37348, Kelso, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37348, Kelso, Tennessee is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.67 percent of residents in 37348 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincoln Medical Center with a distance of 6.80 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kelso, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37348)

The tranquility of Kelso, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37348), offers a serene backdrop for life. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This 'COPD Score' write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, impacting their quality of life. The analysis specifically focuses on transportation options from the center of Kelso, using the intersection of Kelso Road and Old Orchard Road as a reference point.

The ability to reach healthcare appointments is paramount for COPD patients. Regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency care are vital components of disease management. This analysis examines the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, to understand the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in Kelso. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Kelso, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and effective medical care.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For many Kelso residents, a personal vehicle is the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic conditions and the availability of well-maintained roadways. The nearest major hospital, Southern Tennessee Regional Health System – Winchester, is approximately 25 miles away, a drive primarily utilizing **Highway 64** and **Highway 50**. Under normal traffic conditions, this journey takes approximately 35-45 minutes.

Accessing specialized pulmonary care may require travel to Nashville or Chattanooga. These trips are considerably longer, demanding careful planning. A trip to Nashville, utilizing **Interstate 24**, is roughly 80 miles and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Chattanooga, also accessible via **Interstate 24**, is about 70 miles and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. These longer drive times necessitate careful consideration of fuel costs, vehicle reliability, and the physical demands of extended travel for individuals with COPD.

For shorter trips, accessing local clinics and pharmacies is often reliant on navigating the less-traveled, but still essential, roads of Kelso. **Kelso Road**, **Old Orchard Road**, and **Duff Road** are the primary arteries within the immediate vicinity. While these roads are generally well-maintained, they can be subject to weather-related delays, particularly during inclement conditions.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Kelso are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their condition. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical transport.

Currently, there is no established public transit system that directly serves Kelso. The nearest public transit options are located in the larger cities of Winchester, Tullahoma, or Fayetteville. These options may require significant travel time and transfers, rendering them impractical for many COPD patients, especially those with limited mobility or respiratory distress. The absence of a robust public transit network highlights the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for healthcare transportation. However, the availability of these services in Kelso is variable. Demand and driver availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies such as AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services offer a valuable resource, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

**ADA Considerations**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and ride-sharing services provide accessible options for individuals with disabilities. However, the practical implementation of these requirements can vary. The absence of public transit in Kelso eliminates the need for ADA compliance in that area.

Ride-sharing services are required to provide accessible vehicles upon request, although availability may be limited. Medical transport services typically offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can safely access healthcare facilities.

**Healthcare Access and COPD Management**

The transportation challenges in Kelso directly impact healthcare access for COPD patients. The distance to specialized care, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing services can create barriers to timely and effective medical care. Regular access to pulmonary rehabilitation, medication refills, and emergency services is essential for managing COPD and maintaining a good quality of life.

The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for attending pulmonary rehabilitation sessions, which are vital for improving lung function and managing symptoms. Medication adherence is also critical, and easy access to pharmacies is essential for obtaining necessary prescriptions. Furthermore, prompt access to emergency care is paramount in the event of a COPD exacerbation.

**Conclusion: A COPD Score for Kelso**

The 'COPD Score' for Kelso, Tennessee, reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to timely and effective medical care. While medical transport services offer a valuable solution, they can be costly.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Kelso, careful planning and consideration of transportation needs are essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential cost of transportation services should be carefully evaluated. The 'COPD Score' for Kelso highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need for innovative solutions to ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.