37324, Decherd, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37324, Decherd, Tennessee is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.57 percent of residents in 37324 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 18.22 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Decherd, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37324)

The journey to managing hypertension in Decherd, Tennessee, is inextricably linked to the availability and efficiency of transportation. A comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for this ZIP code must consider the critical interplay between healthcare access and the various modes of transportation available, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. This analysis, crucial for residents and those considering moving to Decherd, aims to illuminate the realities of accessing essential medical care.

Decherd, nestled in Franklin County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 24 (I-24), which bisects the area, and US Highway 41A, a major north-south thoroughfare. Secondary roads like Cowan Highway and Old US 41A provide alternative routes, though these can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The presence of these highways significantly influences drive times to healthcare facilities, directly impacting the ability to receive timely treatment for hypertension.

For individuals reliant on personal vehicles, drive times to healthcare providers are a crucial factor. The closest major medical centers are located in Winchester, approximately a 10 to 15-minute drive via I-24 or US-41A, and in Tullahoma, roughly a 20 to 25-minute drive. These estimates are subject to fluctuations depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location of the healthcare facility within those cities. The accessibility of these facilities is therefore a primary determinant of the Hypertension Score.

Public transportation options in Decherd are limited. Franklin County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This deficiency is a significant factor to consider when evaluating the Hypertension Score. The absence of robust public transportation creates a barrier to healthcare, especially for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Decherd, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability and affordability of these services can vary. Ride-sharing availability might be less consistent compared to larger urban areas, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as medical appointments, could pose a financial burden. The reliability of ride-sharing for regular medical appointments must be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like FirstMed Transportation and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often offering door-to-door service. While these services can be invaluable, they typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs that need to be factored into the overall affordability of healthcare. The availability of these services is a crucial component of the Hypertension Score.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any available transportation options is another critical consideration. While ride-sharing services strive to offer accessible vehicles, their availability cannot be guaranteed. Medical transportation services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but their availability and cost must be carefully evaluated. The lack of ADA-compliant public transportation is a significant challenge for individuals with mobility impairments.

The Hypertension Score, therefore, must reflect the multifaceted nature of healthcare access in Decherd. It must account for drive times to medical facilities, the limitations of public transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. This score is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges and opportunities faced by residents in managing their health.

For individuals considering moving to Decherd, a thorough understanding of these transportation realities is paramount. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the associated costs must be carefully weighed. A high Hypertension Score, indicating ease of access to care, is directly linked to a robust transportation infrastructure. Conversely, a low score highlights potential barriers to healthcare, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the simple act of getting to a doctor's appointment. It influences the ability to pick up prescriptions, attend follow-up visits, and participate in preventative care programs. The availability of reliable transportation is therefore directly linked to the overall health and well-being of the community.

The strategic location of healthcare facilities within the region also plays a vital role. The presence of urgent care clinics, primary care physicians, and specialists in Winchester and Tullahoma provides a safety net for residents of Decherd. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options to reach these facilities underscores the importance of a strong transportation network.

The development of the Hypertension Score should also consider the potential for future improvements in transportation infrastructure. This could include the expansion of ride-sharing services, the introduction of a public transportation system, or the enhancement of existing roadways. Such improvements would undoubtedly contribute to a higher Hypertension Score and improve healthcare access for all residents.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 37324 is not simply a measure of healthcare access; it's a complex assessment of the interplay between transportation and health. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the distances to healthcare facilities all contribute to the overall score. This comprehensive analysis is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Decherd, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare management and overall well-being. Understanding the transportation landscape is the first step towards navigating the path to better health in Decherd, Tennessee.