38579, Quebeck, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 38579, Quebeck, Tennessee is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.79 percent of residents in 38579 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital with a distance of 9.24 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38579**

Assessing healthcare access for individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options. In ZIP Code 38579, which encompasses Monterey, Tennessee, the ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably is crucial for managing this chronic respiratory illness. This analysis examines the available transportation infrastructure, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately providing a COPD Score reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare.

The primary challenge in Monterey, Tennessee, stems from its rural setting. The town is nestled within the Cumberland Plateau, influencing the transportation landscape. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 40 (I-40) and US Highway 70. I-40 provides east-west access, connecting Monterey to larger cities like Knoxville and Nashville, where specialized pulmonology care may be available. US Highway 70 runs parallel to I-40, offering a more local route.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical consideration. The closest hospital is Cookeville Regional Medical Center, approximately 15 miles east via I-40. During normal traffic conditions, this drive typically takes 20-30 minutes. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or due to accidents, can significantly extend this travel time, posing a considerable challenge for individuals with COPD who may experience respiratory distress.

Access to pulmonologists and specialized respiratory care is a vital factor. While Cookeville Regional Medical Center offers some respiratory services, patients may need to travel further for advanced treatments. Nashville, approximately 90 miles west, offers a broader range of specialists and hospitals. The drive to Nashville, primarily via I-40, can take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Knoxville, approximately 120 miles east, presents a similar travel scenario.

Public transportation options in Monterey are limited. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides demand-response transportation services. However, these services are primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities, with limited service hours and potential wait times. UCHRA operates a fleet of vehicles, including those with ADA accessibility features. The availability and reliability of this service are critical, especially for those unable to drive or who cannot afford other transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Monterey, though their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a significant hurdle for individuals with COPD, who may require urgent medical attention. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services are another crucial aspect of healthcare access. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are often covered by insurance, but availability and scheduling can be challenging, especially for last-minute appointments. The availability of oxygen and other medical equipment in these vehicles is essential for individuals with COPD.

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 38579 reflects the challenges of healthcare access. While the proximity of Cookeville Regional Medical Center offers some convenience, the limited public transportation, inconsistent ride-sharing services, and potential for extended drive times to specialized care facilities create significant barriers. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited availability of medical transport services contribute to a moderate to high COPD Score, indicating that healthcare access is a concern.

For individuals considering moving to Monterey, Tennessee, with COPD, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The ability to drive or have access to reliable transportation is critical. Planning for potential delays, considering the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services, and understanding the limitations of public transportation are crucial steps in ensuring access to necessary medical care.

The decision to move to a new location, especially for individuals with chronic health conditions, requires careful consideration. The availability of healthcare services and the ease of transportation are paramount. The potential for longer travel times to specialized care, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services must be carefully weighed.

The potential for moving to Quebeck, a small community near Monterey, offers a similar transportation landscape. While Quebeck may offer a quieter, more rural lifestyle, the healthcare access challenges remain. The drive times to Cookeville Regional Medical Center and the limited public transportation options are consistent. The COPD Score would likely be similar, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation needs.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for ZIP Code 38579 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the presence of Cookeville Regional Medical Center provides some level of care, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for extended drive times, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with COPD. Careful planning, consideration of transportation options, and a proactive approach to healthcare management are essential for ensuring access to necessary medical care in this area.