37355, Manchester, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37355, Manchester, Tennessee is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.84 percent of residents in 37355 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 0.77 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Manchester, TN (ZIP Code 37355)

Considering a move to Manchester, Tennessee (ZIP code 37355)? This vibrant city, nestled in the heart of Coffee County, offers a compelling blend of small-town charm and access to essential services. However, for individuals managing hypertension, a critical factor in choosing a new home is healthcare access. This "Hypertension Score" delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities in and around Manchester, providing a detailed assessment of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately aiding prospective residents in understanding their healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Manchester is the Unity Medical Center, a vital community hospital. Understanding the transportation dynamics to this facility is paramount. For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of travel are Interstate 24 (I-24) and US Highway 41. Traveling from the eastern reaches of the ZIP code, such as areas near the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC), a drive to Unity Medical Center generally involves a straightforward journey on US-41, typically taking around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

From the western side of Manchester, especially areas near the Duck River, the commute often necessitates navigating local roads like Hillsboro Boulevard to reach US-41, and then proceeding to the hospital. This route can take approximately 10 to 20 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow. During peak hours, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, congestion on US-41 can extend these travel times, underscoring the importance of factoring in potential delays when planning appointments or seeking emergency care.

Public transportation options, while present, offer a more limited scope in Manchester. The Coffee County Transit Authority provides bus services within the county, although the routes and frequency are not extensive. Information on specific routes and schedules, including ADA-compliant features, can be obtained by contacting the Coffee County Transit Authority directly. This information is vital for individuals who are unable to drive or who prefer not to drive.

For individuals without access to personal vehicles and limited public transit options, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Manchester. However, availability and wait times can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas further from the city center. The reliability of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access, as delays could impact timely access to medical appointments or emergency services.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies specializing in medical transport, such as AMR (American Medical Response) or local providers, can provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria, such as a doctor's referral.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of specialist care. While Unity Medical Center provides a range of services, including cardiology, some specialized treatments might necessitate travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Murfreesboro or Nashville. This increases the scope of transportation considerations.

Traveling to Murfreesboro, approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive via I-24, opens up access to facilities like Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. The journey involves navigating the busy interstate, and traffic conditions can significantly impact travel times. For those without personal vehicles, the options are limited. Ride-sharing services are available, but the cost and travel time must be factored in.

Accessing healthcare in Nashville, approximately a 1.5- to 2-hour drive via I-24, provides access to a wider array of specialized medical services and hospitals, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center. This journey requires careful planning due to the distance and potential for heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. The same transportation challenges apply as with Murfreesboro, with limited public transit options and reliance on ride-sharing services or medical transport.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the impact of location within the 37355 ZIP code. Residents in the more rural areas, further from Unity Medical Center, will face longer commute times and potentially greater challenges in accessing transportation. Proximity to major roads like I-24 and US-41 is a significant advantage, as it facilitates quicker access to healthcare facilities.

For individuals with hypertension, timely access to healthcare is crucial for managing their condition. Regular check-ups, medication management, and access to specialist care are essential components of effective hypertension management. The transportation options available in Manchester, TN (ZIP code 37355) directly impact the ability to access these critical services.

The "Hypertension Score" for Manchester, TN (ZIP code 37355) is therefore a nuanced assessment, weighing the advantages of living in a smaller community against the potential challenges of limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and preferences when considering a move to Manchester.

The city's proximity to major highways like I-24 and US-41 offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities, but the availability of public transit and the reliability of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered. For individuals with specific medical needs or mobility limitations, the availability of medical transportation services is an important factor to consider.

In conclusion, while Manchester offers a welcoming environment and a range of amenities, prospective residents with hypertension should carefully assess the transportation landscape, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transportation. This "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for making an informed decision about healthcare access when moving to Manchester. Understanding the commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions will empower individuals to make informed choices about their healthcare and their new home.