37691, Trade, Tennessee Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 37691, Trade, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.34 percent of residents in 37691 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnson County Community Hospital with a distance of 5.76 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 37691

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human right, takes on added complexity for individuals grappling with arthritis. In ZIP Code 37691, encompassing the vibrant city of Johnson City, Tennessee, and its surrounding areas, the "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease with which residents, particularly those with mobility challenges, can access rheumatology appointments, physical therapy, and other essential services. This score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. For those considering moving to Trade, this analysis provides crucial insights into the realities of healthcare logistics.

The dominant factor influencing healthcare access in 37691 is the reliance on personal vehicles. Drive times, therefore, become paramount. The primary arteries for commuting are Interstate 26 (I-26), connecting Johnson City to Asheville and Bristol; and US Route 11E (also known as East Main Street within Johnson City), a major thoroughfare. Access to these routes is generally good, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times, exacerbating the challenges faced by arthritis sufferers.

Reaching the Johnson City Medical Center, a major healthcare hub, from various points within the ZIP code, can vary considerably. A drive from the eastern edge of the ZIP code, near the I-26 interchange, might take 15-20 minutes in light traffic, but this can easily double during rush hour. From the western reaches, near the University, the journey could be closer to 10-15 minutes. However, the condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can pose additional difficulties for individuals with arthritis, adding to the physical strain of the commute.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit a limited one. The Johnson City Transit System (JCTS) operates several bus routes within the city. The primary routes, like Route 1 (North Roan Street) and Route 2 (South Roan Street), offer some coverage. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. Moreover, while the JCTS strives to provide ADA-compliant buses with ramps and designated seating, the overall network's coverage is not extensive, leaving many residents, especially those in the more rural areas of the ZIP code, reliant on other transportation options.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, presents another layer of complexity. These services are generally available in Johnson City, offering a degree of flexibility. However, the cost of these rides can be a significant burden, especially for individuals with chronic conditions who require frequent appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during inclement weather or peak demand, can be unpredictable, potentially leading to missed appointments and increased stress.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a targeted solution for individuals with significant mobility limitations. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are specifically designed to meet the needs of patients with arthritis and other conditions. However, their availability and coverage within the ZIP code can be limited, and scheduling these services often requires advance planning.

The “Arthritis Score” for 37691, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major highways and ride-sharing services provides some accessibility, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of ride-sharing services create challenges. The availability of specialized medical transportation offers a crucial lifeline for some, but its limited scope impacts the overall score.

The physical environment itself presents further considerations. Sidewalks, especially in older parts of Johnson City, may be uneven or poorly maintained, making walking difficult for those with arthritis. Parking at medical facilities can also be a challenge, with limited accessible parking spaces and long distances to walk from parking areas to the entrance. These environmental factors add to the burden of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Trade, located in the mountainous region north of Johnson City, the healthcare access challenges are amplified. The drive to Johnson City, the nearest location with comprehensive medical services, involves navigating winding mountain roads, increasing travel times and potentially exacerbating arthritis symptoms. Public transit options are virtually non-existent in Trade, and ride-sharing services may be limited. This highlights the importance of careful consideration of healthcare access when making relocation decisions.

The overall “Arthritis Score” for 37691 would likely fall in the moderate range. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and specialized transportation services create barriers for some residents. Improving the frequency and coverage of public transit, expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and increasing the number of accessible parking spaces would significantly improve the score.

The city of Johnson City and its healthcare providers are actively working to address these challenges. Efforts to improve public transit, expand accessible infrastructure, and promote awareness of available resources are ongoing. However, the realities of geography, infrastructure, and economic factors mean that healthcare access for individuals with arthritis in 37691 remains a complex issue, demanding ongoing attention and innovation.

Ultimately, the “Arthritis Score” is not just a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals navigating the healthcare system. It underscores the importance of considering transportation and accessibility when planning for healthcare needs, especially for those with chronic conditions. For anyone considering a move to the area, understanding these factors is critical for ensuring a high quality of life and access to essential healthcare services.