37355, Manchester, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37355, Manchester, Tennessee is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.84 percent of residents in 37355 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 0.77 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37355 (Manchester, TN)**

Relocating to Manchester, Tennessee (ZIP code 37355), a town nestled in the heart of Coffee County, presents a unique set of considerations, especially for individuals managing asthma. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, factoring in various transportation options, which directly impacts asthma management and quality of life. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care during an asthma exacerbation is paramount, making transportation a crucial element in the overall "Asthma Score" for this area.

Manchester's relative isolation, while part of its charm, influences healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are located in Murfreesboro and Chattanooga, requiring careful planning and consideration of travel times. The primary roads serving Manchester are Interstate 24 (I-24), a major east-west artery, and US Highway 41, a north-south route. These highways become vital lifelines when healthcare access is needed.

Driving times form the foundation of our assessment. From central Manchester, driving to Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital in Murfreesboro, a primary healthcare destination, typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves I-24 East. Similarly, Erlanger Health System in Chattanooga, another major healthcare provider, is approximately a 1.5- to 2-hour drive via I-24 East and I-75 South. These drive times, while manageable under normal circumstances, become critical during an asthma attack. Delays due to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or incidents, could significantly impact patient outcomes.

Public transportation options in Manchester are limited. Coffee County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. The absence of readily available buses or trains severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This deficiency significantly lowers the "Asthma Score" for individuals who rely on public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, though their availability and affordability in Manchester are variable. While these services can provide a convenient means of transportation, particularly for scheduled appointments, their response times during emergencies may be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to Murfreesboro or Chattanooga, can also be a barrier for some residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, present another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) may be available in the area. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with medical needs. However, the availability of NEMT services and the associated costs must be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access.

For individuals with asthma, the immediacy of healthcare access is crucial. The ability to quickly reach a medical facility during an asthma attack can be the difference between a minor setback and a life-threatening emergency. The lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can create anxiety for asthma sufferers.

The availability of local urgent care clinics and primary care physicians in Manchester is a positive factor. These facilities can provide immediate care for less severe asthma symptoms and offer ongoing management and medication refills. However, the ability to access specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, often requires travel to larger medical centers.

The "Asthma Score" for Manchester, therefore, is influenced by several factors. The primary concern is the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to traffic. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access. While the presence of local clinics and physicians provides a degree of immediate care, the need for specialized treatment often necessitates longer travel times.

The decision to move to Manchester requires a careful evaluation of these transportation challenges. Individuals with asthma should consider the potential for delays, the cost of transportation, and the availability of emergency services. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and understanding the available transportation options, is essential for successful asthma management.

The "Asthma Score" can be improved through several measures. Encouraging the development of a more comprehensive public transportation system, including routes to Murfreesboro and Chattanooga, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Promoting the availability of ride-sharing services and subsidizing transportation costs for low-income individuals would also be beneficial. Furthermore, educating residents about asthma management and emergency protocols is crucial.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Manchester reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the town offers a welcoming environment and a sense of community, individuals with asthma must carefully assess the transportation challenges and develop strategies to ensure timely access to medical care. A thorough understanding of the available options, coupled with proactive planning, is key to thriving in Manchester while managing asthma.