37359, Mulberry, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37359, Mulberry, Tennessee is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.76 percent of residents in 37359 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincoln Medical Center with a distance of 9.58 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mulberry, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37359)

The crisp air of Mulberry, Tennessee, nestled in the rolling hills of Lincoln County, might seem idyllic. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing quality healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 37359, evaluating its impact on healthcare access and assigning an “Asthma Score” based on the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services.

The Asthma Score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, all crucial elements in ensuring timely treatment and management of this chronic respiratory condition. The higher the score, the better the access to healthcare.

**The Geographical Context:** Mulberry, a small unincorporated community, presents unique challenges. Its rural setting means healthcare facilities are not immediately accessible. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in larger towns like Winchester, Tullahoma, and Fayetteville. This necessitates reliance on various transportation options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, particularly for those with asthma.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode of Transportation**

For most residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor in our Asthma Score assessment.

To reach the nearest major hospital, Southern Tennessee Regional Health System in Winchester, the most direct route is via **Highway 64** East, followed by a turn onto **Highway 127** North. The drive typically takes approximately 25-30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This is a reasonable commute, offering a relatively quick route to emergency care and specialized services.

Traveling to Tennova Healthcare – Harton in Tullahoma involves a slightly longer journey. The most common route is also via **Highway 64** East, but then a turn onto **Highway 41A** North is required. This drive generally takes about 35-40 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially during peak hours or in case of an asthma exacerbation.

Fayetteville, home to Lincoln Medical Center, is accessible via **Highway 64** West. The drive is generally around 20-25 minutes.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles. For individuals without access to a car, or those unable to drive due to their condition, the situation becomes considerably more complex.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Mulberry are extremely limited. Lincoln County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The nearest public transportation options are located in larger towns like Tullahoma. However, these systems typically do not extend to Mulberry and are often infrequent.

The absence of reliable public transit significantly impacts the Asthma Score. The lack of accessible and affordable public transportation leaves individuals reliant on alternative options, which can be costly or unreliable.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for individuals without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Mulberry is often unpredictable. The wait times can be significant, and the cost can be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available but are typically reserved for specific situations. Ambulances are for emergencies, while NEMT services are for individuals who cannot drive but do not require emergency medical care. These services, while essential, can be costly and require prior arrangements.

**ADA Accessibility:**

It is important to note that any public transportation options or ride-sharing services must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means vehicles should be accessible to individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. However, the availability and reliability of ADA-compliant services in Mulberry are limited.

**The Asthma Score: A Calculated Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, we assign an Asthma Score to ZIP Code 37359. The score reflects the overall ease of access to healthcare facilities for individuals managing asthma.

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive times to hospitals in Winchester, Tullahoma, and Fayetteville contribute positively to the score. However, the reliance on personal vehicles is a significant drawback.
* **Public Transit:** The complete lack of public transportation severely diminishes the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The potential for ride-sharing services offers some relief, but their limited availability and cost concerns are a negative factor.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but their cost and limited scope restrict their impact on the overall score.

**The Final Score:**

Based on this analysis, the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 37359 is a **5 out of 10**. This score reflects the challenges faced by individuals with asthma in accessing healthcare. While the drive times are reasonable, the lack of public transportation and the uncertainties surrounding ride-sharing services create significant barriers.

**Moving to Mulberry: Considerations for Asthma Sufferers**

For individuals considering moving to Mulberry with asthma, this score highlights the importance of careful planning.

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost essential.
* **Emergency Planning:** Develop a detailed emergency plan, including transportation options and contact information for medical transport services.
* **Insurance:** Ensure adequate health insurance coverage to cover potential transportation costs.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities when choosing a home.
* **Community Support:** Explore local support networks and community resources for individuals with asthma.

Living in Mulberry offers a peaceful and scenic environment, but those with asthma must be aware of the transportation limitations and plan accordingly. The Asthma Score serves as a crucial tool for understanding the healthcare access landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. As the community grows, advocating for improved public transit options and ride-sharing availability will be critical to enhancing healthcare access for all residents.