37369, Reliance, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37369, Reliance, Tennessee is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.77 percent of residents in 37369 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 18.83 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reliance, TN (ZIP Code 37369)

Reliance, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Cherokee National Forest, offers a tranquil lifestyle, a welcome escape from the urban clamor. However, this serenity presents a unique challenge: healthcare access. For residents managing hypertension, the ability to reach medical care quickly and reliably is paramount. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 37369, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering the crucial factor of transportation in managing this prevalent condition.

The cornerstone of healthcare access for many Reliance residents is personal vehicle transportation. The primary arteries connecting Reliance to healthcare facilities are US-64 and TN-30. These roadways, while scenic, can become congested, particularly during peak hours or when seasonal tourism increases traffic. The drive to the nearest hospital, CHI Memorial Hospital in Cleveland, Tennessee, is approximately 25 miles, a journey that can take between 35 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic flow. This time factor is critical. A hypertensive crisis demands prompt medical attention.

The secondary access to healthcare is via local clinics and physician offices. Reliance itself has limited healthcare infrastructure, meaning residents often travel to neighboring towns like Cleveland or Athens. The drive to Athens, primarily via TN-30, is shorter, about 20 miles, offering a potential alternative for routine check-ups and medication refills. However, the quality and availability of specialized care in Athens might be limited compared to Cleveland.

Public transportation options in the region are sparse. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system is a significant drawback for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive due to health limitations. This lack of options creates a transportation barrier, potentially delaying access to vital medical appointments and medication. The absence of public transit directly impacts the Hypertension Score, lowering it significantly.

For those unable to drive, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft offer a potential solution. However, the availability of these services in Reliance is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services directly affects the Hypertension Score, making it variable and dependent on circumstances.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, are another option. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transport. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, but they often require advance booking and can be costly. The availability and cost of medical transportation services influence the Hypertension Score, adding a layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of existing transportation options is a crucial consideration. The absence of ADA-compliant public transit and the limited availability of accessible ride-sharing vehicles pose a significant challenge for individuals with mobility impairments. This lack of accessibility further diminishes the Hypertension Score for those with specific needs.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of healthcare access, incorporating transportation factors. For residents of Reliance, the score is moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to this assessment.

Moving to Reliance requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents with hypertension should thoroughly investigate transportation options, including their reliability, cost, and accessibility. They should also research the availability of healthcare providers and the distance to emergency medical services.

The development of improved public transportation, including ADA-compliant services, would significantly enhance the Hypertension Score for Reliance residents. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and transportation companies could also improve access, such as subsidized ride-sharing programs or dedicated medical transport services.

The location of Reliance, while offering a peaceful environment, presents a transportation challenge for healthcare access. The distance to hospitals and specialized medical facilities, coupled with the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles, requires careful planning and consideration for individuals managing hypertension.

The future of healthcare access in Reliance may involve innovative solutions. Telemedicine, for instance, could bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. However, telemedicine relies on reliable internet access, another factor to consider in this rural setting.

In conclusion, managing hypertension in Reliance demands proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, establish relationships with local healthcare providers, and consider the potential for unexpected delays or disruptions. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of transportation in ensuring timely and effective healthcare access, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and support services in this charming but geographically isolated community.