37873, Surgoinsville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37873, Surgoinsville, Tennessee is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.86 percent of residents in 37873 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hawkins County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.64 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Surgoinsville, TN (ZIP Code 37873)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates reliable **transportation** to **healthcare** providers. This write-up analyzes the accessibility landscape for residents of Surgoinsville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37873), focusing on factors impacting timely medical appointments and medication adherence. We'll assess the ease of reaching essential services, considering driving times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions. This information is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Surgoinsville**, allowing for informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

Surgoinsville, nestled in Hawkins County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its rural setting can complicate access to specialized medical care. The primary artery connecting Surgoinsville to larger towns is Highway 11W, a major thoroughfare that often experiences moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. Driving times to various medical facilities are therefore a critical factor in assessing **healthcare access**.

For routine check-ups and primary care, residents might seek services at the Hawkins County Memorial Hospital in Rogersville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Highway 11W. This is generally considered a manageable commute. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, may necessitate travel to Kingsport or Johnson City, significantly increasing the **transportation** burden.

Kingsport, roughly 30-45 minutes away, offers a wider array of specialists and hospitals, including Holston Valley Medical Center. The journey typically involves navigating Highway 11W and then merging onto I-26 East. The interstate can offer faster travel, but traffic congestion, particularly around exits and during rush hour, can impact drive times.

Johnson City, about an hour's drive, is home to Johnson City Medical Center, a major regional referral center. The route involves traveling on Highway 11W to I-26 East, then to I-81 South. This longer commute, coupled with potential traffic delays, presents a greater challenge for individuals with hypertension, who require timely access to medication refills and regular monitoring.

Public **transportation** options in Surgoinsville are limited. The Hawkins County Public **Transportation** Authority provides a demand-response service. While this service is available, it's crucial to understand its limitations. Riders must schedule rides in advance, and service hours are typically restricted. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a significant consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. Detailed information regarding route numbers, schedules, and ADA features should be readily available through the Hawkins County Public **Transportation** Authority.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and affordability in Surgoinsville may vary. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, offer another option. Companies like LogistiCare or Access2Care may provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often require pre-authorization and may be covered by insurance, but their availability and coverage should be carefully investigated. These services prioritize patient safety and comfort, but can be more expensive.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Surgoinsville presents a mixed bag. While proximity to primary care facilities is relatively good, accessing specialized care can be time-consuming and challenging. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public **transportation** can create barriers for individuals with hypertension, who need consistent access to medical services.

For individuals with hypertension, the **transportation** considerations are paramount. The time spent commuting to appointments can impact medication adherence and overall health outcomes. Delays due to traffic or the unavailability of **transportation** can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress.

Individuals **moving to Surgoinsville** should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs. Consider the frequency of medical appointments, the availability of specialized care, and the potential for traffic delays. Explore all available options, including personal vehicles, public **transportation**, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services.

Furthermore, individuals should establish a strong relationship with their primary care physician. This relationship can facilitate referrals to specialists, coordinate care, and provide support in navigating the **healthcare access** landscape.

The **Hypertension Score** for Surgoinsville, TN (ZIP Code 37873) is therefore influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive to primary care facilities offers a moderate advantage. However, the longer commutes to specialized care, the limited public **transportation**, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges.

The score is further impacted by the individual's health status, financial resources, and ability to drive. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle face greater hurdles in accessing care. The cost of **transportation**, including gas, maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can also be a significant burden, particularly for those on fixed incomes.

In conclusion, while Surgoinsville offers a peaceful environment, the **healthcare access** landscape requires careful consideration, especially for individuals managing hypertension. Proactive planning, including assessing **transportation** options, establishing a strong patient-physician relationship, and understanding the limitations of available services, is crucial for ensuring timely access to essential medical care. The **Hypertension Score** for this area highlights the need for careful consideration of all factors impacting a patient's ability to get to the doctor.