38016, Cordova, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 38016, Cordova, Tennessee is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.65 percent of residents in 38016 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Francis Bartlett Medical Center with a distance of 2.63 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cordova, TN (ZIP Code 38016)

Considering a move to Cordova, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38016), and concerned about asthma management? This write-up provides a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport to help you understand the practicalities of managing asthma within this community.

The Asthma Score isn't a numerical grade; it's an evaluation of the ease with which residents can reach healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other essential services. This is particularly crucial for individuals with asthma, where timely access to medication and medical attention can be life-saving. The score reflects the efficiency and accessibility of transportation options, considering factors like distance, traffic, and availability of services.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Asphalt Arteries**

Cordova's transportation landscape is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The primary artery is **Interstate 40 (I-40)**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Accessing healthcare facilities from Cordova often involves navigating I-40, which can be a double-edged sword. While it offers relatively fast travel times, rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel duration, especially during peak commuting hours.

**Germantown Parkway** acts as a crucial north-south connector, intersecting with I-40. This road provides access to various medical offices and facilities. **Houston Levee Road** and **N. Germantown Parkway** are other key routes. These roads provide access to clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals, but they are also subject to traffic delays.

Drive times vary significantly based on the destination and time of day. A typical drive to a primary care physician in Cordova might take 10-15 minutes, while a trip to a specialist in East Memphis could extend to 20-30 minutes or longer during peak traffic. For emergency situations, every minute counts, making traffic conditions a critical consideration.

**Public Transit: The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA)**

Public transit in Cordova is available through the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA). Several bus routes serve the area, offering a potentially cost-effective transportation alternative. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be a limiting factor.

MATA Route **42** and **50** are two of the most relevant routes for Cordova residents. Route 42 provides service along Germantown Parkway, connecting to major shopping centers and healthcare facilities. Route 50 offers service along Macon Road, connecting to other parts of the city.

MATA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, making them accessible for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the relatively infrequent service, especially on weekends and evenings, can pose challenges for those with urgent healthcare needs. Furthermore, the potential for exposure to allergens within the bus environment, such as dust or other passengers' perfumes, is a consideration for asthma sufferers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services are readily available in Cordova and provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, pharmacies, and other destinations. The cost can vary depending on demand and distance, but they offer a reliable option, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies operate in the Memphis area, including **Medicaid Transportation Services** and **First Transit**. These services are typically covered by insurance or Medicaid for eligible individuals.

**Pharmacy Access: Medication at Your Fingertips**

Access to pharmacies is a critical component of asthma management. Cordova boasts a variety of pharmacies, including national chains like **CVS** and **Walgreens**, as well as independent pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription filling services, over-the-counter medications, and asthma-related supplies. The proximity of these pharmacies to residential areas and medical offices enhances the Asthma Score, ensuring easy access to essential medications.

**Healthcare Providers: Specialists and Facilities**

Cordova is home to a selection of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics. **Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital** is a nearby hospital, offering comprehensive medical services, including emergency care. Several specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, also have offices in the area.

The availability of specialized care is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. The proximity of these providers to residents and the ease of access through various transportation options contribute to a higher score. However, the availability of appointments and wait times can impact the overall healthcare experience.

**Moving to Cordova: Asthma-Friendly Considerations**

For individuals with asthma, moving to a new area requires careful consideration of environmental factors. Cordova's location in the Mid-South region means high humidity levels, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Furthermore, pollen counts and air quality can vary depending on the season.

When choosing a home in Cordova, consider the proximity to major roadways, as vehicle emissions can trigger asthma symptoms. Also, assess the presence of potential allergens in the surrounding environment, such as mold, pollen-producing trees, and grass.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for Cordova, TN (ZIP Code 38016) is a nuanced evaluation. While the reliance on personal vehicles and potential traffic congestion on I-40 and other major roads can present challenges, the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport, and accessible public transit options mitigates some of these concerns.

The presence of a variety of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and the nearby hospital enhances the overall healthcare access. The score is further improved by the ADA features on MATA buses. However, the limited frequency of public transit routes and the potential for allergen exposure on buses are areas for improvement.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for Cordova reflects a community with a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration, particularly during peak traffic hours, the availability of multiple transportation options, healthcare providers, and pharmacies makes Cordova a viable option for individuals managing asthma. Prospective residents should weigh these factors against their individual needs and preferences when making a decision about moving to the area.