37335, Flintville, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37335, Flintville, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.55 percent of residents in 37335 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincoln Medical Center with a distance of 10.12 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Flintville, TN (ZIP Code 37335)

The crisp air of Flintville, Tennessee, nestled in the rolling hills of Lincoln County, beckons with the promise of a slower pace. But for those managing asthma, the allure of rural tranquility must be balanced with the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 37335, evaluating the accessibility of medical care, a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Flintville. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, offering a comprehensive overview of the journey to healthcare.

The foundation of healthcare access in Flintville rests upon its reliance on personal vehicles. The sprawling nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit, dictates that the majority of residents depend on cars for transportation. Evaluating drive times to medical facilities becomes paramount.

The primary artery connecting Flintville to nearby healthcare providers is **Highway 64**. This east-west thoroughfare offers relatively direct access to Fayetteville, the county seat, where you'll find Lincoln Medical Center. A drive to the hospital from the heart of Flintville typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this commute could extend, impacting the timely delivery of essential asthma medications or urgent care.

Another important route is **Highway 231**, which provides a north-south connection. This highway offers access to medical facilities in the neighboring towns and cities, such as Lynchburg and Tullahoma. The drive to Lynchburg, home to some primary care physicians, is approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Tullahoma, with its broader range of specialists, is about a 45-minute drive. These longer distances underscore the importance of having a reliable vehicle and considering potential delays when planning healthcare appointments.

Beyond the main highways, the network of county roads and local streets plays a vital role in navigating to healthcare. Roads like **Shelbyville Highway** and **Cowan Highway** provide access to various clinics and medical offices. However, these routes can be winding and less well-maintained, potentially increasing travel time and posing challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing asthma exacerbations.

Public transportation options in Flintville are extremely limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access. There is no dedicated public bus system that directly serves the area. This lack of public transportation creates a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, or those who cannot afford a personal vehicle.

While there is no formal public transit system, the possibility of paratransit services, specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, may exist. These services typically require advance booking and are often limited in their operational hours and geographic coverage. Residents with disabilities should investigate whether such services are available in Lincoln County and what specific requirements and limitations apply. Contacting the Lincoln County government or the local social services agency is the best way to explore these options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have expanded their presence in many areas. However, their availability in rural areas like Flintville can be inconsistent. The frequency of service may be lower than in more urban areas, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather could make these options cost-prohibitive. Checking the availability of ride-sharing services and the associated costs is essential before relying on them for healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another potential option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the broader region, but their availability and coverage in Flintville should be verified. These companies usually require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria.

The "Asthma Score" for Flintville, considering the available transportation options, reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to Fayetteville and Lincoln Medical Center offers a degree of healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the absence of robust public transit pose significant challenges, especially for those with asthma.

The drive times, though generally manageable, are subject to traffic and weather conditions. The limited availability of ride-sharing services and the potential for high costs can be a significant hurdle. The lack of public transit, coupled with the potential limitations of paratransit services, creates a barrier for individuals who cannot drive.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Flintville, careful planning is essential. Prioritizing a reliable vehicle and understanding the potential for delays in transportation are crucial. Investigating the availability and limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also vital.

Furthermore, individuals with asthma should consider the availability of local pharmacies and the ease of obtaining asthma medications. Proximity to a pharmacy that carries a wide range of medications and offers convenient prescription refills can significantly improve healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Flintville offers the charm of rural living, the transportation landscape presents challenges for healthcare access, particularly for individuals with asthma. A thorough assessment of transportation options, including drive times, the potential for ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport, is crucial for anyone considering moving to this area. Proactive planning and a clear understanding of the healthcare access environment are essential for ensuring timely and effective medical care. The Asthma Score for Flintville, therefore, emphasizes the importance of meticulous preparation and a proactive approach to healthcare management.