37317, Copperhill, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37317, Copperhill, Tennessee is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.66 percent of residents in 37317 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 28.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Copperhill (ZIP Code 37317)

The crisp mountain air of Copperhill, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37317), might seem idyllic, yet for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare is a crucial consideration. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, examining the transportation landscape to healthcare facilities, vital for those contemplating a move or already residing in this unique Appalachian community. The score will weigh factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transport options, painting a picture of the ease – or difficulty – in reaching essential medical care.

The primary healthcare hub for Copperhill residents is often located in nearby communities, necessitating travel. Driving is the most common mode of transportation. Therefore, the condition of roads and the distance to medical facilities are paramount. From Copperhill, a drive to the nearest major hospital, CHI Memorial Hospital of Copperhill, located in Copperhill, Tennessee, is generally straightforward. The journey is short, often less than 5 minutes, utilizing local roads.

For specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger hospitals in Cleveland, Tennessee, or even Chattanooga, Tennessee. The drive to Cleveland typically involves navigating US-64 East, a well-maintained highway. The journey can take approximately an hour, depending on traffic. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning for asthma sufferers, ensuring they have their medication and are prepared for potential triggers along the way.

Reaching Chattanooga, a larger metropolitan area with a wider range of specialists, requires a longer drive. The route primarily involves US-64 East to I-75 North, a major interstate highway. This trip can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Chattanooga. This longer commute underscores the importance of pre-planning, especially for individuals with severe asthma.

Public transportation options in Copperhill are limited. The local Copperhill Transit Authority, if it exists, may offer limited routes, but they are unlikely to connect directly to hospitals outside of Copperhill. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. The lack of robust public transit necessitates reliance on other methods for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Copperhill area, but availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be problematic. The cost of these services can also add up, impacting the financial burden of healthcare access. This is a factor that should be considered when evaluating transportation options.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited. The reliance on these services highlights the need for a strong support network or a proactive approach to healthcare planning.

For individuals with asthma, the choice of where to live significantly impacts their healthcare access. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternatives pose challenges. The drive times to specialized care in Cleveland or Chattanooga are considerable, necessitating careful planning and preparation.

The Asthma Score for Copperhill (ZIP Code 37317) is therefore negatively impacted by the transportation limitations. The score is influenced by the distance to healthcare facilities, the lack of robust public transit, and the reliance on potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transport services. This score is a crucial consideration for anyone with asthma contemplating moving to Copperhill or already residing in the area.

The score is further affected by the potential for environmental triggers along the commute routes. Pollen counts, air quality, and other environmental factors can vary, exacerbating asthma symptoms. The need for individuals to be prepared for these potential triggers during their commute is paramount.

The ability to quickly access emergency medical care is a vital aspect of the Asthma Score. The response time of emergency services, including ambulance availability and transport times to the nearest hospital, is critical. This is a factor that should be investigated by anyone considering a move to Copperhill.

Furthermore, the availability of asthma specialists and respiratory therapists in the local area is a critical factor. The need for regular check-ups and specialized care can be difficult if these resources are not readily accessible. This is a key consideration for individuals with moderate to severe asthma.

The lack of readily available transportation options in Copperhill presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternatives impacts healthcare access and the overall quality of life. This is a factor that should be carefully considered when evaluating the suitability of Copperhill for individuals with asthma.

The Asthma Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the practical realities of living with asthma in a specific location. It highlights the importance of proactive planning, a strong support network, and a thorough understanding of the local transportation and healthcare landscape. This information is vital for anyone considering a move to Copperhill or already residing in the area, ensuring they can effectively manage their asthma and maintain their quality of life.

The final Asthma Score for Copperhill (ZIP Code 37317) reflects a moderate challenge. While the immediate access to CHI Memorial Hospital of Copperhill is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the longer drive times to specialized care in Cleveland and Chattanooga pose significant hurdles. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone with asthma contemplating a move to or already living in Copperhill.