37659, Jonesborough, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37659, Jonesborough, Tennessee is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.70 percent of residents in 37659 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Woods Community Hospital with a distance of 5.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jonesborough, TN (ZIP Code 37659)

Moving to Jonesborough, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique set of considerations, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis focuses on transportation options available within ZIP code 37659, crucial for managing conditions like hypertension. We'll assess the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately informing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of healthcare access.

The landscape of healthcare access in Jonesborough is intertwined with the local transportation infrastructure. Unlike bustling metropolitan areas, the options are more limited, demanding a thoughtful approach to ensure consistent medical care. Residents, especially those managing hypertension, must understand the available routes and services to maintain their health.

**Driving Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Jonesborough is personal vehicles. Understanding drive times to various healthcare facilities is paramount. The primary artery for travel is **Interstate 26 (I-26)**, providing access to Johnson City and Kingsport, where many specialized medical services are located. From the center of Jonesborough, a drive to **Johnson City Medical Center** via I-26 typically takes around 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

Local roads, such as **US Route 11E (East Main Street)** and **TN-81**, offer alternative routes, but these are often slower and can be congested during peak hours. Travel to clinics and primary care physicians within Jonesborough, often accessible via these roads, typically takes less than 10 minutes. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, the faster route via I-26 is generally preferred.

The drive time to the **James H. Quillen VA Medical Center** in Mountain Home, just outside of Johnson City, is also a critical factor for veterans. This journey, primarily via I-26, usually takes about 25-30 minutes. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact drive times, necessitating extra planning and caution.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Resource**

Public transportation in Jonesborough, while present, is not as extensive as in larger cities. The **Johnson City Transit System (JCTS)** provides limited bus service in the area, primarily focusing on routes within Johnson City. While there is no direct bus route that specifically serves Jonesborough, a resident could utilize a combination of local routes and transfers to reach healthcare facilities.

The JCTS buses are generally ADA-accessible, meaning they are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers can make public transit a less convenient option, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent medical appointments. Careful planning and coordination are essential for utilizing public transit effectively.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Jonesborough area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle. Several local companies specialize in medical transport, offering a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation.

**Medical Transport Brands**

* **First Call Medical Transportation:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation services.
* **Care Ride:** Offers a range of transportation options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Mountain Home VA Transportation:** Provides transportation for veterans to and from the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center.

**Factors Influencing the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Jonesborough, 37659, is determined by several factors related to transportation and healthcare access. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport all play a crucial role.

The frequency of medical appointments, the individual's mobility limitations, and their financial resources also influence the score. A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests greater challenges.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score**

To calculate the score, we consider the following:

* **Drive Time Factor:** (Weighted by distance and traffic conditions)
* **Public Transit Factor:** (Availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility)
* **Ride-Sharing Factor:** (Availability, cost, and reliability)
* **Medical Transport Factor:** (Availability, cost, and specialized services)
* **Individual Needs Factor:** (Frequency of appointments, mobility limitations, and financial resources)

Each factor is assigned a numerical value, and the overall score is calculated based on these values. The score can range from 1 (very difficult access) to 10 (very easy access).

**Recommendations for Residents with Hypertension**

For residents of Jonesborough with hypertension, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician in the area is crucial. Understanding the drive times to various healthcare facilities, including specialists and emergency services, is paramount.

Utilizing ride-sharing services or medical transport for appointments, especially when driving is difficult, is a viable option. Exploring public transit options, even if limited, can be helpful. Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers about transportation challenges is vital.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Jonesborough**

The "Hypertension Score" for Jonesborough, 37659, reflects a landscape where healthcare access requires careful planning and utilization of available resources. While the transportation options are more limited than in larger urban areas, residents can successfully manage their hypertension by understanding the local infrastructure, exploring alternative transportation methods, and proactively planning for their healthcare needs. Moving to Jonesborough offers a unique lifestyle, and with proper planning, residents can maintain their health and well-being.