37140, Only, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37140, Only, Tennessee is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

2.20 percent of residents in 37140 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension Saint Thomas Three Rivers with a distance of 16.77 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37140**

Navigating the complexities of hypertension management in ZIP Code 37140 requires a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, particularly the challenges and opportunities presented by **transportation**. This write-up assesses the ease of reaching medical facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the relative accessibility of care. We will consider the impact of these factors on residents, especially those newly **moving to** the area or struggling with mobility limitations.

ZIP Code 37140, encompassing parts of Smyrna, Tennessee, offers a suburban landscape with its own unique healthcare access profile. The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** are Interstate 24 (I-24), a major east-west thoroughfare, and State Route 155 (Old Hickory Boulevard), which provides north-south connectivity. Smaller roads like Sam Ridley Parkway and Almaville Road further facilitate local travel.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in our score. For residents in the northern reaches of 37140, a trip to TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center in Smyrna, located just off I-24, might take approximately 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, those residing in the southern part of the zip code might face a 20-30 minute drive, especially during peak hours. Similarly, accessing Vanderbilt Rutherford Hospital in Murfreesboro, requires navigating I-24 or local roads, potentially adding to the travel time.

Traffic congestion, a perennial concern in the Nashville metropolitan area, significantly impacts drive times. Rush hour on I-24 can transform a short commute into a frustrating ordeal, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may experience elevated stress levels during such delays. This adds a layer of complexity to the overall healthcare access equation.

Public transit, while present, presents limitations. The Rutherford County Transit System (RCTS) offers bus routes, but their coverage within 37140 is limited. Route 99, for example, provides service along Sam Ridley Parkway, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities. However, frequency is a major consideration. Buses typically run on hourly or less frequent schedules, and the routes may not directly serve all medical offices.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical element. RCTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities can still pose challenges. Residents with mobility limitations may find the public transit option less than ideal.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative mode of **transportation**. These services are readily available in 37140, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. The cost, however, can be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. Moreover, reliance on ride-sharing necessitates smartphone ownership and digital literacy, which may exclude some residents.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients with medical needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local providers offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they provide a critical lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other forms of **transportation** due to their medical condition.

The availability of pharmacies within 37140 is another key consideration. Numerous pharmacies, including chain drugstores and independent pharmacies, are located throughout the zip code. This proximity to medication dispensing services reduces the overall burden of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension who require regular medication refills.

The presence of primary care physicians and specialists within the area also contributes to the overall accessibility of care. Smyrna and the surrounding areas boast a variety of medical practices, including internal medicine, cardiology, and endocrinology, all crucial for hypertension management. However, appointment availability and insurance acceptance are important factors to consider.

**Moving to** a new area often involves a period of adjustment, especially when healthcare access is concerned. Individuals with hypertension must establish relationships with healthcare providers, understand local **transportation** options, and familiarize themselves with the healthcare landscape. This process requires proactive planning and a willingness to explore available resources.

The "Hypertension Score" for 37140, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. Drive times are generally manageable, but traffic congestion can be a significant impediment. Public transit offers limited coverage, and ride-sharing and medical transport come with cost considerations. The availability of pharmacies and medical providers within the area provides a positive counterbalance.

To improve the "Hypertension Score," several recommendations can be made. Expanding public transit routes and increasing frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access. Encouraging the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits. Furthermore, community outreach programs can educate residents about available resources and assist them in navigating the healthcare system.

In conclusion, while 37140 offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, challenges related to **transportation** exist. Residents must carefully consider their individual circumstances, including mobility limitations, financial constraints, and access to technology, when assessing their ability to manage hypertension effectively. The "Hypertension Score" for 37140 is moderately positive, but improvements in public transit, telehealth adoption, and community support can further enhance the quality of life for residents managing this chronic condition.