37391, Turtletown, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37391, Turtletown, Tennessee is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.60 percent of residents in 37391 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 25.80 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Turtletown, ZIP Code 37391**

Welcome to Turtletown, Tennessee, a community nestled in the heart of the Volunteer State. For prospective residents, understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially for those managing conditions like hypertension. This report delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 37391, assessing its impact on healthcare access, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability.

The primary arteries of Turtletown, namely Interstate 75 (I-75) and U.S. Route 64, dictate much of the transportation flow. I-75 provides north-south connectivity, while U.S. 64 offers east-west passage. These highways are critical for accessing medical facilities located both within and outside the immediate Turtletown area. However, the effectiveness of these routes is contingent upon traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

Commuting by car is the most prevalent mode of transportation in Turtletown. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day. The closest facilities, such as the Turtletown Community Clinic, might be accessible within a 10-15 minute drive via local roads like Main Street or Oak Avenue. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate travel to larger hospitals in nearby cities like Chattanooga, potentially involving a 45-60 minute drive along I-75.

Public transit options, while available, are limited in Turtletown. The local transit authority operates a bus service with routes that may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Route 10, for instance, might provide a connection to a local clinic, but accessibility to specialist appointments could involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. The transit authority should ensure all buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and offer priority seating.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. However, ride-sharing availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Medical transport services, such as those offered by CareRide or MediRide, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

The "Hypertension Score" for Turtletown, ZIP code 37391, is derived from a composite of factors, including drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score reflects the overall ease with which individuals with hypertension can access necessary healthcare services. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

Drive times are a significant component of the score. The average drive time to a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a nephrologist is calculated. Shorter drive times contribute to a higher score, as they minimize the burden on patients and reduce the potential for stress. Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour on I-75, is factored into the calculation.

Public transit accessibility is another crucial factor. The availability of bus routes that directly serve healthcare facilities and the frequency of service influence the score. ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and priority seating, are essential for individuals with mobility limitations. The score reflects the extent to which public transit provides a viable and accessible option for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing and medical transport services also contribute to the score. The availability of Uber, Lyft, and medical transport providers like CareRide and MediRide, and their associated costs, are assessed. The score considers the reliability and affordability of these services as alternatives to personal vehicles or public transit.

For individuals with hypertension, timely access to healthcare is critical for managing their condition and preventing complications. The "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable tool for assessing the transportation landscape in Turtletown and its impact on healthcare access. It helps potential residents understand the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing medical care.

The score is not static; it can change based on infrastructure improvements, changes in public transit routes, or the expansion of ride-sharing services. The local government and healthcare providers can use this information to improve transportation options and enhance healthcare access for residents with hypertension.

Moving to Turtletown, especially if you have hypertension, requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" offers a valuable tool for assessing the feasibility of living in this community. It highlights the importance of planning for healthcare appointments, exploring transportation options, and understanding the potential challenges.

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present potential hurdles. Ride-sharing services and medical transport offer alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals with hypertension, proactive planning is key. This includes understanding the location of healthcare providers, familiarizing themselves with transportation options, and considering the potential impact of traffic congestion. The "Hypertension Score" can serve as a guide, helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their overall quality of life in Turtletown.

The local community has a role to play in improving healthcare access. Investing in public transit, promoting ride-sharing, and supporting medical transport services can significantly enhance the "Hypertension Score" and improve the lives of residents with hypertension.

In conclusion, Turtletown, ZIP code 37391, presents a mixed bag of transportation and healthcare access opportunities. While the community offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for assessing these factors and making informed decisions. By understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, prospective residents can make a well-informed choice about moving to Turtletown and managing their hypertension effectively.