37160, Shelbyville, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37160, Shelbyville, Tennessee is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.43 percent of residents in 37160 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital with a distance of 5.62 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Shelbyville (ZIP Code 37160)

Relocating to a new city, especially with the added complexity of managing asthma, demands meticulous planning. This report provides a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment for transportation and healthcare access in Shelbyville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37160), offering insights for individuals and families considering a move to this community. We'll delve into the realities of navigating the city, focusing on the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care, all critical components for managing asthma effectively. The goal is to provide a clear picture of available transportation options and their suitability for individuals with respiratory sensitivities.

The "Asthma Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering factors that influence accessibility and convenience. These include drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of specialized medical transport services. We'll evaluate each category, providing a realistic understanding of the challenges and advantages of each transportation method. The ultimate aim is to empower individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being when considering a move to Shelbyville.

**Driving the Distance: Roads and Routes**

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in Shelbyville, offering a degree of control and flexibility often essential for individuals with asthma. However, traffic, road conditions, and distance to healthcare facilities must be carefully considered. Key roadways include the major artery of **U.S. Route 231**, also known as Madison Street, which runs north-south through the city. This route provides access to various businesses and services, including some medical offices.

**State Route 64**, also known as the Shelbyville Bypass, provides east-west access, connecting to the more rural areas surrounding the city. This bypass can be beneficial for avoiding congestion within Shelbyville, but it also adds distance to some destinations. The drive times will vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions, which can be unpredictable, particularly during peak commuting hours.

For example, a drive from the central part of Shelbyville to the nearest hospital, **Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital** in Murfreesboro, located approximately 30 miles away, will take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic on **U.S. Route 231** and **I-24**. This distance and travel time are significant considerations for those requiring regular medical attention or experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

**Navigating Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Shelbyville are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals who rely on this mode of transportation. There is no dedicated public bus system within the city. This lack of comprehensive public transit severely restricts healthcare access for those unable to drive or who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a robust public transportation network means that individuals with asthma may face significant difficulties in accessing medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential services. This lack of accessibility can contribute to increased stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms. For those considering a move, this limitation necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or relying on friends and family. However, their availability and affordability in Shelbyville may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Ride-sharing services can be a viable option for short trips to local medical offices or pharmacies, but the cost can quickly add up, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, can be a crucial resource. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation to and from medical appointments. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they can offer a higher level of comfort, safety, and support for individuals with asthma.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **CareRide:** This service offers non-emergency medical transportation, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.
* **MediRide:** Similar to CareRide, MediRide provides transportation to medical appointments and other healthcare-related destinations.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

The availability of healthcare facilities and services within Shelbyville is a crucial factor in the "Asthma Score." The closest hospital, **Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital**, is located in Murfreesboro, requiring a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour. While Shelbyville has local medical clinics and urgent care facilities, these may not always offer the specialized care needed for managing asthma.

**Local Healthcare Options:**

* **Shelbyville Internal Medicine:** This clinic provides primary care services, including asthma management.
* **Family Medical Center of Shelbyville:** Offers a range of healthcare services, including treatment for respiratory conditions.

The distance to a full-service hospital and the limited availability of specialized asthma care within Shelbyville highlight the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access when considering a move.

**Pharmacies and Essential Services:**

Access to pharmacies is another critical element in managing asthma. Shelbyville has several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS, as well as local pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription refills, over-the-counter medications, and other essential healthcare products. The availability of pharmacies within a reasonable distance is generally good in Shelbyville, but it is important to consider the accessibility of these locations, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Considerations for Moving to Shelbyville**

The "Asthma Score" for Shelbyville (ZIP Code 37160) reveals a mixed picture. While the city offers a relatively low cost of living and a close-knit community, the limited public transportation, the distance to specialized healthcare facilities, and the potential for unpredictable traffic conditions pose challenges for individuals with asthma.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation, necessitating a reliable vehicle and the ability to navigate local roads. Ride-sharing services and medical transport can fill some gaps, but they come with associated costs. Careful consideration of healthcare access, including the availability of specialized asthma care and the distance to emergency services, is essential.

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Shelbyville, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and priorities is crucial. Evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact of environmental factors on asthma symptoms will help determine whether Shelbyville is a suitable location. The "Asthma Score" serves as a starting point, encouraging a proactive approach to healthcare planning and ensuring that individuals with asthma can thrive in their new community.