37843, Parrottsville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37843, Parrottsville, Tennessee is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.81 percent of residents in 37843 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Healthcare - Newport Medical Center with a distance of 6.94 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Parrottsville (ZIP Code 37843)

Parrottsville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37843), a community nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, the serenity of rural living can sometimes mask challenges, particularly regarding healthcare access. This analysis assesses the "Hypertension Score" for residents, considering the transportation infrastructure and its impact on accessing vital medical care, specifically for those managing hypertension. This score is crucial for understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare providers and pharmacies, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like high blood pressure.

The primary concern is transportation. Without reliable transport, consistent medical care falters. The Hypertension Score reflects the interplay of available transportation options, travel times, and accessibility features. This score is more than a number; it's a reflection of the community's health and well-being. A high score indicates easier access, while a low score highlights potential barriers to care.

The foundation of transportation in Parrottsville is built on roadways. The primary artery is **US-321**, a vital north-south route connecting Parrottsville to surrounding towns and cities. Traveling north on US-321 provides access to Newport, the county seat, and further connections to Interstate 40. Southbound, it leads towards areas like Cocke County and beyond. **State Route 70**, another critical road, intersects US-321, offering east-west passage. These two highways are the lifelines for healthcare access.

Driving times are a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. To reach the nearest hospital, **Cumberland Medical Center in Crossville**, residents face a drive of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering roughly 75 miles. This is a considerable travel time for regular check-ups and emergency situations. Newport, approximately 15 minutes north on US-321, offers closer options for primary care physicians and pharmacies. However, the distance to specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, might still require travel to larger cities like Knoxville, which is about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive.

Public transportation options in Parrottsville are limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the immediate area. The absence of a robust public transit network significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This limitation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges faced by those with mobility issues or financial constraints.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is often unpredictable, especially in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services for urgent medical needs is also a concern. This reliance on personal vehicles or the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services directly influences the Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services are available, but their scope and availability are limited. Companies like **CareRide Medical Transportation** and **First Call Medical Transportation** may offer services for non-emergency medical transport. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and scheduling often requires advance notice. This further complicates access to healthcare, particularly for those with urgent needs or limited financial resources.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is another crucial factor. While ride-sharing services and medical transport providers are generally expected to offer accessible vehicles, their availability is not always guaranteed. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system with ADA-compliant features further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

The impact on healthcare access is significant. For individuals managing hypertension, regular check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialists are essential. The travel times and transportation limitations can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and difficulties in adhering to treatment plans. This can result in uncontrolled blood pressure, increasing the risk of serious health complications.

The Hypertension Score is also affected by the availability of pharmacies. While pharmacies are available in Newport, the drive to the nearest pharmacy from Parrottsville is still a factor. The availability of pharmacies within walking distance or easily accessible via public transit is a key element of the score. The lack of such options in Parrottsville negatively impacts the score.

The demographics of Parrottsville also play a role. The aging population, coupled with potential mobility limitations, further emphasizes the need for accessible transportation. This highlights the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.

Considering all factors, the Hypertension Score for Parrottsville (37843) is moderate. While the presence of roadways and ride-sharing services offers some access, the lack of public transit, the long distances to specialized care, and the limitations of medical transport services create significant challenges. The score reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure and increased healthcare resources within the community.

For individuals considering moving to Parrottsville, understanding the Hypertension Score is essential. It allows potential residents to assess the practicality of accessing healthcare and to plan accordingly. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Improving the Hypertension Score requires a multi-faceted approach. This could include advocating for expanded ride-sharing services, exploring the feasibility of a demand-response public transit system, or encouraging the establishment of telehealth services. Community initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, can also help bridge the transportation gap.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Parrottsville have equitable access to healthcare, regardless of their transportation limitations. By addressing the challenges highlighted by the Hypertension Score, the community can foster a healthier and more vibrant future for all. The health of the community is directly linked to its ability to access healthcare.