37367, Pikeville, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37367, Pikeville, Tennessee is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.36 percent of residents in 37367 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Erlanger Bledsoe Hospital with a distance of 3.42 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pikeville, TN (ZIP Code 37367)

The crisp mountain air of Pikeville, Tennessee, offers a picturesque setting for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility of this rural community must be balanced with the realities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 37367, evaluating the ease of reaching essential medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Pikeville.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is timely access to care during an exacerbation. This necessitates a reliable transportation network, capable of swiftly connecting patients to emergency rooms, pulmonologists, and pharmacies. Pikeville, nestled in Bledsoe County, presents unique challenges in this regard, as the region's infrastructure is less developed than in more urban areas. The availability of transportation options directly impacts healthcare access, influencing the overall quality of life for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Pikeville. The primary artery connecting Pikeville to the wider world is **Highway 127**. This road provides access to the larger cities of Chattanooga and Knoxville, where specialized asthma care is more readily available. A drive to Chattanooga, the closest major metropolitan area with comprehensive healthcare facilities, typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes. This drive involves navigating the winding roads of Highway 127, which can be challenging during inclement weather.

Another crucial route is **Highway 30**, offering access to Dayton, Tennessee, a smaller town with some medical services. The drive to Dayton is significantly shorter, usually taking about thirty minutes. This proximity makes Dayton a more accessible option for routine check-ups and medication refills. However, the availability of specialized asthma care in Dayton is limited compared to Chattanooga.

Within Pikeville itself, local roads like **Main Street** and **Spring Street** provide access to the town's medical clinics and pharmacies. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion can be a factor, particularly during peak hours. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and maintenance for individuals managing asthma in this area.

Public transportation options in Pikeville are limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. This lack of options disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of reliable public transportation exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with asthma, potentially delaying access to critical medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the Chattanooga area, but their availability in Pikeville is sporadic. While they might be an option for occasional trips to Chattanooga, relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not a realistic solution. The unpredictable availability and potential surge pricing during emergencies further complicate their use for individuals with asthma.

Medical transport services offer a lifeline for those who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. Several companies provide ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services in the region. These services are crucial for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, particularly for those requiring specialized care in Chattanooga or other distant locations. However, the cost of these services can be a significant burden, and the availability of ambulances during peak demand may be limited.

The availability of medical transport services is a critical factor in evaluating the Asthma Score for Pikeville. The efficiency and responsiveness of these services directly impact the ability of asthma sufferers to access timely medical care. The distance to hospitals and specialist clinics, coupled with the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing, underscores the importance of readily available and affordable medical transport.

The availability of pharmacies within Pikeville is another crucial element. Access to medication is essential for managing asthma, and the proximity of pharmacies to residents significantly impacts their ability to adhere to prescribed treatment plans. Delays in obtaining medication can lead to exacerbations and hospitalizations, highlighting the importance of convenient pharmacy access.

Furthermore, the presence of urgent care facilities in or near Pikeville is essential. These facilities provide immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions, offering an alternative to the emergency room for less severe asthma flare-ups. The availability of urgent care can reduce the strain on emergency services and provide timely care for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms.

For individuals considering moving to Pikeville with asthma, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services require careful consideration. The accessibility of medical transport services and the proximity of pharmacies and urgent care facilities are also crucial factors to evaluate.

The Asthma Score for Pikeville, Tennessee (ZIP code 37367) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the natural beauty of the area is undeniable, the limitations in transportation options present significant challenges for individuals managing asthma. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the absence of robust public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles require careful planning and consideration.

The ideal scenario would involve improved public transportation, increased ride-sharing availability, and a greater presence of medical specialists within the community. Until then, residents and potential newcomers must prioritize reliable transportation, maintain strong relationships with their healthcare providers, and be prepared to navigate the challenges of healthcare access in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, region. The success of managing asthma in Pikeville hinges on proactive planning, access to reliable transportation, and a strong support network.