37762, Jellico, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37762, Jellico, Tennessee is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.60 percent of residents in 37762 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lafollette Medical Center with a distance of 13.13 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jellico, TN (ZIP Code 37762)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a new community like Jellico, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37762), involves a multifaceted assessment. This analysis focuses on a critical aspect of community well-being: **healthcare access**, specifically concerning individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the ease of **transportation** to medical appointments is paramount for maintaining health and quality of life. This 'Hypertension Score' for Jellico will examine the available options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Jellico**.

Jellico, nestled in the Cumberland Mountains, presents a unique landscape that influences **transportation** options. While the area offers a sense of tranquility, its relative remoteness impacts access to specialized medical care. This assessment considers the practical realities of navigating the region, emphasizing the importance of planning and awareness for individuals managing hypertension.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary artery for traversing Jellico and connecting it to surrounding areas is Interstate 75 (I-75). This major highway provides direct access to Knoxville, approximately 60 miles south, and Lexington, Kentucky, roughly 140 miles north. The speed and efficiency of I-75 are crucial for accessing specialized medical facilities. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or due to accidents, can significantly impact drive times.

Within Jellico, the primary local roads are US-25W and TN-63. US-25W, also known as North Main Street and South Main Street, serves as the town's central thoroughfare. TN-63, or the Jellico Highway, connects Jellico to nearby communities and provides access to regional hospitals. Driving on these roads often involves navigating winding mountain passes, requiring careful attention and potentially increasing travel times, especially during inclement weather.

For individuals with hypertension, the time spent in transit is a significant factor. The stress of a long commute, coupled with potential traffic delays, can negatively impact blood pressure. Therefore, understanding the realistic drive times to various healthcare providers is essential. A typical drive to a primary care physician within Jellico might take 5-10 minutes, depending on location. However, a visit to a cardiologist in Knoxville could easily extend to an hour or more, excluding potential traffic delays.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Jellico are limited. The primary provider is the Campbell County Public Transit System, which offers demand-response services. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, typically by calling to arrange pick-up and drop-off. This system is crucial for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

The Campbell County Public Transit System operates with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. This is a critical consideration for many managing hypertension, as some may experience physical limitations. However, the limited service area and the need for advance scheduling can pose challenges, especially for urgent medical needs.

The availability of public transit to Knoxville, where many specialized medical services are located, is also a key factor. While the Campbell County Public Transit System may offer connections to other regional transit systems, the travel time and the number of transfers involved can be significant. This makes public transit less practical for routine appointments or emergencies.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Knoxville area but their presence in Jellico is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand, which can be unpredictable. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and scheduling, as wait times can vary.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, they provide peace of mind and ensure timely arrival at appointments.

Several medical transport providers serve the Jellico area. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. Researching and establishing a relationship with a reliable medical transport provider is crucial for individuals managing hypertension, particularly if they have limited mobility or rely on assistance.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score":**

The "Hypertension Score" for Jellico (ZIP Code 37762) reflects the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension. This score considers the following factors: drive times to healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options.

The score is not a single number but a composite assessment. The remoteness of Jellico, the reliance on I-75 and local roads, and the limited public transit options contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transport services and the ADA compliance of public transit vehicles partially mitigate these challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Jellico**, this analysis underscores the importance of proactive planning. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, understanding the limitations of public transit, and identifying reliable **transportation** options are essential steps.

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a guide, not a definitive judgment. The suitability of Jellico for an individual with hypertension depends on their specific needs, health status, and ability to adapt to the available resources. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being.

This assessment emphasizes the need for careful consideration of **transportation** options when planning **healthcare access** in Jellico. The goal is to promote informed decision-making for those **moving to Jellico** and managing hypertension, ensuring they can effectively navigate the healthcare system and maintain their health.