38554, Crawford, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 38554, Crawford, Tennessee is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.26 percent of residents in 38554 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Livingston Regional Hospital with a distance of 13.35 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crawford, TN (ZIP Code 38554)

The crisp air of the Cumberland Plateau, where Crawford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38554) nestles, can be a double-edged sword for residents. While the natural beauty is undeniable, those living with asthma face the potential for triggers in this environment. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, specifically for respiratory care, is paramount. This "Asthma Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview of transportation options to healthcare facilities, helping prospective residents and current Crawford inhabitants assess their healthcare access.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in 38554 lies in its rural setting. Crawford, a small community, lacks a hospital within its immediate boundaries. Residents, therefore, rely on transportation to reach healthcare providers. This means the "Asthma Score" must heavily consider the efficiency and availability of transportation options, especially for individuals experiencing asthma exacerbations. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical assistance is critical.

**Driving Directions: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many, the car is the most direct route to healthcare. The major arteries connecting Crawford to healthcare facilities are crucial. Accessing the nearest hospitals and specialized clinics necessitates navigating a network of roads.

Driving south on **Highway 111**, the primary thoroughfare, provides access to Cookeville, approximately 20 miles away. This drive, typically taking around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic, leads to Cookeville Regional Medical Center, a vital healthcare hub. This hospital offers comprehensive services, including pulmonary care, essential for asthma management. The route on Highway 111 is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise from traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Alternatively, traveling east on **Highway 70** offers another route to Cookeville, although it may be slightly longer, taking approximately 45 minutes. This route, while scenic, might encounter more winding roads, potentially impacting travel time and comfort for individuals experiencing breathing difficulties. Careful consideration of road conditions, especially during inclement weather, is essential.

**Secondary Roads and Considerations**

Smaller roads, such as **Beech Grove Road** and **Monterey Highway**, provide alternative routes, but these tend to be slower and less direct. These secondary roads may be useful for accessing local clinics or urgent care facilities but are generally not the primary routes for reaching hospitals. These are essential to have in mind when considering healthcare access.

The driving experience itself can be a factor. Individuals with asthma might find the stress of driving, especially in heavy traffic, exacerbating their symptoms. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities and the ease of navigating those facilities are also important considerations.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options, Real Challenges**

Public transportation options in 38554 are severely limited. This is a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car or cannot drive.

The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) offers a demand-response public transportation service, but this service is limited in scope and availability. While UCHRA may provide transportation to medical appointments, it requires advance booking and may not be readily available in emergency situations. The service's operating hours and coverage area should be carefully investigated.

The lack of a robust public transportation system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those with asthma, especially during flare-ups when immediate medical attention is crucial. The absence of readily available public transit emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. ADA features are available, but the service is not ideal for emergencies.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cookeville area. However, their availability in Crawford itself may be more limited, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The reliability of ride-sharing services in emergencies is a crucial consideration.

Medical transportation services, like ambulance services, are available. These services are essential for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, the cost of ambulance services can be substantial, and the response time may vary depending on the location and the availability of emergency personnel.

**Medical Transport Brands and Considerations**

Several medical transport brands may serve the Crawford area. These brands include ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. Investigating the specific providers operating in the area, their service areas, and their response times is crucial.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized medical transport, such as transport with oxygen or other respiratory support, is an important consideration for individuals with asthma. The ability to arrange for this specialized transport in advance, if needed, is critical for managing asthma symptoms.

**Moving to Crawford: Healthcare Access as a Priority**

For individuals considering moving to Crawford, TN (38554), healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate a careful assessment of one's ability to drive or access alternative transportation.

Prospective residents should research the availability of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and pulmonologists. They should also investigate the availability of pharmacies and other medical services in the area.

The "Asthma Score" for Crawford, TN, is not a simple numerical value. It is a holistic assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The score considers the availability of driving routes, the limitations of public transportation, the potential of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall implications for individuals managing asthma.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Crawford, TN, requires careful consideration of these factors. The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare, especially during an asthma exacerbation, is paramount for maintaining health and well-being. The "Asthma Score" write-up aims to provide the information necessary to make an informed decision.