37843, Parrottsville, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37843, Parrottsville, Tennessee is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.81 percent of residents in 37843 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Healthcare - Newport Medical Center with a distance of 6.94 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Parrottsville (ZIP Code 37843)

The crisp air of Parrottsville, Tennessee, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Cocke County, offers a seemingly idyllic setting. However, for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare is a critical factor impacting their quality of life. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 37843, evaluating the ease of commute to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for prospective residents, particularly those with asthma, weighing the pros and cons of moving to this charming, yet geographically constrained, community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Parrottsville revolves around vehicular transportation. Driving is undoubtedly the primary mode of transport, with personal vehicles offering the most direct routes to medical appointments and emergency care. The nearest major healthcare hubs, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in nearby towns like Newport and Greeneville.

The primary artery connecting Parrottsville to these crucial resources is **Highway 25/70**, a vital thoroughfare that snakes its way through the region. Heading east on 25/70, a drive to Newport, home to the Newport Medical Center, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, offering a relatively smooth journey. However, during peak hours, particularly weekdays, traffic congestion can slightly extend travel times.

Alternatively, traveling west on 25/70 towards Greeneville, where you'll find the Greeneville Community Hospital, requires a drive of roughly 30-45 minutes. This route traverses a more rural landscape, offering scenic views but also potentially encountering slower speeds due to winding roads. The journey to Greeneville might be slightly longer, but the availability of more extensive medical services could be a significant advantage.

Venturing further afield, the city of Knoxville, approximately an hour and a half away via **Interstate 40**, presents a broader array of specialized medical facilities. While this route offers the fastest access to advanced care, the extended travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals experiencing acute asthma symptoms. The I-40 corridor, however, can experience heavy traffic during rush hour, potentially adding to the commute time.

Public transportation options within and around Parrottsville are unfortunately limited. Cocke County does not have a formal public transit system, which significantly restricts transportation options for those without personal vehicles. This lack of public transit presents a major challenge for individuals with asthma who may not be able to drive, or who may require frequent medical appointments.

However, there is some degree of support for those with mobility issues. The Cocke County Council on Aging offers a demand-response service for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service provides transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations within the county. However, availability and scheduling may be limited, and advance booking is typically required. It's essential to contact the Council on Aging directly to inquire about eligibility and service specifics.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Parrottsville and the surrounding areas. While these services may be available, their frequency and reliability are not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The availability of ride-sharing should not be considered a reliable alternative to personal transportation or pre-arranged medical transport.

Medical transportation services are available in the area, catering to individuals with specific medical needs. These services typically involve specialized vehicles equipped to transport patients safely and comfortably to and from medical appointments. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. These services require advance booking and may have associated costs.

For individuals with asthma, the availability of medical transport is crucial, especially during exacerbations. The ability to quickly and safely access emergency care is paramount. However, it is crucial to inquire about insurance coverage and service availability before relying on medical transport.

When considering moving to Parrottsville, the transportation landscape is a critical factor for individuals with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit and ride-sharing options, necessitates careful consideration. The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly in emergencies, should be assessed realistically.

The Asthma Score for Parrottsville reflects the accessibility of healthcare services. The score is influenced by factors such as drive times, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The score is not a definitive measure, but rather a tool for assessing the ease of access to healthcare, specifically for individuals with asthma.

The proximity to Newport and Greeneville, while requiring travel, offers access to essential medical care. The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net for emergencies. However, the absence of a robust public transit system and the limited presence of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

For individuals with asthma, the decision to move to Parrottsville should be made with careful consideration of the transportation challenges. It is crucial to assess personal transportation capabilities, explore the availability of medical transport, and understand the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Parrottsville highlights the need for careful planning and preparedness for individuals with asthma. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the accessibility of healthcare services relies heavily on individual transportation and pre-arranged medical support. Thorough research and proactive planning are essential for ensuring adequate healthcare access and maintaining a good quality of life in this charming, yet geographically constrained, community.