37737, Friendsville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37737, Friendsville, Tennessee is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.70 percent of residents in 37737 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fort Loudoun Medical Center with a distance of 9.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Friendsville, TN (ZIP Code 37737)

Considering a move to the charming community of Friendsville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37737)? This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the ease of navigating transportation options to medical facilities is paramount for maintaining consistent care and managing this chronic condition. This analysis will explore the available transportation infrastructure, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for your prospective relocation.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Friendsville is the availability of timely and reliable transportation. For residents managing hypertension, prompt access to medical appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency care is non-negotiable. The ability to reach healthcare providers efficiently can significantly impact health outcomes and overall quality of life.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Friendsville, nestled in Blount County, benefits from its proximity to Knoxville and the surrounding areas. The primary thoroughfare serving the area is **U.S. Highway 129**, also known as the "Foothills Parkway," which offers scenic views and relatively direct access to Knoxville. Driving to medical facilities in Knoxville from Friendsville typically involves navigating this highway.

Depending on the specific location within Friendsville and the destination clinic, drive times can vary. For example, a trip to the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) in Knoxville, a major healthcare provider, could take approximately 25-40 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This time frame is dependent on the traffic flow on U.S. 129 and the specific route taken within Knoxville.

Smaller clinics and physician offices in nearby towns like Maryville, accessible via **State Route 33**, may offer shorter drive times, potentially within 15-20 minutes. However, these facilities might have limited specialized services compared to larger hospitals.

The secondary roads, such as **Old Knoxville Highway** and **Topside Road**, offer alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and potential for increased congestion during peak hours. These roads can be useful for avoiding traffic on the main highways, but they may add to the overall travel time.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the Friendsville area are limited. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system primarily serves Knoxville and its immediate surroundings. Currently, there are no direct KAT bus routes that extend into Friendsville. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot or choose not to drive.

Individuals relying on public transportation would likely need to utilize ride-sharing services or taxis to reach the nearest KAT bus stops, adding both time and cost to their healthcare journeys. This constraint presents a considerable challenge for those managing hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments.

Furthermore, the absence of robust public transit necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. The lack of accessible and affordable public transit can create barriers to healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the costs of private transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Friendsville area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. For individuals managing hypertension, the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing are crucial factors to consider.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), also provide transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, NEMT services often require advance booking and may have eligibility requirements based on insurance coverage.

The availability of these alternative transportation options can mitigate some of the challenges posed by the lack of public transit. However, the cost and availability of these services should be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and ride-sharing services provide accessible vehicles and services. However, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles within ride-sharing services can vary.

When considering a move to Friendsville, individuals with disabilities should carefully evaluate the availability of accessible transportation options and the ease of accessing medical facilities. This includes assessing the accessibility of clinic entrances, examination rooms, and other facilities.

**Hypertension Score: Assessing the Landscape**

The "Hypertension Score" for Friendsville (37737) is a composite measure reflecting the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare for individuals managing hypertension. This score is influenced by several factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

Given the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services, the "Hypertension Score" for Friendsville, while not poor, presents some challenges. The drive times to major healthcare facilities in Knoxville are reasonable, but the absence of readily available public transit can create barriers for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers a degree of flexibility, but their cost and reliability should be carefully considered. The accessibility of these services for individuals with disabilities is also a crucial factor.

**Moving to Friendsville: Informed Decision-Making**

For individuals considering moving to Friendsville and managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. While the area offers a pleasant lifestyle and proximity to Knoxville, the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning for healthcare access.

Before making a move, prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, including their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their budget for ride-sharing or medical transport services. Contacting local healthcare providers and inquiring about their accessibility and transportation assistance programs is also advisable.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their relocation and ensure they have adequate access to the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension effectively. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the healthcare access landscape and making informed decisions about moving to Friendsville.