42223, Fort Campbell, Kentucky Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 42223, Fort Campbell, Kentucky is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

96.35 percent of residents in 42223 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blanchfield Ach (Ft Campbell) with a distance of 1.25 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 42223

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when considering a move to a new area. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 42223, home to Fort Campbell, focusing on its impact on individuals managing hypertension. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for healthcare access. This score reflects the ease and efficiency of reaching medical appointments, a crucial factor in maintaining consistent care for those with hypertension.

The primary challenge for residents of 42223 lies in its rural nature and the dispersed distribution of healthcare facilities. While the area offers essential services, specialized care often necessitates travel to nearby cities like Clarksville, Tennessee, or even further afield to Nashville. This geographical reality significantly impacts the Hypertension Score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation in 42223 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Understanding drive times is crucial. Accessing healthcare facilities within Fort Campbell itself is generally straightforward, with drive times typically under 15 minutes, depending on the specific location. However, for specialized care or appointments outside the base, travel times increase.

Reaching Clarksville, a major healthcare hub, involves navigating several roadways. The primary route is via **Highway 41A**, a well-maintained road that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. Drive times to Clarksville's hospitals and clinics typically range from 20 to 40 minutes, contingent on traffic and the specific destination. **Highway 79**, another significant thoroughfare, offers an alternative route, but it can be subject to more congestion.

For those requiring specialized care in Nashville, the journey becomes considerably longer. The most direct route involves **Interstate 24 East**, a major interstate highway. However, this route can be heavily congested, especially during rush hour. Expect drive times of at least one hour and 15 minutes, potentially stretching to two hours or more during peak travel periods. These extended drive times significantly impact the Hypertension Score, potentially increasing stress and making it difficult to adhere to scheduled appointments. This is a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to Fort Campbell.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 42223 are limited. The primary provider is the Clarksville Transit System (CTS), which operates several bus routes. However, these routes primarily serve Clarksville and offer limited service within the 42223 ZIP Code.

The CTS routes that do service areas near Fort Campbell are infrequent, with limited hours of operation, particularly on weekends and evenings. This makes them less viable for those with strict appointment schedules or those needing to travel to healthcare facilities outside of Clarksville.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on CTS buses is a crucial factor. While the CTS strives to provide accessible transportation, the reliability and availability of these features can vary. This is a significant consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, potentially impacting their ability to access healthcare. The limited scope and frequency of public transit contribute negatively to the Hypertension Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 42223, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. Surge pricing, common during periods of high demand, can also make these services expensive, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. Companies like MedTrans and other specialized providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, further impacting the Hypertension Score.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis, the Hypertension Score for 42223 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While on-base healthcare facilities offer convenient access, the limitations in transportation options for specialized care or appointments outside the base present challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for extended drive times, particularly to Nashville, can negatively impact the score. The limited public transit options and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services further contribute to the challenges.

**Factors impacting the score:**

* **Drive times:** Moderate to long, especially for specialized care.
* **Public transit:** Limited routes, infrequent service, and potential accessibility issues.
* **Ride-sharing:** Availability and cost can be inconsistent.
* **Medical transport:** Requires advanced booking and can be expensive.

**Recommendations for Improving the Score:**

* **Explore telehealth options:** Utilizing telemedicine services for routine check-ups and consultations can reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Plan appointments strategically:** Schedule appointments during off-peak hours to minimize traffic delays.
* **Investigate transportation assistance programs:** Explore local programs that offer transportation assistance to individuals with disabilities or low incomes.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare facilities:** When choosing housing, prioritize locations with easier access to healthcare providers.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives to expand and improve public transportation services in the area.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Fort Campbell and managing hypertension requires careful consideration of transportation options and healthcare access. While the area offers essential services, the limitations in public transit and the potential for extended drive times necessitate proactive planning. Understanding the transportation landscape and exploring available resources is crucial for maintaining consistent care and ensuring a high quality of life. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating healthcare access and making informed decisions about healthcare management in 42223.