37743, Greeneville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37743, Greeneville, Tennessee is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.08 percent of residents in 37743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greeneville Community Hospital with a distance of 4.90 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Greeneville, TN (ZIP Code 37743)

Considering a move to Greeneville, Tennessee (ZIP code 37743)? This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. We'll explore the transportation landscape – a crucial factor influencing healthcare accessibility – and how it impacts your ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' analysis, considering the realities of commuting to healthcare within this specific geographic area.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. Delays in these areas can have severe health consequences. Therefore, the efficiency and reliability of transportation options are paramount. We will examine the available modes, their strengths, weaknesses, and how they might impact your ability to effectively manage your condition.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

Greeneville, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a driving environment shaped by its topography and infrastructure. The primary arteries for healthcare access are the major roadways that connect the town to its medical facilities. For residents in ZIP code 37743, the most direct route to Greeneville Community Hospital East (GCHE) often involves navigating **US-11E** (East Andrew Johnson Highway). This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, potentially impacting appointment arrival times.

Further travel to specialists or larger hospitals, such as those in Johnson City, necessitates navigating **I-26**. This interstate provides faster access but can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during winter months. The time to reach Johnson City may be up to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the destination within the city.

The availability of alternative routes is limited. Secondary roads, such as **State Route 107** and **State Route 34**, offer scenic alternatives but are often winding, slower, and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or in emergency situations. These roads can also be affected by inclement weather, further complicating travel. The overall driving experience is therefore a critical factor in the 'Hypertension Score.'

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Greeneville are limited. The Greeneville Transit System (GTS) operates a small network of bus routes. However, these routes are designed primarily for local travel and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities or operate on schedules that are convenient for medical appointments.

The GTS buses are generally accessible, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, including wheelchair lifts. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, is limited. This makes relying on public transportation for consistent healthcare access challenging, especially for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent check-ups and medication refills. The lack of comprehensive public transportation significantly lowers the 'Hypertension Score' for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Greeneville, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, the availability of these services can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services often provide door-to-door transport, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Companies like **MedTrans** and **CareRide** operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services often require advance booking and can have associated costs, which can impact the 'Hypertension Score' for individuals on a fixed income or with limited financial resources.

**The 'Hypertension Score' – Putting It All Together:**

The 'Hypertension Score' for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 37743 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, which can be problematic for those unable to drive. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services further contribute to the challenges.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities within Greeneville is generally good, but the reliance on highways and the potential for traffic congestion can impact appointment arrival times. The need to travel to Johnson City for specialized care adds another layer of complexity, increasing travel time and potential delays.

Considering the factors, the 'Hypertension Score' for this area would likely be moderate. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential for traffic congestion and weather-related delays pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Greeneville, careful consideration of transportation options is crucial. Prioritize living in areas with easy access to US-11E and proximity to healthcare facilities. Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Consider the potential for weather-related delays and factor in extra travel time for appointments, especially during winter months. If driving is not an option, assess the feasibility of relying on family, friends, or medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the ability to effectively manage hypertension relies on consistent access to medical care. Understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for potential challenges is essential for ensuring optimal health outcomes when moving to Greeneville. The 'Hypertension Score' provides a framework for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.