a closer option, is accessible via **Highway 19E** or **Highway 143**. The drive to Elizabethton generally takes around 20 to 30 minutes. This shorter distance can be a significant advantage for those with limited mobility or those who prefer to avoid longer car rides. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact these drive times.

The condition of the roads themselves is also a consideration. While the main highways are generally well-maintained, secondary roads can experience wear and tear, potentially impacting ride comfort for individuals with arthritis. The mountainous terrain also means that winter weather, including snow and ice, can significantly affect travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Offering**

Public transportation options in and around Roan Mountain are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the **ETSU Transit System**, though its routes are primarily designed to serve the needs of East Tennessee State University students and faculty. Access to these routes from Roan Mountain is extremely challenging.

The **ETSU Transit System** does not directly serve Roan Mountain. The closest access point would require a drive to a designated pick-up location, adding significant travel time and potentially requiring a transfer. Furthermore, the frequency of these routes is limited, making them less than ideal for regular medical appointments.

The **ETSU Transit System** does offer some ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the lack of direct service to Roan Mountain and the limited frequency of routes make it a less viable option for most residents, especially those with arthritis.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnson City and Elizabethton areas. However, their availability in Roan Mountain itself can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and may necessitate booking rides well in advance.

Several medical transportation services operate in the region, specifically catering to individuals with mobility limitations. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often come with a higher cost compared to ride-sharing or personal transportation.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **Care Ride:** A regional medical transport service.
* **First Call Medical Transportation:** Another option for non-emergency medical transport.

**The Arthritis Score: A Synthesis**

The "Arthritis Score" for commuting to healthcare in Roan Mountain reflects the combined challenges and opportunities. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, with drive times to major medical centers ranging from 20 minutes to an hour. Public transit is virtually nonexistent, and ride-sharing availability is uncertain. Specialized medical transportation services offer a solution, but at a higher cost.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Road Conditions:** Mountainous terrain and potential for inclement weather can impact travel.
* **Traffic:** Congestion, especially during peak hours, can increase drive times.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Reliability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Cost of Medical Transportation:** The expense of specialized medical transport.
* **Personal Mobility:** Individual mobility limitations and the ability to drive.

**Conclusion: Moving to Roan Mountain with Arthritis**

For individuals considering moving to Roan Mountain with arthritis, a thorough assessment of these transportation factors is critical. While the area offers a serene and beautiful environment, the limited healthcare access due to transportation challenges must be carefully weighed. Prospective residents should proactively research the availability and cost of medical transportation services, assess their ability to drive safely, and consider the potential impact of weather and road conditions on their ability to attend medical appointments. Careful planning and preparation are essential to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively and that the move to Roan Mountain is a positive and sustainable one.