37665, Kingsport, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37665, Kingsport, Tennessee is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.19 percent of residents in 37665 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center with a distance of 2.15 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37665

Considering a move to Kingsport, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37665)? This analysis delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. We'll explore the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities to gauge the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments. This "Hypertension Score" aims to provide a practical understanding of the challenges and advantages of accessing healthcare within this specific area, vital for anyone prioritizing their well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to get to appointments. In Kingsport, this often means navigating the roads. From the heart of 37665, driving to major healthcare providers like Holston Valley Medical Center or Indian Path Community Hospital presents varying commute times. Traffic patterns, especially during peak hours, significantly impact these times.

Heading to Holston Valley Medical Center, located just off **Interstate 26 (I-26)**, a drive from the central areas of 37665 could range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The **I-26** provides a direct route, making it relatively straightforward. However, during rush hour, the ramps and merging lanes can become congested, extending travel times.

Alternatively, reaching Indian Path Community Hospital, situated near **Highway 11W (East Stone Drive)**, may involve a similar time frame. The route often utilizes **Highway 11W**, a major thoroughfare. This road experiences significant traffic, particularly near commercial areas. Navigating this route requires careful attention to speed limits and potential delays.

Beyond these major hospitals, access to specialist offices and clinics is also crucial. These locations are often scattered throughout the city, potentially increasing travel times. Residents should factor in travel to these secondary locations when assessing their overall healthcare access.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though it is limited in Kingsport. The Kingsport Area Transit System (KATS) operates several routes. However, the coverage within 37665 and to major healthcare facilities is not comprehensive. Routes are numbered, and schedules are available online.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for those with mobility limitations. KATS buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts. However, the frequency of service and the route coverage may pose challenges for some individuals. The effectiveness of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot drive.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Kingsport. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized providers, are another option. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering door-to-door transportation. They are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Hypertension Score" for 37665 considers the interplay of these factors. It acknowledges the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing. The score reflects the potential challenges individuals with hypertension may face in consistently accessing healthcare.

For someone with hypertension, regular medical check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments are paramount. The ability to reach these appointments reliably and without undue stress is critical for managing the condition effectively. The commute time, traffic conditions, and transportation options all contribute to the overall ease or difficulty of accessing care.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP Code is another factor. While 37665 has access to several healthcare providers, the distance to these facilities and the transportation options available to reach them are key. Proximity to pharmacies for medication refills is also crucial.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that can change based on individual circumstances. Factors like age, mobility, income, and access to support networks all influence the ease of accessing healthcare. For an elderly individual with limited mobility and no access to a personal vehicle, the "Hypertension Score" would likely be lower than for a younger, able-bodied individual with a car.

The impact of traffic on healthcare access is a significant consideration. Rush hour congestion, especially on **I-26** and **Highway 11W**, can significantly increase commute times. This can lead to missed appointments, increased stress, and potentially impact the quality of care.

The cost of transportation is another critical factor. The expense of owning and maintaining a vehicle, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transportation services all contribute to the overall financial burden of healthcare access.

Considering a move to Kingsport, individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their transportation needs. They should assess the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of transportation.

The "Hypertension Score" for 37665 is a tool to aid in this evaluation. It provides a framework for understanding the challenges and advantages of accessing healthcare in this specific area. The score emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation.

For those who rely on public transit, understanding the route schedules and ADA accessibility features is crucial. For those who utilize ride-sharing services, budgeting for transportation costs is essential.

The healthcare system in Kingsport, like any other, is constantly evolving. New clinics and specialist offices may open. Public transit routes may change. Residents should stay informed about these developments to ensure they can continue to access the care they need.

When moving to Kingsport, particularly for those managing hypertension, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. Researching the location of healthcare providers, exploring transportation options, and assessing the potential costs involved are all critical steps.

The "Hypertension Score" is a starting point for this process. It provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in 37665, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of 37665 can easily and reliably access the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension and live healthy lives. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is central to achieving this goal.