38460, Goodspring, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 38460, Goodspring, Tennessee is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.92 percent of residents in 38460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southern Tennessee Regional Health System Pulaski with a distance of 10.58 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Goodspring, TN (ZIP Code 38460)

The crisp air of Goodspring, Tennessee, a small community nestled in Giles County, offers a bucolic charm that beckons many seeking a slower pace of life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of **healthcare access** takes on a heightened significance. This assessment, an "Asthma Score" analysis, explores the **transportation** landscape within and around ZIP Code 38460, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents requiring regular medical care. This information is particularly relevant for those **moving to Goodspring**, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being.

The primary consideration for an asthma patient is the ease of reaching medical facilities. In Goodspring, this translates to understanding the drive times to specialists, emergency rooms, and pharmacies. While the town itself is relatively compact, the nearest comprehensive medical resources are located in Pulaski, the county seat, approximately 15 miles away. This distance, while seemingly manageable, becomes a critical factor when considering the potential for sudden asthma exacerbations.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** in this rural area. The primary route to Pulaski from Goodspring is via US-31, a well-maintained highway that offers a relatively direct route. The drive typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Pulaski. Another option is to utilize TN-15, which intersects with US-31, offering an alternative, albeit slightly less direct, route. These highways are generally in good condition, but seasonal weather events, such as heavy rain or occasional snowfall, can impact travel times and necessitate extra caution.

For those without personal vehicles, the availability of public **transportation** presents a significant challenge. Giles County, like many rural areas, has limited public transit options. There is no established public bus system directly serving Goodspring or connecting it to Pulaski. This lack of public **transportation** presents a considerable barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This situation underscores the importance of exploring alternative options, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, though their availability and response times can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services in a rural area, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather, may be uncertain. Patients should factor in potential wait times and the availability of drivers when relying on ride-sharing for **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services offer a specialized option for patients requiring assistance with their **transportation** needs. These services, often provided by private companies, are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. They typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient care during transit. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and it is essential to investigate insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses. The availability of these services in the Goodspring area needs to be verified, as it may be limited compared to urban centers.

The nearest hospitals and clinics are located in Pulaski, including Maury Regional Medical Group – Pulaski, and Southern Tennessee Regional Health System – Pulaski. These facilities offer a range of medical services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized asthma treatment. However, the distance and the limitations of public **transportation** necessitate careful planning for appointments and potential emergencies. The ability to quickly access emergency care is paramount for asthma patients, making the drive time to the nearest emergency room a critical consideration.

Pharmacies are another essential component of **healthcare access** for asthma patients. Several pharmacies are located in Pulaski, offering a range of medications and respiratory supplies. The drive time to these pharmacies, similar to the time to medical facilities, must be factored into the overall assessment. It is also crucial to consider the availability of prescription refills and the potential for delivery services, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ADA-compliant **transportation** is a crucial aspect of **healthcare access** for individuals with disabilities. The lack of a public bus system in Goodspring presents a significant challenge for individuals with mobility impairments. Ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, but their availability cannot be guaranteed. Medical transport services are more likely to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

The "Asthma Score" for Goodspring, TN (ZIP Code 38460) reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural environment. While the community offers a tranquil setting, the limited public **transportation** options and the distance to medical facilities pose significant hurdles for asthma patients. Individuals **moving to Goodspring** with asthma must carefully consider these factors and develop a comprehensive **transportation** plan to ensure they can receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The assessment of this "Asthma Score" highlights the need for proactive planning. This includes identifying reliable **transportation** options, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and ensuring access to necessary medications and supplies. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport underscores the importance of financial planning and the potential for unexpected expenses.

Furthermore, it is essential to consider the potential for emergency situations. Asthma patients should have a clear plan for accessing emergency care, including knowing the quickest route to the nearest emergency room and having a backup plan in case of a **transportation** disruption. This plan should include the contact information for emergency services, family members, and healthcare providers.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Goodspring, TN (ZIP Code 38460) is moderately challenging. While the drive times to medical facilities are not excessively long, the lack of public **transportation** and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. Individuals with asthma **moving to Goodspring** should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure they can maintain their health and well-being in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is crucial for successful asthma management and a fulfilling life in Goodspring.