37305, Beersheba Springs, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37305, Beersheba Springs, Tennessee is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.58 percent of residents in 37305 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 23.91 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 37305

The crisp air of Beersheba Springs, Tennessee, beckons with promises of tranquility. Yet, for those considering a move to this charming enclave within ZIP Code 37305, a crucial consideration often overlooked is healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up serves as a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, exploring the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching essential medical services. We'll delve into the realities of commuting to healthcare, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a picture of the accessibility challenges and opportunities for those seeking to call Beersheba Springs home.

The very essence of managing hypertension hinges on consistent healthcare engagement. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are critical. Therefore, the ease with which one can access a doctor, pharmacy, and other related services directly impacts the quality of life for individuals with hypertension. The 'Hypertension Score' aims to quantify this accessibility, providing a practical guide for prospective residents.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in and out of Beersheba Springs is **Highway 108**, a winding road that connects the community to larger towns and cities. Driving to the nearest hospital, **Cumberland Medical Center** in Crossville, entails a journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive primarily utilizes **Highway 108** and then transitions onto **I-40 East**. The time commitment can be significant, especially during inclement weather, and poses a potential barrier for those requiring frequent medical attention.

Another option is the **Parkridge Medical Center** in Chattanooga, which is a longer journey of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. This route involves a combination of **Highway 108**, **Highway 127**, and **I-24 West**. While offering a wider range of specialized care, the extended drive time adds to the complexity of healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 37305 are limited. There is no established public bus system directly serving Beersheba Springs. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations. This absence of options is a major factor in the 'Hypertension Score'.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations like Beersheba Springs. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore precarious. The unpredictability of ride-sharing availability adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies, are primarily reserved for emergency situations. Their use for routine appointments is generally impractical due to cost and logistical constraints. While these services are vital in critical situations, they do not provide a sustainable solution for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The nearest pharmacies are located in the towns surrounding Beersheba Springs. Reaching these pharmacies necessitates a drive, usually along **Highway 108**. The time commitment varies, but it is typically around 15-30 minutes to reach a pharmacy in the nearby towns. This necessitates the need for planning and coordination to ensure timely medication refills.

The physical layout of Beersheba Springs presents additional challenges. The hilly terrain and winding roads can make walking and cycling difficult, further limiting alternative transportation options. This geographical constraint adds another layer of complexity to the overall 'Hypertension Score'.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 37305 is therefore influenced by several factors. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, which is essential for accessing healthcare services. The drive times to hospitals and pharmacies are moderate, but the lack of public transportation and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services are significant drawbacks.

For individuals with hypertension, the 'Hypertension Score' in 37305 reflects the importance of careful planning and preparedness. Regular medical appointments require dedicated time and effort. This requires individuals to be proactive in scheduling appointments and planning their transportation.

The 'Hypertension Score' is also affected by the individual's physical condition. For individuals with mobility limitations, the lack of public transportation and the challenges of walking and cycling become even more pronounced. These individuals will need to rely on family, friends, or specialized transportation services to access healthcare.

The 'Hypertension Score' also highlights the importance of community support. The presence of a strong support network can significantly improve healthcare access. Family, friends, and neighbors can provide transportation assistance, medication reminders, and emotional support.

The process of moving to Beersheba Springs requires a holistic approach to healthcare access. Prospective residents with hypertension should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and consider the availability of support services. They should also research local healthcare providers and pharmacies to ensure they can meet their medical needs.

Ultimately, the 'Hypertension Score' serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the availability of medical facilities. It is also about the ability to reach those facilities in a timely and reliable manner. For those considering a move to Beersheba Springs, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 37305, therefore, is not a simple numerical value. It is a complex assessment that considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and the physical characteristics of the area. It underscores the importance of careful planning and preparation for individuals with hypertension who are considering moving to this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, community. The allure of Beersheba Springs is undeniable, but the reality of healthcare access must be carefully considered.