37329, Englewood, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37329, Englewood, Tennessee is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.29 percent of residents in 37329 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 7.15 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Englewood, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37329)

Relocating to a new community, especially when managing a chronic respiratory condition like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), demands careful consideration of healthcare access. This write-up provides a "COPD Score" assessment for transportation options within and to Englewood, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37329), factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and other relevant factors. This information is crucial for individuals considering moving to Englewood and seeking efficient healthcare access.

Englewood, a small town nestled in McMinn County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its rural setting presents unique challenges for healthcare access. Transportation infrastructure is a critical element in determining the feasibility of receiving timely and consistent medical care for COPD patients. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and respiratory therapy sessions directly impacts the quality of life and disease management.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in and around Englewood is the personal vehicle. The town is readily accessible via **US-411**, the main thoroughfare running north-south, and **TN-30**, which traverses east-west. Drive times to essential healthcare facilities become a critical factor in the COPD Score assessment.

For residents of Englewood, the nearest hospital, **Sweetwater Hospital Association**, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US-411 North. This relatively short distance is a significant advantage. However, in the event of a respiratory emergency, even a short drive can feel prolonged. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather, can further extend these times.

Specialty care and pulmonology services may necessitate travel to larger cities like Athens, approximately a 25-30 minute drive via US-411 South, or Knoxville, roughly a 1.5-hour drive via US-411 South and I-75 North. These longer distances introduce potential challenges for COPD patients, including increased fatigue, potential oxygen requirements, and the need for careful pre-planning. The condition of roadways also plays a role; well-maintained roads contribute to a smoother, less stressful journey.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Englewood are extremely limited. McMinn County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of readily available public transit poses a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive, including those with mobility limitations or those who may have had their driving privileges revoked.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, which can be less reliable and potentially more expensive. This deficiency significantly impacts the COPD Score, highlighting a major challenge for healthcare access within the community.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Englewood area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger urban centers. The reliability of these services is crucial for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient needs. Several medical transport companies, such as **CareRide** and **FirstMed Transportation**, operate in the region. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

For individuals with COPD who may also have mobility limitations, the availability of accessible transportation is critical. Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers should be able to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Ensuring access to accessible transportation is a crucial component of the COPD Score.

**Pharmacies and Other Healthcare Services**

Beyond hospitals and specialist clinics, access to pharmacies and other healthcare services is vital. Englewood has several local pharmacies, including **Englewood Pharmacy** and **CVS Pharmacy**, offering prescription filling and other services. The proximity of these pharmacies is a positive factor in the COPD Score.

**Factors Influencing the COPD Score**

The COPD Score for Englewood, Tennessee, is influenced by several factors:

* **Proximity to hospitals and clinics:** The relatively short drive to Sweetwater Hospital is a positive factor.
* **Availability of public transit:** The lack of public transit negatively impacts the score.
* **Reliability of ride-sharing services:** The availability of ride-sharing services offers a degree of flexibility.
* **Cost of medical transportation:** The cost of medical transport services can be a barrier.
* **Accessibility of transportation:** The availability of accessible transportation options is crucial.
* **Access to pharmacies:** Proximity to local pharmacies is a positive factor.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Englewood**

The COPD Score for Englewood, Tennessee, reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a peaceful environment and close proximity to a hospital, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for healthcare access. Individuals considering moving to Englewood with COPD should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly.

Those who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will likely find healthcare access manageable. However, those who cannot drive or require assistance with transportation should investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Pre-planning, including establishing relationships with local pharmacies and healthcare providers, is essential for successful COPD management in Englewood. The availability of accessible transportation and the ability to navigate the local roadways will be critical for maintaining quality of life and effectively managing the condition.