37035, Chapmansboro, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37035, Chapmansboro, Tennessee is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.08 percent of residents in 37035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tristar Ashland City Medical Center with a distance of 7.69 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chapmansboro (ZIP Code 37035)

The crisp air of Chapmansboro, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37035), beckons with its small-town charm and proximity to the Cumberland River. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the allure of this community must be tempered with a practical assessment of healthcare access. This COPD Score write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, crucial for those needing regular medical attention, providing a detailed view of the challenges and opportunities that await. Understanding these dynamics is critical for making informed decisions, especially for those considering a move to Chapmansboro.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to reach medical facilities. In Chapmansboro, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Driving times to essential healthcare providers become paramount. For residents, the closest major hospital is TriStar Ashland City Hospital, located approximately 10 miles east. The journey typically involves navigating **Highway 12** east, a well-maintained road that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. Drive times range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

Specialists, such as pulmonologists, may require travel further afield. Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville is a renowned institution, but it’s a significantly longer commute. The most direct route involves taking **Highway 12** east to **Interstate 24** south. The total distance is approximately 30 miles, with a drive time that can fluctuate between 45 minutes and an hour and fifteen minutes, contingent on traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour. This longer travel time demands careful planning and consideration, especially for individuals with COPD who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue.

Public transportation options in this area are limited. The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) does not directly serve Chapmansboro. The nearest bus routes are in Ashland City, approximately 10 miles away. Even if a resident were to utilize the Ashland City bus system, the routes are infrequent and would involve multiple transfers to reach the Nashville area. ADA accessibility features on the buses are available, but the overall system is not conducive to frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Chapmansboro, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, ride availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides can also become a significant financial burden, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access. For individuals with COPD, the unpredictability of ride-sharing and the potential for extended wait times could exacerbate their condition.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, provide an alternative. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and First Response Medical Transport offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for frequent appointments. The cost, coupled with potential delays, must be weighed against the benefits of specialized care.

The location of pharmacies is another crucial factor in healthcare access. Chapmansboro has a few local pharmacies. However, for a wider selection of medications or specialized services, residents may need to travel to Ashland City or even Nashville. This necessitates additional transportation considerations, adding to the overall burden of managing COPD.

The availability of home healthcare services is also an important consideration. Agencies like Amedisys and Encompass Health provide in-home nursing and respiratory therapy. These services can significantly reduce the need for frequent travel, improving the quality of life for individuals with COPD. However, the availability of these services can vary, and access depends on insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient.

For those considering a move to Chapmansboro, the transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. The longer drive times to specialized medical facilities, such as Vanderbilt, must be factored into the decision-making process.

Conversely, the presence of medical transportation services and the potential for home healthcare offer valuable support. The proximity to Ashland City, with its local pharmacies and medical facilities, provides a degree of convenience. The community's small-town atmosphere, with its potential for a slower pace of life, may also be appealing to those seeking a less stressful environment.

Ultimately, the COPD Score for Chapmansboro (ZIP Code 37035) highlights the need for a comprehensive assessment of individual needs and resources. Those with COPD should thoroughly evaluate their ability to navigate the transportation options, the availability of support services, and the potential financial implications of healthcare access. Careful consideration of these factors is essential to ensure a successful transition and maintain a high quality of life in this charming community. The decision to move to Chapmansboro requires thoughtful planning, prioritizing healthcare access, and understanding the nuances of the local transportation infrastructure.