37016, Auburntown, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37016, Auburntown, Tennessee is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.65 percent of residents in 37016 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stones River Hospital with a distance of 8.06 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Auburntown (ZIP Code 37016)

The air hangs heavy in Auburntown, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37016), a rural community nestled in the heart of Rutherford County. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the journey to healthcare is a critical aspect of their well-being. This analysis, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of transportation options, healthcare access, and the challenges faced by individuals with limited mobility and respiratory difficulties, specifically considering the needs of someone considering moving to Auburntown.

The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and respiratory therapy is paramount for those battling COPD. Transportation limitations can significantly impact adherence to treatment plans, leading to exacerbations and hospitalizations. The following evaluation considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options, providing a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape for healthcare access within and around Auburntown.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Auburntown and its surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the availability of paved roads. Residents primarily rely on roadways like Auburntown Road, a local thoroughfare that connects the community to nearby towns. Access to the major highway, Interstate 840, is a crucial factor.

Traveling east on I-840 offers the quickest route to Murfreesboro, the county seat, where a significant concentration of healthcare providers, including hospitals and specialist clinics, are located. The drive from Auburntown to Murfreesboro, via I-840, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic flow. However, traffic congestion during peak hours can significantly extend this time, potentially impacting the ability of a COPD patient to reach an appointment on time.

Heading west on I-840 leads to the Nashville area, offering a wider array of specialized healthcare options. The drive to Nashville, while providing greater healthcare access, is considerably longer, typically taking 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination within the city and traffic conditions. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays, especially for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Local roads like US-231, also known as Manchester Pike, provide alternative routes, though they often involve slower speeds and more stop-and-go traffic. These roads can be useful for accessing local pharmacies and smaller clinics within the immediate vicinity of Auburntown, offering a slightly quicker route to essential services.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Rutherford County are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals with COPD who may not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to their condition. The Rutherford County Area Transit (RCAT) provides some public transportation services, but its routes and frequency are limited, particularly in rural areas like Auburntown.

RCAT operates primarily within Murfreesboro, with limited service extending to surrounding communities. The availability of routes serving Auburntown is minimal, and the frequency of service is often insufficient to meet the needs of individuals requiring regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the routes may not directly connect to healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers and potentially increasing travel time and physical exertion.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for public transit. RCAT is required to provide accessible vehicles and services for individuals with disabilities, including those with COPD. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations. Waiting at bus stops, navigating transfers, and the overall duration of travel can be particularly taxing for individuals with breathing difficulties.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Auburntown may be limited compared to larger urban areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make ride-sharing a costly option, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with health conditions, provide a more specialized approach. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and vehicles equipped to accommodate medical equipment. Several medical transport brands operate in the broader Nashville area, including specialized ambulances and non-emergency medical transport services.

The availability of medical transportation services in Auburntown is crucial for individuals with COPD who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. These services can provide a reliable and safe way to access healthcare facilities, ensuring that patients can attend appointments and receive necessary treatment. However, the cost of medical transportation services can be significant, and insurance coverage may vary.

**Healthcare Access: Navigating the Landscape**

The availability of healthcare providers within Auburntown itself is limited. Residents typically rely on healthcare facilities in nearby towns, such as Murfreesboro and Smyrna, or in the Nashville metropolitan area. This necessitates travel, placing a greater emphasis on reliable transportation options.

The location of pharmacies is another crucial factor. Access to medications is essential for managing COPD, and the proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare facilities is a key consideration. The availability of pharmacies within Auburntown and the ease of access to pharmacies in nearby towns are vital for ensuring timely medication refills.

**COPD Score: Considerations for Moving to Auburntown**

For someone considering moving to Auburntown with COPD, a thorough evaluation of the transportation landscape is essential. The COPD Score, in this context, highlights the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services must be carefully considered.

The availability of medical transportation services and the proximity of healthcare facilities in nearby towns are crucial factors. Individuals should research the specific routes and services available, assess the costs involved, and ensure that they have a reliable transportation plan in place to meet their healthcare needs.

The decision to move to Auburntown should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and the potential impact on healthcare access. Careful planning, including securing reliable transportation options and establishing relationships with healthcare providers, is essential for ensuring that individuals with COPD can maintain their health and well-being in this rural community. The move to Auburntown necessitates a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access, allowing individuals to thrive while managing their COPD.