The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37310, Charleston, Tennessee is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
64.88 percent of residents in 37310 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 10.41 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37310, Charleston, Tennessee
COPD Score | 41 |
---|---|
People Score | 73 |
Provider Score | 41 |
Hospital Score | 24 |
Travel Score | 42 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37310 | Charleston | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.23 | 0.23 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 19.64 | 19.64 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 29.65 | 29.65 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 50.49 | 50.49 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37310, Charleston, Tennessee
## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Charleston, TN (ZIP Code 37310)
Considering a move to the charming town of Charleston, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37310), and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This write-up provides a "COPD Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and healthcare access, crucial for individuals with respiratory conditions. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of navigating healthcare in this locale. This information will aid in your decision-making process, ensuring a smooth transition and continued access to essential medical care.
The COPD Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency with which a person with COPD can access healthcare from their home in 37310. Factors like distance, transportation availability, and accessibility features are paramount. We will examine these elements, painting a clear picture of the realities of healthcare access. This is especially important if you are moving to Charleston.
**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure**
Charleston, nestled in Bradley County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary artery connecting Charleston to larger healthcare facilities is **Highway 11**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving to the nearest major hospital, CHI Memorial Hospital in Cleveland, TN, via Highway 11 typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive is generally manageable, offering a relatively quick route to emergency care.
However, consider the potential impact of traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Road construction, while infrequent, can also add to travel times. Regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and other appointments require consistent and reliable transportation. This necessitates careful planning and awareness of potential delays.
Another important route is **Highway 60**, which connects Charleston to the east. While less direct to major hospitals, it provides access to smaller clinics and specialized medical offices. **County Road 101** offers a more local route, connecting various parts of Charleston and providing access to local pharmacies and primary care physicians.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Unfortunately, public transportation options in Charleston are limited. The primary provider is the Bradley County Public Transit, which operates a demand-response system. This means you must schedule rides in advance. While this service is available, it may not be ideal for individuals with COPD who might require frequent or urgent medical attention.
The Bradley County Public Transit offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited routes and scheduling requirements can pose challenges. The lack of fixed routes and frequent service makes it difficult to rely on public transit for routine medical appointments.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Charleston, though their availability might be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Ride-sharing can provide a convenient option for accessing healthcare, particularly for those who cannot drive. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could impact affordability.
Medical transportation services are another option. These services specialize in transporting individuals with medical needs. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers may offer this service. The cost of medical transport can be higher than ride-sharing or personal transportation, but it offers a reliable and often necessary solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit.
**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility**
The availability of healthcare facilities within and near Charleston is a critical factor. CHI Memorial Hospital in Cleveland is the primary regional hospital, offering a wide range of medical services, including pulmonology. Several smaller clinics and physician offices are also located in Charleston and the surrounding areas.
Accessibility features within these facilities are crucial. Look for designated parking spaces, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Confirm that the facilities have experience in treating patients with COPD and offer specialized services such as pulmonary rehabilitation.
**The COPD Score Assessment: A Summary**
The COPD Score for Charleston, TN (37310) is moderate. While the proximity to CHI Memorial Hospital in Cleveland offers relatively quick access to comprehensive care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. Ride-sharing services provide an alternative, but availability and cost can be variable. Medical transport services offer a reliable solution but can be more expensive.
**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD**
For individuals with COPD considering a move to Charleston, careful planning is essential.
* **Prioritize proximity to healthcare:** Choose a residence that is easily accessible to medical facilities, ideally within a reasonable driving distance of CHI Memorial Hospital or other specialized clinics.
* **Assess transportation needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or rely on family/friends for transportation. If driving is not feasible, explore ride-sharing services and medical transport options.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify pulmonologists, primary care physicians, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs in the area. Inquire about their accessibility features and experience with COPD patients.
* **Plan for emergencies:** Familiarize yourself with emergency routes and transportation options. Ensure you have a plan in place for unexpected medical needs.
* **Consider mobility:** If mobility is a concern, ensure your chosen residence is accessible and consider the availability of assistive devices and support services.
**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**
Moving to a new location, especially with a chronic condition like COPD, requires careful consideration. By evaluating the transportation options, healthcare access, and accessibility features in Charleston, TN (37310), you can make an informed decision that supports your health and well-being. While the area offers a welcoming community and a slower pace of life, a thorough assessment of your healthcare needs is paramount. This "COPD Score" write-up provides a starting point for your research, empowering you to navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure a successful transition to your new home. Remember to prioritize your health and well-being throughout the moving process.
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