37705, Andersonville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37705, Andersonville, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.92 percent of residents in 37705 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.63 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Andersonville (ZIP Code 37705)

Andersonville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37705), a community nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. This analysis delves into the transportation infrastructure impacting residents' ability to reach medical care, focusing on individuals managing hypertension, a condition often requiring frequent check-ups and medication refills. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is crucial for residents, especially those considering **moving to Andersonville**, as it directly impacts their **healthcare access** and overall well-being. We will explore the various avenues available, from personal vehicles to public transportation, and assess their practicality for patients managing hypertension.

The cornerstone of transportation in Andersonville is the personal vehicle. The primary artery connecting the area to Knoxville and surrounding healthcare facilities is Interstate 75 (I-75). Driving south on I-75, the commute to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating the interstate, a relatively straightforward journey, but one that can be impacted by accidents or congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Accessing smaller clinics and specialists in nearby towns like Clinton or Oak Ridge involves shorter drives, typically 15-25 minutes via State Route 61 (Clinton Highway) or State Route 170.

Beyond I-75, local roads play a vital role. State Route 61, a major thoroughfare, provides direct access to Clinton and Oak Ridge. This route, while offering scenic views, can experience heavy traffic, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. Other secondary roads, such as State Route 170 and various county roads, provide alternative routes but may be less maintained and offer fewer amenities, potentially impacting the comfort and safety of travel, especially for those with mobility limitations or needing to manage their blood pressure during the journey. For individuals **moving to Andersonville**, understanding these road conditions and potential traffic bottlenecks is crucial.

Public transportation options in Andersonville are limited. The Anderson County government operates a demand-response transit system, which provides door-to-door service for residents. However, this service requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The system’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor; it is designed to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While the system is a valuable resource for some, its scheduling constraints and potential wait times may pose challenges for those needing frequent or time-sensitive healthcare appointments.

The nearest public bus service originates in Knoxville. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system does not directly serve Andersonville. This means that residents would need to arrange private transportation to Knoxville to access the bus system, adding another layer of complexity and time to their **healthcare access**. This significantly limits the public transportation options for Andersonville residents, making reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods essential. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a convenient alternative to driving. However, their availability and cost can vary. Ride-sharing services are generally more readily available in urban areas, and their presence in Andersonville may be less consistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Individuals managing hypertension often require regular check-ups and medication refills, making the financial burden of ride-sharing a potential concern. The reliability of ride-sharing services in the area and their affordability are crucial considerations for those seeking **healthcare access**.

Medical transportation services offer specialized transportation for patients needing medical care. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who need assistance getting to and from appointments. These services are typically designed for patients with mobility issues or other medical needs. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs. The availability of these services and their ability to accommodate the specific needs of hypertension patients are essential factors to consider.

For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to quickly and reliably access medical care is paramount. The transportation landscape in Andersonville presents both opportunities and challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services highlight the importance of exploring all available avenues.

The **healthcare access** picture in Andersonville emphasizes the significance of proactive planning for individuals managing hypertension. This includes understanding the drive times to various healthcare providers, exploring the feasibility of ride-sharing or medical transportation services, and considering the potential impact of traffic and road conditions.

The **moving to Andersonville** decision requires a thorough assessment of transportation options and their impact on **healthcare access**. This analysis underscores the importance of considering all available resources and planning for potential challenges to ensure that residents can receive the timely and effective care they need to manage their hypertension and maintain their overall health and well-being. The community’s infrastructure and the availability of various transportation options play a vital role in the health and wellness of its residents.