37745, Greeneville, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37745, Greeneville, Tennessee is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.10 percent of residents in 37745 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greeneville Community Hospital with a distance of 2.18 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Greeneville, TN (ZIP Code 37745)

Considering a move to Greeneville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37745) and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This write-up assesses the ease of accessing healthcare, specifically focusing on transportation options, crucial for individuals with COPD who require regular medical appointments and may experience breathing difficulties. We'll explore the practicalities of getting to and from your healthcare providers, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport. This analysis aims to provide a "COPD Score" – a subjective assessment of the accessibility of healthcare within this specific geographical area, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Greeneville, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The town's layout and infrastructure directly impact healthcare access. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are US-11E (Andrew Johnson Highway), US-321 (East Andrew Johnson Highway), and State Route 107 (Asheville Highway). These roads connect Greeneville to surrounding towns and cities, but traffic flow and road conditions can significantly affect travel times, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The primary healthcare provider in Greeneville is Greeneville Community Hospital East, located at 101 Hospital Drive. From various points within the 37745 ZIP code, drive times to the hospital can vary significantly. Residents living closer to the hospital, particularly those in the central areas of town, may experience drive times of less than 10 minutes. However, those residing on the outskirts, especially towards areas like Baileyton or Chuckey, could face drive times exceeding 20-30 minutes, particularly if navigating through US-11E during rush hour. The condition of the roads, including potential for potholes or construction, also plays a role in impacting these times.

Public transportation options in Greeneville are limited. Greeneville Area Transit System (GATS) operates a small bus service within the town. However, the routes and schedules are not extensive, and service frequency may be limited, especially on weekends or evenings. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and lifts, is crucial for individuals with mobility issues. While GATS aims to provide accessible transportation, it's essential to verify the availability and reliability of these features for specific routes and times, especially when considering the potential for respiratory distress during travel. The public transportation system's effectiveness in facilitating healthcare access is a notable consideration.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Greeneville, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. However, ride-sharing can be a convenient option for those unable to drive or who prefer not to drive, providing a direct route to healthcare appointments. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits. The reliability of ride-sharing services during inclement weather or at off-peak hours should also be considered.

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or other health concerns. Several medical transport companies operate in the Greeneville area, including but not limited to, First Call Ambulance Service and Med-Trans Corporation. These services provide a valuable option for those with COPD, ensuring safe and comfortable transportation. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "COPD Score" for accessing healthcare in Greeneville, TN (37745) is moderate. While the town offers some healthcare facilities, the transportation options present limitations. Drive times can be manageable for those living near the hospital, but longer commutes are possible for those residing further away. The limited public transit system and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services pose challenges for individuals with COPD. While ride-sharing and medical transport services provide alternative solutions, their availability, cost, and reliability should be carefully considered.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Greeneville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities should be a priority. Careful consideration of the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services is also vital. Planning for potential delays due to traffic or weather is also important.

Ultimately, the "COPD Score" depends on the individual's specific needs and circumstances. Factors such as the severity of their COPD, their mobility, and their financial resources will influence their ability to access healthcare. Careful planning and proactive investigation of transportation options are essential for ensuring seamless healthcare access. The ease of **transportation** directly impacts **healthcare access**, making it a critical factor for anyone **moving to Greeneville** with COPD.