37873, Surgoinsville, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37873, Surgoinsville, Tennessee is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.86 percent of residents in 37873 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hawkins County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.64 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Surgoinsville (ZIP Code 37873)

The crisp air of Surgoinsville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37873), nestled in the Appalachian foothills, offers a certain tranquility. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of rural living is often juxtaposed with the challenge of accessing timely healthcare. This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, examines the transportation landscape, crucial for individuals with COPD, focusing on healthcare access within and from this specific ZIP code. It's a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Surgoinsville, given the disease's impact on mobility and respiratory function.

The foundation of healthcare access in Surgoinsville rests on the ability to reach medical facilities. The primary artery for this is State Route 11W, a vital corridor connecting the community to larger towns and cities. Driving times are a critical factor for COPD patients, as exacerbations can necessitate rapid medical intervention. A drive to Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey utilizes both 11W and the Interstate 26 (I-26) corridor, offering a more direct route.

Further complicating matters, the terrain of Surgoinsville and the surrounding area, with its rolling hills and winding roads, can pose additional challenges for individuals with breathing difficulties. The elevation changes and potential for exertion during travel can exacerbate COPD symptoms. This makes the availability of alternative transportation options, besides private vehicles, essential.

Public transportation, in the form of bus routes, is limited in this rural setting. The Kingsport Area Transit Service (KATS) might offer some limited services, but the frequency and coverage, especially within the specific boundaries of 37873, are likely sparse. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with COPD, needs careful investigation. Detailed information regarding route numbers, schedules, and ADA features is vital for any COPD patient relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kingsport area. However, their reliability and affordability in Surgoinsville, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, are uncertain. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips to medical appointments could become a significant financial burden for individuals managing COPD. The availability of these services needs to be confirmed and evaluated in terms of cost and accessibility.

Specialized medical transportation services are another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) offer services tailored to patients with medical needs. These companies often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients during their journeys. Researching the availability of NEMT providers serving 37873 and their associated costs is a crucial step in assessing healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Surgoinsville with COPD, the location of their primary care physician and specialists is paramount. The proximity of these healthcare providers to their residence significantly impacts their ability to manage their condition effectively. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, crucial for managing COPD symptoms and improving quality of life, also needs to be investigated.

The drive to the nearest pharmacies to pick up prescriptions is also a factor. The distance to pharmacies and the ease of navigating the roads to get there are all essential considerations. A longer drive time to pick up medication can be a significant inconvenience for individuals with COPD.

The COPD Score for Surgoinsville (37873) would, therefore, be a composite measure of several factors. It would consider the average drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation options. The score would also incorporate information on the availability of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs within a reasonable distance.

In conclusion, while Surgoinsville offers a peaceful environment, its rural setting presents specific transportation challenges for individuals with COPD. A comprehensive understanding of the transportation infrastructure, including highways, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, is crucial for assessing healthcare access. Anyone considering moving to Surgoinsville with COPD must carefully evaluate these factors to ensure they can effectively manage their condition and maintain their quality of life. The availability of resources and the ease of transportation are crucial to the overall well-being of people living with COPD.