37872, Sunbright, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37872, Sunbright, Tennessee is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.55 percent of residents in 37872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Big South Fork Medical Center with a distance of 18.55 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sunbright, TN (ZIP Code 37872)

Relocating to the serene landscapes of Sunbright, Tennessee, in ZIP code 37872, promises a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the practicalities of healthcare access become paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of transportation options, evaluating their suitability for residents requiring regular medical attention. We'll explore drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive understanding of navigating healthcare in this rural setting.

The primary healthcare hub for Sunbright residents is likely to be the medical facilities in nearby towns like Wartburg, Jamestown, or even Knoxville, Tennessee, necessitating transportation. The most direct route for many involves driving. From Sunbright, a journey to Wartburg, home to medical clinics and a hospital, typically entails a drive along **Highway 62**. The drive is generally around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. **Highway 62** is a relatively well-maintained two-lane road, but sections can be winding, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms in some individuals due to motion sickness or exposure to vehicle exhaust.

Traveling to Jamestown, approximately 30-40 minutes away, necessitates a drive along **Highway 127**. This route offers scenic views, but the longer duration could be a factor for those with severe asthma, increasing the risk of symptom flare-ups. Furthermore, **Highway 127** can experience higher traffic volumes, particularly during peak hours, increasing exposure to pollutants.

For specialized care, Knoxville, a larger city with a wider range of medical specialists and hospitals, is a common destination. The drive to Knoxville from Sunbright involves navigating **Highway 62** east and then merging onto **Interstate 75 (I-75)** south. This journey can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. **I-75** is a major interstate, often congested, and the extended travel time presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma. The potential for traffic delays and exposure to exhaust fumes during the longer commute needs careful consideration.

Public transportation options in Sunbright are extremely limited. The rural nature of the area means that traditional bus routes are virtually nonexistent. There are no public bus services, and the infrastructure for such services is not in place. This lack of public transit severely restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. The absence of accessible public transit is a major obstacle for those with asthma, especially during exacerbations. There is no information on ADA features because there are no public transit routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Knoxville area but their presence in Sunbright is sporadic. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be considerable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access in Sunbright is unreliable and potentially expensive, making it a less than ideal solution for managing asthma.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and Priority Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transport to and from medical appointments. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior arrangements are typically required. While a viable option, medical transport is not a readily available or affordable solution for routine healthcare needs.

For individuals considering moving to Sunbright with asthma, the transportation landscape presents significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the unreliable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The extended drive times to specialized medical facilities, especially in Knoxville, pose a risk of symptom exacerbation.

The "Asthma Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Sunbright, TN (37872) is relatively low. The lack of public transit and the dependence on personal vehicles or costly medical transport services create a difficult situation for those with asthma. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone contemplating a move to this area. Individuals with asthma should assess their ability to drive, the availability of reliable transportation assistance, and the potential financial burden of medical transport before making a decision. Planning for healthcare access is crucial to ensure the best possible quality of life in this beautiful, but geographically isolated, region.