37028, Bumpus Mills, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37028, Bumpus Mills, Tennessee is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.26 percent of residents in 37028 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Houston County Community Hospital with a distance of 23.30 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bumpus Mills, TN (ZIP Code 37028)**

The crisp air of Bumpus Mills, Tennessee, a community nestled near the Kentucky border, offers a certain rural charm. But for individuals managing asthma, the very location that promises tranquility can present a significant challenge: accessing timely and reliable healthcare. This analysis explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 37028, evaluating its impact on healthcare access, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Bumpus Mills or already residing there. We will consider the various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their implications for individuals with asthma, ultimately assigning an “Asthma Score” reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching necessary medical care.

Our investigation centers on the primary medical facilities serving the area, including Tennova Healthcare – Clarksville and Vanderbilt Primary Care Clarksville. These facilities are located outside the immediate vicinity of Bumpus Mills, necessitating travel. The Asthma Score will reflect the challenges posed by distance, traffic, and the availability of alternative transportation methods.

**Personal Vehicle: The Primary Mode**

For most residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The journey to healthcare facilities from Bumpus Mills predominantly involves navigating a network of roads and highways. The most direct route to Clarksville typically utilizes US-79. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The drive, covering approximately 20 miles, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

The route to Nashville, where Vanderbilt Primary Care Clarksville is located, involves a longer journey. Residents would likely utilize US-79 to I-24 East. This drive, roughly 70 miles, can take upwards of an hour and a half, potentially longer during rush hour or adverse weather conditions. The extended travel time poses a significant concern for asthma sufferers, as prolonged exposure to potential triggers within a vehicle, such as allergens or air pollutants, can exacerbate symptoms.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the area are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Clarksville Transit System (CTS) provides bus service within the city of Clarksville, but routes extending to Bumpus Mills are nonexistent. This lack of public transit effectively isolates residents of 37028, particularly those unable to drive or without access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of public transit disproportionately affects individuals with asthma who may be unable to drive due to their condition or other limitations. Furthermore, the lack of ADA-accessible public transit options further restricts healthcare access for individuals with mobility challenges, compounding the difficulties already faced by asthma sufferers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Potential Alternatives**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, their availability in rural areas like Bumpus Mills can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical visits. For asthma patients, the enclosed environment of a ride-share vehicle presents potential risks, including exposure to allergens or irritants.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedTrans Corporation may operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to individuals requiring assistance with mobility or those who cannot drive. However, availability and cost remain crucial factors to consider. The Asthma Score will reflect the impact of these services on healthcare access.

**Environmental Considerations: Air Quality and Asthma Triggers**

Beyond transportation, environmental factors play a crucial role in managing asthma. Air quality, particularly during certain seasons, can significantly impact respiratory health. The presence of pollen, mold spores, and other airborne allergens can trigger asthma attacks. The location of Bumpus Mills, with its proximity to agricultural areas and potential for seasonal pollen blooms, necessitates careful attention to air quality monitoring and preventative measures.

The design and maintenance of roadways also influence air quality. Vehicle emissions contribute to air pollution, which can worsen asthma symptoms. The presence of idling vehicles, especially during traffic congestion, can increase exposure to harmful pollutants. The Asthma Score will incorporate the impact of these environmental factors on healthcare access.

**The Asthma Score: A Comprehensive Assessment**

The Asthma Score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 37028 will be based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging conditions and 10 representing the most favorable.

* **Drive Times:** The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion on US-79 and I-24, warrants a moderate score. The longer travel times to Nashville further diminish the score.
* **Public Transit:** The complete absence of public transit significantly lowers the score. The lack of accessible options compounds the challenges.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:** The potential for inconsistent availability and the cost of ride-share services, combined with the need to verify the availability of medical transportation, warrants a moderate rating.
* **Environmental Factors:** The potential for seasonal allergens and air pollution contributes to a lower score.

Considering these factors, the Asthma Score for commuting to healthcare in Bumpus Mills, TN (ZIP code 37028) is a **4 out of 10**. This score reflects the significant challenges faced by asthma sufferers in accessing timely and reliable medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the potential for environmental triggers create a complex landscape.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Bumpus Mills**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Bumpus Mills, careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access is paramount. Prospective residents should:

* Assess their ability to drive and maintain a reliable vehicle.
* Investigate the availability and cost of ride-share or medical transportation services.
* Familiarize themselves with local healthcare facilities and their proximity to the area.
* Monitor air quality reports and develop strategies to manage potential triggers.
* Consult with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive asthma management plan that considers transportation and environmental factors.

The challenges posed by transportation limitations and environmental factors highlight the importance of proactive planning and healthcare management for asthma sufferers residing in Bumpus Mills. The Asthma Score underscores the need for individuals to carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options before making a move to the area.