37857, Rogersville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37857, Rogersville, Tennessee is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.57 percent of residents in 37857 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hawkins County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.37 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rogersville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37857)

The pursuit of optimal health often hinges on a fundamental factor: accessible healthcare. For residents of Rogersville, Tennessee (ZIP code 37857), this accessibility, particularly for those managing hypertension, is intricately woven with the fabric of transportation. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for individuals residing in this area, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities.

Rogersville, a charming town nestled in Hawkins County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare access. The town's relative isolation, coupled with the demographics of the population, necessitates a nuanced understanding of the available options. The "Hypertension Score" will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, offering a comprehensive view for residents, especially those considering moving to Rogersville.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and around Rogersville are Interstate 81 (I-81), US Route 11W (US-11W), and Tennessee State Route 66 (TN-66). I-81 serves as the major north-south corridor, offering relatively swift access to larger cities like Knoxville to the south and Bristol to the north. US-11W, a more local route, meanders through Rogersville and provides direct access to neighboring towns and communities. TN-66, while not directly traversing Rogersville, offers another access point to the region, particularly for those traveling from the east.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the "Hypertension Score." The closest significant medical facility is Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, approximately 30 miles south of Rogersville. Driving time to Holston Valley, under ideal conditions, typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour via I-81 South. This journey, however, is susceptible to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or due to accidents. The time to reach medical appointments can be stressful, especially for individuals managing hypertension, where prompt medical attention is often crucial.

Other healthcare options within a reasonable driving distance include hospitals and clinics in Greeneville and Morristown. These facilities offer alternative choices, but they also come with their own travel times and potential traffic challenges. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect these variations, considering the impact of distance, traffic, and road conditions on the overall accessibility of healthcare.

Public transportation options within Rogersville and the surrounding area are limited. The Hawkins County Transit Authority (HCTA) provides some public transportation services, but the routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals seeking medical care. Information regarding specific routes, frequency of service, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is essential.

The HCTA may offer routes that connect Rogersville to Kingsport or other nearby towns, but these routes may involve transfers and longer travel times compared to driving. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the feasibility of using public transit for healthcare access, considering factors like route availability, frequency of service, and the potential for delays. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a crucial consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have gained popularity in many areas, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services in Rogersville may be limited. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the presence and reliability of ride-sharing options, considering factors like driver availability, wait times, and cost. The absence or unreliability of ride-sharing services can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are another vital element of the "Hypertension Score." These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. The availability of medical transportation in Rogersville, including the brands and services offered, will be assessed.

The "Hypertension Score" will consider the cost, reliability, and accessibility of these services. The availability of specialized vehicles, such as those equipped to transport individuals in wheelchairs or with other mobility aids, is also a crucial factor. The ability to pre-book and schedule these services is essential, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, or the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for individuals in rural areas with limited transportation options. The availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, will be factored into the score.

The overall "Hypertension Score" will reflect the combined impact of all these factors. A higher score indicates greater healthcare access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. The score will provide a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Rogersville, as well as for current residents seeking to understand and navigate the healthcare landscape.

The "Hypertension Score" for Rogersville, Tennessee (ZIP code 37857) will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on evolving transportation options, healthcare service availability, and technological advancements. The score will be regularly updated to reflect the latest developments, providing the most current information to residents and prospective residents.

The assessment highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the available options and their limitations is crucial for ensuring that residents of Rogersville can receive the timely and appropriate medical care they need. The "Hypertension Score" is a step towards empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and well-being, especially when considering moving to Rogersville.