38453, Dellrose, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 38453, Dellrose, Tennessee is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.05 percent of residents in 38453 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southern Tennessee Regional Health System Pulaski with a distance of 12.60 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dellrose (ZIP Code 38453)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up provides a detailed "COPD Score" assessment for residents of Dellrose, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38453), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Understanding these nuances is crucial, especially for those considering moving to Dellrose or seeking to optimize their healthcare journey within the community. We will explore the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical transport, evaluating their suitability for individuals with COPD.

The primary consideration for a COPD Score centers on the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical appointments, including doctor's visits, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency care. Factors such as travel time, road conditions, availability of public transportation, and the presence of specialized medical transport services all play a crucial role. We will assess each of these elements to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in Dellrose.

**Roadways and Drive Times**

Dellrose, a rural community, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The major thoroughfare connecting Dellrose to larger towns and healthcare facilities is **Highway 64**, running east-west. This highway offers a relatively direct route to Pulaski, the county seat, and the location of the Giles County Hospital. Drive time to Pulaski, approximately 15 miles, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Traveling to Huntsville, Alabama, a larger metropolitan area with more extensive healthcare options, involves taking **Highway 31** south. This trip, roughly 40 miles, can take up to an hour or more, especially during peak traffic times. The roads are generally well-maintained, but rural areas often have limited shoulders and can be affected by weather conditions. The **Highway 64** and **Highway 31** intersection is a key point of congestion, and this should be factored into your commute.

For residents in the northern parts of the zip code, access to healthcare in Lewisburg, Tennessee, is facilitated by **Highway 50**. This route, approximately 25 miles, will take you to Marshall Medical Center.

The condition of secondary roads, such as **Dellrose Road** and **Old Pulaski Highway**, also impacts healthcare access. These roads, while providing shorter routes to some destinations, may be less well-maintained, potentially posing challenges for individuals with COPD, particularly during inclement weather. Consider the impact of rough roads on breathing, especially if you are experiencing a flare-up.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Dellrose and the surrounding areas are limited. Giles County does not have a formal public bus system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or who prefer not to drive.

The absence of public transportation presents a significant hurdle for those with COPD, who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or other symptoms that make driving difficult or unsafe. The lack of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, which may have associated costs and availability limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability in Dellrose can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a critical factor in healthcare access, and the potential for delays or cancellations could significantly impact a patient's ability to keep medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, offer a more reliable option. Companies such as **CareRide** and **FirstMed Transportation** operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may have limitations regarding the distance they cover. The cost of these services can also be a significant consideration, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for COPD Patients**

The primary healthcare provider in Dellrose is the Giles County Hospital in Pulaski. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and some specialized medical services. For more specialized care, such as pulmonology, patients may need to travel to Huntsville, Alabama, or other larger cities.

Individuals with COPD require regular access to healthcare services, including pulmonary rehabilitation, medication management, and regular check-ups. The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation, and the associated costs all impact healthcare access. The COPD Score considers these factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility.

**Moving to Dellrose: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Dellrose, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services all need to be carefully considered.

Before making a move, prospective residents should research the availability and cost of medical transport services, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the potential impact of weather and road conditions on their ability to access healthcare. Planning for potential transportation challenges is crucial for ensuring continuity of care and maintaining a high quality of life.

**The COPD Score: A Summary**

The COPD Score for Dellrose (ZIP Code 38453) reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present significant hurdles. While ride-sharing services and medical transport provide alternative options, their availability, cost, and reliability must be carefully considered.

For individuals with COPD, a thorough assessment of transportation options is critical. Planning for potential transportation challenges, researching medical transport services, and understanding the distances to healthcare facilities are essential steps in ensuring access to timely and reliable medical care. The COPD Score serves as a guide, emphasizing the importance of transportation in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life in Dellrose.