37719, Coalfield, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37719, Coalfield, Tennessee is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.00 percent of residents in 37719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Methodist Medical Center Of Oak Ridge with a distance of 10.27 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37719**

The quiet community of Coalfield, Tennessee, nestled within ZIP code 37719, offers a serene escape for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, the allure of rural tranquility must be balanced against the practicalities of daily living, particularly healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score," a metaphorical gauge reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching medical care, specifically focusing on the challenges faced by residents managing hypertension, a condition often requiring frequent and timely appointments. The score considers various transportation options, assessing their impact on healthcare access.

The primary challenge for Coalfield residents is its relative isolation. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Oak Ridge, Knoxville, and Harriman. The primary route to Oak Ridge is via State Route 61, a winding two-lane road that can become congested during peak hours. The drive, typically spanning 20-30 minutes under ideal conditions, can easily extend to 45 minutes or more during rush hour or inclement weather. This delay can be a significant stressor for individuals with hypertension, exacerbating their condition.

Knoxville, offering a wider array of specialized medical services, is accessible via Interstate 75. This journey, though on a major highway, presents its own set of hurdles. The distance is considerable, approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The I-75 corridor is notorious for its congestion, particularly around Knoxville, leading to unpredictable travel times. This uncertainty can be detrimental to those with hypertension, as it can lead to anxiety and elevated blood pressure.

Harriman, located to the west, offers a closer option, accessible primarily via State Route 61 and US Highway 27. The drive, typically 15-20 minutes, is the most accessible option for many Coalfield residents. However, the medical facilities in Harriman are smaller and may not offer the specialized services available in Oak Ridge or Knoxville. This limitation necessitates longer commutes for certain healthcare needs.

Public transportation options are limited in Coalfield. The Anderson County Transit Authority (ACTA) provides some services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, with limited accessibility to the healthcare facilities in Oak Ridge and Knoxville. Moreover, ACTA buses may not have extensive ADA features, making them unsuitable for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that can disproportionately affect those with hypertension who may also have age-related mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services prohibitively expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in a rural area like Coalfield may be limited, leading to significant wait times. This uncertainty can create additional stress for individuals with hypertension, who rely on predictable transportation to manage their condition.

Medical transportation services, like FirstMed Transport or AMR, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation, and they may require advance booking. The cost can be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources, potentially delaying or preventing necessary medical care.

The "Hypertension Score" for 37719 is, therefore, moderately high, reflecting the challenges in healthcare access. The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation. The drive times, especially to Knoxville, can be significant, and the lack of readily available alternatives creates vulnerability for those with hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Coalfield, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The absence of readily accessible healthcare could potentially affect their ability to manage their condition. The availability of personal vehicles is almost essential. The cost of transportation, whether personal or paid, should be factored into their budget.

The future of healthcare access in Coalfield could be improved by several factors. Increased public transportation options, with routes specifically designed to serve medical facilities, would be beneficial. The expansion of telemedicine services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. The development of community-based healthcare initiatives, offering basic services within the community, could also improve access.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the lived experience of Coalfield residents. It highlights the need for careful planning and resourcefulness in managing a chronic condition. For those with hypertension, the journey to healthcare is not always a simple one. It requires navigating a complex landscape of transportation options, each with its own set of challenges.

Moving to Coalfield offers a unique lifestyle, but it requires a realistic understanding of the trade-offs. The peace and quiet come with a cost, and that cost includes the added burden of healthcare access. Careful consideration of transportation needs and financial resources is essential for anyone managing hypertension in this charming but isolated community. The ability to effectively manage their condition, therefore, becomes a significant factor in their overall quality of life.