37659, Jonesborough, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37659, Jonesborough, Tennessee is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.70 percent of residents in 37659 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Woods Community Hospital with a distance of 5.81 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Jonesborough, TN (ZIP Code 37659)

Considering a move to Jonesborough, Tennessee, and living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This analysis provides a "COPD Score" assessing transportation options for healthcare access within ZIP code 37659, focusing on drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing, crucial factors impacting quality of life for individuals with respiratory conditions. The score considers the challenges COPD patients face, including limited mobility and the need for timely medical attention.

The foundation of healthcare access in Jonesborough rests on its location within Washington County. The town's proximity to Johnson City, a regional healthcare hub, is a significant advantage. However, transportation complexities can still arise, especially for those with COPD. Our score evaluates the practicality of reaching medical facilities, factoring in travel time, accessibility, and the overall ease of navigating the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. In Jonesborough, the most direct route to Johnson City's major hospitals, such as Johnson City Medical Center and Franklin Woods Community Hospital, involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. A journey from the heart of Jonesborough, perhaps near the historic downtown area, typically begins on **US-11E (East Main Street)**, the primary thoroughfare.

Traffic conditions on US-11E can vary, especially during peak hours. The road can become congested, particularly near intersections. From US-11E, the most direct route often involves merging onto **I-26 East**. The interstate offers a faster, more predictable commute. The drive to Johnson City Medical Center, located just off I-26, usually takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, assuming normal traffic flow.

Alternatively, depending on the specific location within Jonesborough, one might opt for a route that utilizes **State Route 81**. This road offers a more scenic, albeit potentially slower, alternative to the interstate. However, it may not be as convenient for accessing all healthcare facilities in Johnson City.

For those residing on the outskirts of Jonesborough, the drive times might be slightly longer, potentially extending to 25 minutes or more, particularly if the journey involves navigating through less-developed areas. The COPD score must consider these variations, as longer travel times can exacerbate symptoms and increase the stress associated with healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in Jonesborough and the surrounding areas is limited. The primary provider is the **ETSU Transit System**, which primarily serves the East Tennessee State University campus and surrounding areas. While this system offers some routes that extend into Johnson City, it might not be a practical solution for many COPD patients.

The routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. Furthermore, the system's accessibility features, while present, may not fully accommodate the specific needs of all individuals with COPD. The buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating for passengers with disabilities, but the lack of frequent service and the potential for long wait times can be challenging.

The COPD score must reflect the limitations of public transit, recognizing its limited utility for regular healthcare access. Those relying on public transit may face considerable difficulty in attending appointments and managing their condition effectively.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. These services are available in Jonesborough and Johnson City, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

For individuals with COPD, the convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable. The ability to schedule a ride directly to the doctor's office, without the stress of driving or navigating public transit, can be a considerable benefit. However, the reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather or peak demand, must be considered.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Ambu-Lift** and **First Call Medical Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and can be a valuable resource for COPD patients.

The COPD score must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of ride-sharing and medical transportation, considering factors such as cost, availability, and the specific needs of the individual.

**ADA Compliance: A Critical Consideration**

Accessibility is paramount for individuals with COPD. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and healthcare facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. In Jonesborough and Johnson City, compliance with ADA standards is essential.

Healthcare facilities must provide accessible entrances, waiting areas, and examination rooms. Public transportation vehicles must be equipped with ramps or lifts, and the routes must be designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The COPD score must assess the level of ADA compliance within the transportation and healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that individuals with COPD can access the services they need without facing undue barriers.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The COPD score for transportation and healthcare access in Jonesborough (ZIP code 37659) should integrate these factors. It is a nuanced assessment, not a single number. It acknowledges the advantages of a relatively short drive to Johnson City's healthcare facilities. However, it also highlights the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation.

The score considers the importance of ADA compliance and the need for accessible transportation options. It recognizes the challenges that COPD patients face, including limited mobility, breathing difficulties, and the need for timely medical attention.

**Moving to Jonesborough: A Considered Decision**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Jonesborough, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. While the town offers a charming atmosphere and proximity to healthcare resources, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of alternative transportation must be carefully evaluated.

The decision to move to Jonesborough should be informed by a comprehensive assessment of individual needs and preferences. Factors such as the frequency of medical appointments, the availability of support networks, and the ability to afford transportation costs should all be considered.

By carefully evaluating the transportation options and healthcare access within ZIP code 37659, individuals with COPD can make an informed decision about whether Jonesborough is the right place to call home. The COPD score is a tool to guide this process, ensuring that the decision is made with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with living with COPD in this community.