The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37361, Ocoee, Tennessee is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
61.51 percent of residents in 37361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 10.70 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37361, Ocoee, Tennessee
Hypertension Score | 32 |
---|---|
People Score | 92 |
Provider Score | 34 |
Hospital Score | 24 |
Travel Score | 17 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37361 | Ocoee | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.63 | 1.63 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 20.25 | 20.25 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 39.24 | 39.24 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 38.88 | 38.88 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37361, Ocoee, Tennessee
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 37361
The tranquility of Ocoee, Tennessee (ZIP code 37361), nestled amidst the Cherokee National Forest, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a growing community. However, for residents managing hypertension, the idyllic setting presents a critical challenge: ensuring reliable and timely access to healthcare. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around 37361, assessing its impact on healthcare access and providing a "Hypertension Score" to help residents understand the realities of managing their condition in this location.
The Hypertension Score will be calculated based on several factors, including drive times to healthcare facilities, availability of public transportation, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. Each category will be evaluated and weighted to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals with hypertension in 37361. The ultimate goal is to empower residents with the knowledge needed to proactively manage their health within the context of their transportation options.
**Drive Times: The Arterial Network**
For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount. The nearest major medical center is CHI Memorial Hospital Cleveland, located approximately 20 miles east of Ocoee. The journey typically involves navigating the winding roads and scenic routes. The primary route is via US-64 East, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.
Traveling east on US-64, you'll pass through areas with limited healthcare facilities. Once reaching Cleveland, the hospital is accessible via Keith Street, a major thoroughfare. Drive times can range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within 37361.
Other healthcare options include clinics and urgent care facilities within Cleveland and the surrounding areas. These facilities may be reached via various secondary roads, such as Ocoee Street or Spring Place Road. Drive times to these facilities will vary but generally range from 20 to 35 minutes.
For those seeking specialized care, the journey to Chattanooga, approximately 60 miles west, becomes necessary. This trip involves traveling on I-75 South, a major interstate highway. Traffic on I-75 can be unpredictable, especially during rush hour. Drive times to Chattanooga medical centers can range from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
**Public Transit: A Limited Arterial Flow**
Public transportation options in 37361 are extremely limited. The Cleveland Urban Area Transit System (CUATS) provides some bus service within Cleveland, but its routes do not extend to Ocoee. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or ride-sharing options.
CUATS operates on a fixed-route system with limited hours of operation. The buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the lack of service in Ocoee significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who rely on public transit.
The absence of robust public transportation poses a significant challenge for residents with hypertension, especially those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive. This deficiency contributes to a lower Hypertension Score for the area.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Cleveland area and can provide an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation to and from medical appointments. However, availability and cost can vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the individual.
The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport highlights the vulnerability of healthcare access in 37361. While these options provide a lifeline for some, they are not a comprehensive solution and can be subject to logistical constraints.
**Hypertension Score Calculation and Implications**
Based on the factors discussed, the Hypertension Score for 37361 is considered **Moderate to Challenging**. The score reflects the following:
* **Drive Times:** Moderate. While the nearest medical facilities are accessible within a reasonable timeframe, longer journeys to Chattanooga for specialized care pose a challenge.
* **Public Transit:** Very Limited. The absence of public transportation significantly restricts healthcare access.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** Moderate. Ride-sharing and medical transport offer alternatives, but availability and cost can be barriers.
**Recommendations for Residents**
For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Ocoee or currently residing there, proactive planning is crucial.
* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive and the availability of family or friends to provide transportation.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:** Research local ride-sharing services and medical transport providers to understand their availability, cost, and service areas.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** If possible, prioritize housing options that are closer to healthcare facilities or on routes with more accessible transportation options.
* **Advocate for Improved Transportation:** Support initiatives to improve public transportation options in the area.
* **Develop a Healthcare Plan:** Work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan that considers your transportation limitations and ensures timely access to medical care.
**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**
Managing hypertension in 37361 requires careful consideration of transportation limitations. While the area offers natural beauty and a close-knit community, the lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present significant challenges to healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents can navigate these challenges and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate care necessary to manage their hypertension effectively. The community must advocate for improved transportation infrastructure and explore innovative solutions to enhance healthcare access for all residents, making 37361 a truly healthy and thriving place to live.
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