37356, Monteagle, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37356, Monteagle, Tennessee is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.67 percent of residents in 37356 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southern Tennessee Regional Hlth System Winchester with a distance of 15.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Monteagle, TN (ZIP Code 37356)

The crisp mountain air of Monteagle, Tennessee, nestled within ZIP code 37356, offers a respite from urban clamor, a draw for those seeking a slower pace of life. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of **healthcare access**. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, examines the **transportation** landscape and its impact on accessing essential medical care, a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Monteagle** or already residing within its embrace.

Our analysis focuses on the practical realities of reaching healthcare providers, including drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** solutions. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the accessibility challenges and opportunities for asthma sufferers in this picturesque, yet geographically isolated, community.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Monteagle is Interstate 24 (I-24), the major east-west corridor. Driving eastward, the nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in Chattanooga, approximately 70 miles away. A typical drive on I-24, assuming moderate traffic conditions, takes around one hour and fifteen minutes. This drive time can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic volume, weather conditions, and the time of day.

Alternatively, traveling westward on I-24 leads to Nashville, a longer journey of approximately 90 miles. The drive time, usually around one hour and forty-five minutes, can be extended considerably during peak hours. Both directions, however, necessitate reliance on a personal vehicle, making the journey less accessible for individuals who do not drive or do not have reliable access to a car.

Within Monteagle itself, the primary roads are US-41 and TN-56. These routes offer access to local businesses and services, but they do not connect directly to major healthcare facilities. Driving on these roads can be slower due to the winding mountain terrain and potential for inclement weather, further extending travel times.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Monteagle and the surrounding areas. The Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency (SETHRA) provides demand-response **transportation** services, including ADA-compliant vehicles. However, these services require advance booking and are primarily designed for essential trips, such as medical appointments. The availability of these services can be limited, and the travel times are often significantly longer than private vehicle travel.

The nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Chattanooga. This option, while available, requires a transfer from Monteagle, adding considerable travel time and complexity. The infrequent schedule and potential for delays make it a less desirable option for individuals with asthma, especially during a medical emergency.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Monteagle, although their availability is not guaranteed. The limited driver pool and the potential for surge pricing during peak demand periods can make these services expensive and unreliable, particularly for routine medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are available. These services are crucial in emergency situations, but the cost can be substantial. The response time of an ambulance to Monteagle may be longer than in more densely populated areas. NEMT services, often provided by companies like First Transit or Med-Ride, are designed for non-emergency medical appointments and can be a more affordable option than ride-sharing, but they still require advance booking and may involve longer travel times.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Monteagle presents challenges for asthma sufferers. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care, coupled with limited public **transportation** options, creates a potential barrier to timely and consistent medical attention. The need for advance planning and coordination, especially for those without personal vehicles, underscores the importance of proactive **healthcare access** strategies.

For individuals **moving to Monteagle** with asthma, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is paramount. This includes evaluating the reliability of their personal vehicle, the availability of family or friends for assistance, and the feasibility of utilizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

Furthermore, establishing a strong relationship with a local primary care physician is crucial. The physician can provide ongoing asthma management, prescribe necessary medications, and help coordinate referrals to specialists in Chattanooga or Nashville.

The Asthma Score for Monteagle, TN (37356) reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural environment. While the natural beauty of the area is undeniable, the limited **transportation** options and the distance to specialized medical facilities necessitate careful planning and proactive management for individuals with asthma. This assessment underscores the importance of considering these factors when making **moving to Monteagle** decisions.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of strategies: a reliable personal vehicle, a strong primary care provider, a pre-arranged plan for medical **transportation** when needed, and a well-stocked supply of asthma medications. This approach can mitigate the challenges of **healthcare access** and allow individuals with asthma to thrive in the unique environment of Monteagle.