38024, Dyersburg, Tennessee Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 38024, Dyersburg, Tennessee is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.36 percent of residents in 38024 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dyersburg Regional Medical Center with a distance of 0.70 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dyersburg (ZIP Code 38024)

Dyersburg, Tennessee, a charming city nestled in the heart of West Tennessee, offers a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, for individuals managing arthritis, the practicalities of daily living, particularly **transportation** to **healthcare access**, become paramount. This "Arthritis Score" write-up delves into the intricacies of getting around Dyersburg, focusing on the realities faced by those with mobility challenges. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding for anyone **moving to Dyersburg** or already residing in the area, grappling with the complexities of arthritis and its impact on their ability to reach essential medical appointments.

The core of our assessment revolves around the critical element of **transportation**. Dyersburg, while possessing a small-town charm, presents unique challenges in this domain. Public transit options are limited, and the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a holistic view of the landscape.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Dyersburg's primary arteries are US-51, a major north-south thoroughfare, and TN-104, which runs east-west. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can become a factor, especially for those with arthritis. The discomfort of prolonged sitting, coupled with the physical strain of maneuvering a vehicle, can exacerbate symptoms.

The closest major medical facilities are located in Jackson, approximately 60 miles east of Dyersburg. This journey, primarily via I-40 East, typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic. For individuals with arthritis, this drive can be arduous. The need for frequent breaks, the potential for pain flare-ups, and the fatigue associated with long-distance driving all contribute to the challenge.

Local healthcare options within Dyersburg include West Tennessee Healthcare Dyersburg Hospital, located at 1338 Hwy 51 Bypass N. Accessing this facility is generally straightforward, with most residents able to reach it within a 10-15 minute drive. However, the physical layout of the hospital, including parking accessibility and walking distances within the building, must be considered. The hospital does have designated handicap parking spaces and wheelchair accessibility, but navigating the hallways and waiting rooms can still present challenges.

Specialist appointments, such as rheumatology consultations, may require travel to Jackson or Memphis. The drive to Memphis, roughly 80 miles west via I-40 West, takes approximately 1.5 hours. This longer journey underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration of the individual's physical capabilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Unfortunately, Dyersburg's public **transportation** options are severely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the city limits. This lack of public transit significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This is a major disadvantage for individuals with arthritis, who may find driving difficult or impossible.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Dyersburg, though their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The reliance on ride-sharing can also be costly, especially for frequent medical appointments. The unpredictable nature of ride availability can also create stress and anxiety, which can worsen arthritis symptoms.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, are available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. Some of the medical transport providers that serve the area include local ambulance services that provide non-emergency medical transport.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond the challenges of **transportation**, other factors influence **healthcare access** for those with arthritis. The availability of rheumatologists and other specialists in the immediate area is a crucial consideration. While Dyersburg Hospital offers a range of medical services, specialized care may necessitate travel to Jackson or Memphis.

The physical layout of medical facilities, including parking accessibility, wheelchair access, and the distance between parking and the waiting room, also plays a role. Individuals with arthritis must consider these factors when planning their appointments.

**Moving to Dyersburg with Arthritis:**

For individuals considering **moving to Dyersburg** with arthritis, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services must be carefully considered. Proximity to medical facilities, including hospitals and specialist clinics, is also a critical factor.

**Conclusion:**

Dyersburg offers a pleasant living environment, but the **transportation** landscape presents significant challenges for individuals with arthritis. While the city boasts a local hospital, the need for specialist care may necessitate travel to Jackson or Memphis. The absence of a robust public transit system and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services require careful planning and consideration. Individuals **moving to Dyersburg** with arthritis should prioritize assessing their **transportation** options and ensuring they have reliable access to medical care. This "Arthritis Score" highlights the critical need for individuals to proactively address these challenges to maintain their health and well-being.