38574, Monterey, Tennessee Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 38574, Monterey, Tennessee is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.11 percent of residents in 38574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cumberland Medical Center with a distance of 17.47 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Monterey, TN (ZIP Code 38574)

Considering a move to Monterey, Tennessee (ZIP code 38574), and managing arthritis? Access to healthcare, especially for those with mobility challenges, is a critical consideration. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the accessibility of rheumatology and related healthcare services, focusing on transportation options from various points within the ZIP code. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of how easily you can commute to healthcare.

Monterey, nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, presents unique transportation challenges. The town itself is relatively small, but access to specialized medical care often requires travel to larger cities. This is especially pertinent for arthritis sufferers, who may need regular appointments, physical therapy, and access to specialized treatments. The "Arthritis Score" aims to help you understand the transportation landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Monterey is Interstate 40 (I-40), running east-west. This highway connects Monterey to major medical centers in Knoxville (east) and Nashville (west). Driving to Knoxville, home to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, will take approximately 2 hours, covering about 120 miles. Expect to travel on I-40 East.

Nashville, with its numerous hospitals and specialized clinics, is roughly 90 miles west, a drive of about 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-40 West. This is a crucial consideration, as Nashville offers a wider range of rheumatology specialists and treatment options.

Closer to home, Cookeville Regional Medical Center, located about 15 miles west on I-40 West, provides general medical services and some specialized care. The drive is typically under 20 minutes, making it a more accessible option for urgent needs or routine check-ups.

Within Monterey, local roads like Highway 70 (running east-west) and Highway 62 (running north-south) offer access to local pharmacies, primary care physicians, and physical therapy clinics. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be slow during peak hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Monterey is extremely limited. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides some demand-response transportation services, but these are not a reliable option for regular medical appointments. These services require advance booking and may not be available at all times. Moreover, the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles is limited.

Therefore, relying on public transit for healthcare access in Monterey is not recommended. Individuals with arthritis, particularly those with mobility limitations, will find this option highly challenging. The lack of frequent routes and the need for advance booking create significant barriers to healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Monterey, but their availability is sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. Relying on these services for scheduled appointments is risky, as wait times can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services offer a more reliable alternative for those unable to drive or use public transit. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services require pre-booking and can be costly, but they offer a guaranteed ride to and from medical appointments. They also offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles, catering to the needs of arthritis sufferers.

**Healthcare Access and the "Arthritis Score"**

The "Arthritis Score" for Monterey (38574) reflects the challenges presented by the transportation landscape. While the town offers local primary care and pharmacy services, accessing specialized rheumatology care necessitates longer travel times. The reliance on personal vehicles or pre-booked medical transport adds to the complexity.

For individuals with arthritis considering moving to Monterey, careful planning is essential. Proximity to I-40 is a significant advantage, allowing relatively easy access to larger medical centers. However, factors like the availability of reliable transportation, the cost of medical transport, and the potential for unexpected delays should be carefully considered.

**Moving to Monterey: Making Informed Decisions**

When moving to Monterey, prioritize healthcare access. Research the availability of rheumatologists and related specialists in nearby cities like Cookeville, Nashville, and Knoxville. Consider the cost and reliability of medical transport services. Assess the feasibility of relying on family, friends, or community support for transportation.

Furthermore, investigate the availability of home healthcare services, which can reduce the need for frequent travel. Ensure your chosen housing location provides easy access to major roadways and essential services.

Monterey offers a peaceful lifestyle, but its remoteness presents transportation challenges. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals with arthritis can make informed decisions and ensure they have access to the healthcare they need. The "Arthritis Score" serves as a guide, highlighting the critical factors to consider when evaluating healthcare access in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.