38551, Celina, Tennessee Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 38551, Celina, Tennessee is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.55 percent of residents in 38551 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Livingston Regional Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Celina, TN (ZIP Code 38551)

Considering a move to Celina, Tennessee (ZIP code 38551) and managing arthritis? This analysis, a "Arthritis Score," assesses the accessibility of healthcare, particularly rheumatology services, factoring in transportation options. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for those seeking accessible healthcare. This is crucial information for anyone considering relocation, especially individuals with mobility challenges.

Celina, a charming town nestled in the heart of Clay County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges concerning healthcare access. The Arthritis Score considers these factors, providing a practical guide for navigating the local healthcare landscape. Understanding these nuances is paramount for individuals managing arthritis and considering a move to this area.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

Driving is the primary mode of transportation in Celina. The town's relative isolation means that access to specialized medical care often requires venturing outside the immediate vicinity. The primary routes for accessing healthcare involve navigating the local roads and highways.

The most direct route to larger medical centers typically involves traveling on **Tennessee State Route 52**. This highway, though generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around the towns of Cookeville and Lafayette. Drive times to these locations are essential to consider when evaluating healthcare access.

For instance, a trip to Cookeville Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive, depending on traffic. This journey necessitates navigating **SR-52** and connecting to **Interstate 40 (I-40)**. The interstate offers a faster route, but potential traffic delays, especially during inclement weather, must be considered.

Lafayette, Tennessee, located approximately 30 minutes south of Celina via **SR-52**, provides access to smaller clinics and specialized medical services. However, the road conditions on **SR-52** can vary, with some sections exhibiting curves and inclines that might pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

Furthermore, the condition of secondary roads, such as **SR-85** and county roads, should be factored in. These roads can be narrow and winding, potentially exacerbating travel difficulties. The Arthritis Score considers these factors to provide a realistic assessment of transportation challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Celina are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system offering regular routes. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to secure reliable transportation.

The absence of a robust public transit system emphasizes the reliance on private vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. This limitation directly impacts the Arthritis Score, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

It is crucial to note the lack of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant public transit in Celina. This further restricts healthcare access for individuals with disabilities, making it even more challenging to attend medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in Celina. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not advisable.

Medical transport services offer a more reliable solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Some reputable medical transport brands that may serve Celina include: First Choice Medical Transport, and Care Ride. However, availability and pricing can vary, so it is essential to research and book these services in advance.

Additionally, some local ambulance services provide non-emergency transportation, though their primary focus is emergency medical care. This option should be explored, but it might be more expensive than dedicated NEMT services.

**Healthcare Access and the Arthritis Score:**

The Arthritis Score is a composite measure reflecting the ease of accessing rheumatology and related healthcare services in Celina. It considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport.

The score is weighted, giving more importance to drive times to specialized care and the availability of reliable transportation options. The lack of public transit and the limited ride-sharing options significantly lower the score.

Individuals considering a move to Celina should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of medical services. Pre-planning and securing reliable transportation are critical for managing arthritis and maintaining access to healthcare.

The Arthritis Score for Celina, TN, is moderate. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limited transportation options present challenges. Individuals with arthritis need to proactively address transportation concerns to ensure access to necessary medical care.

**Recommendations for Moving to Celina with Arthritis:**

Before moving, research local medical transport providers and establish a relationship. Consider the proximity to Cookeville and Lafayette, which offer more comprehensive healthcare options. Ensure your vehicle is reliable and well-maintained, and consider a backup plan for transportation during inclement weather.

Furthermore, explore telehealth options for routine appointments and consultations. Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent travel, improving healthcare access.

Finally, connect with local support groups or organizations that offer assistance with transportation or other services for individuals with disabilities. These resources can provide invaluable support and help navigate the healthcare landscape in Celina.