37357, Morrison, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37357, Morrison, Tennessee is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.12 percent of residents in 37357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 10.28 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Morrison, TN (ZIP Code 37357)

The crisp air of Morrison, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of the Volunteer State, might seem idyllic. However, for residents managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare within ZIP code 37357 presents a complex equation. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities surrounding transportation to healthcare facilities, crucial for individuals seeking effective asthma management. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Morrison or seeking improved healthcare access.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is timely access to medical attention during exacerbations. Drive times, therefore, become a critical factor. From the center of Morrison, a drive to the nearest emergency room, located at the Saint Thomas Stones River Hospital in Woodbury, typically takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey primarily involves navigating **Highway 70S** and then **Highway 53**. While relatively straightforward, the potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or due to accidents, can significantly impact the time it takes to receive critical care.

Specialist appointments, such as pulmonologists or allergists, often necessitate travel to larger cities like Murfreesboro or Chattanooga. A trip to Murfreesboro, home to facilities like Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This route utilizes **Highway 70S** to **Interstate 24 East**. The interstate offers faster travel, but potential delays due to accidents or construction are always a consideration.

For those requiring specialized care in Chattanooga, the drive extends to approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via **Interstate 24 East**. This longer journey underscores the importance of planning and preparedness, especially for individuals with severe asthma. The distance emphasizes the need for reliable transportation and the potential challenges faced by those without personal vehicles.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 37357 are limited. There is no established public bus system operating directly within Morrison. The closest public transit options may be found in surrounding areas, such as Woodbury or McMinnville, but these services are generally infrequent and do not directly serve Morrison. These routes are not ADA compliant, and this lack of accessibility poses a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations, including those experiencing asthma-related breathing difficulties.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Morrison, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. While these services offer a potential solution for transportation, their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. The cost of regular ride-sharing trips to medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the area. These services are designed to provide transportation for individuals who are unable to drive themselves to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and pre-authorization from insurance providers may be required. Furthermore, the availability of NEMT services may be limited, especially during peak demand or in rural areas.

The availability of these services is critical for individuals experiencing asthma exacerbations. Delays in accessing medical care can lead to serious health complications, highlighting the importance of readily available and reliable transportation options.

The "Asthma Score" for Morrison, TN (37357) is therefore significantly influenced by the relative lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services. While the drive times to emergency care are manageable, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limited availability of alternative transportation options pose significant challenges for individuals managing asthma.

For those considering moving to Morrison, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Individuals with severe asthma should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the reliability of transportation options before making a move. This includes assessing the availability of personal vehicles, the potential cost of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport services.

Improving healthcare access for asthma sufferers in Morrison requires a multi-faceted approach. Efforts to expand public transportation options, particularly those that are ADA compliant, would significantly improve healthcare access. Collaboration between local healthcare providers, community organizations, and transportation providers could help to create innovative solutions, such as subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical transport services.

Furthermore, increasing awareness about asthma management and providing education on transportation resources are crucial. This includes educating residents about the availability of emergency services, the importance of having a personal asthma action plan, and the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare in a rural setting.

In conclusion, while Morrison offers a peaceful environment, the "Asthma Score" reveals potential challenges for individuals managing asthma. The distance to specialized medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services highlight the importance of careful planning and preparedness. Addressing these challenges through improved transportation infrastructure, community partnerships, and increased awareness is critical to ensuring that residents of Morrison, TN (37357) have equitable access to the healthcare they need.