38554, Crawford, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 38554, Crawford, Tennessee is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.26 percent of residents in 38554 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Livingston Regional Hospital with a distance of 13.35 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crawford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38554)

The crisp air of the Cumberland Plateau, a defining characteristic of Crawford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38554), might seem idyllic. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the reality of accessing healthcare in this rural setting can be a significant challenge. This "COPD Score" write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Crawford or already residing there. We will assess the landscape of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and medical transport, to offer a clearer picture of the practicalities of managing COPD within this community.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Crawford revolves around the limitations of its geography. The town is nestled within a relatively sparsely populated area, meaning that the availability of diverse transportation options is limited. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Cookeville, approximately 25 miles to the west. This distance, coupled with the winding roads and potential for inclement weather, directly impacts the COPD Score, reflecting the potential for delays and difficulties in reaching essential medical appointments.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Crawford. The primary route to Cookeville involves navigating US Highway 70, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic, particularly during peak hours. The journey typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic flow and the driver's speed. Secondary routes, such as State Route 136, offer alternative paths, but these roads are often more winding and less well-maintained, potentially adding to the travel time and increasing the risk of delays, particularly for individuals with compromised respiratory function.

The condition of the roads themselves is a crucial factor. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and the presence of steep grades can exacerbate breathing difficulties for COPD patients. Moreover, the potential for adverse weather conditions, including ice and snow during the winter months, can render travel hazardous and necessitate careful planning and consideration. The COPD Score must account for these environmental factors, as they directly influence the reliability and safety of personal vehicle transportation.

Public transportation options in Crawford are limited. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides a demand-response transportation service, but it's not a fixed-route system. Individuals must schedule rides in advance, and availability can be constrained, especially for appointments outside of standard business hours. Furthermore, the UCHRA vehicles may not always be equipped with the specific features required for individuals with COPD, such as oxygen tank storage or easy accessibility for those with mobility limitations. The COPD Score must reflect this lack of readily available, reliable public transit.

ADA compliance is a critical aspect of public transportation. While the UCHRA strives to provide accessible services, the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations may vary. Individuals with COPD who also have mobility limitations must verify the availability of these features when scheduling rides. The COPD Score will consider the potential for accessibility challenges within the existing public transportation infrastructure.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Crawford. The sparse population and limited demand make it economically unviable for these services to operate in the area. This absence of ride-sharing options further compounds the transportation challenges for individuals with COPD, as it eliminates a potentially convenient and flexible alternative to personal vehicles or scheduled public transit.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available but may come with limitations. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific geographic restrictions. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. The COPD Score will evaluate the availability, cost, and geographic limitations of medical transportation services in the area.

The availability of home healthcare services is another critical element. For individuals with COPD who experience significant mobility limitations, the ability to receive in-home medical care can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the need for frequent trips to medical facilities. The COPD Score will assess the availability of home healthcare providers in Crawford and the surrounding areas, considering the range of services offered and the accessibility of these services to individuals with COPD.

The location of pharmacies is another factor. Access to prescription medications is essential for managing COPD. Crawford has limited pharmacy options, and the nearest major pharmacies are located in Cookeville. This necessitates travel for prescription refills and other pharmacy-related needs. The COPD Score must consider the distance and accessibility of pharmacies, as well as the availability of home delivery services.

The overall COPD Score for Crawford (ZIP Code 38554) is influenced by several intertwined factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the potential challenges associated with medical transport and the need to travel to Cookeville all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access landscape. The COPD Score must reflect the challenges of transportation, healthcare access, and the practical considerations for those considering moving to Crawford or already residing there.

Ultimately, the "COPD Score" for Crawford, Tennessee, highlights the need for careful planning and consideration for individuals with COPD. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the transportation challenges can create significant hurdles in accessing timely and appropriate healthcare. The score emphasizes the importance of proactively assessing transportation options, exploring available resources, and developing strategies to mitigate the difficulties associated with healthcare access in this rural setting. The score should provide a realistic picture of the challenges and assist in making informed decisions about healthcare management and overall well-being.