38002, Arlington, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38002, Arlington, Tennessee is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.70 percent of residents in 38002 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Francis Bartlett Medical Center with a distance of 4.90 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Arlington, TN (ZIP Code 38002)

Arlington, Tennessee, a town steadily growing, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. Understanding the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, especially for individuals managing conditions like hypertension, is crucial. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 38002, examines the **healthcare access** challenges and opportunities, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for potential and current residents. It's vital for anyone **moving to Arlington** to consider these factors.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but a composite assessment of how easily someone with hypertension can access necessary medical care within the given ZIP code. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, aiming to paint a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility. The score will be presented as a qualitative assessment: Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Arlington**

For many residents, the primary mode of **transportation** is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfares in and around Arlington significantly impact **healthcare access**. Interstate 40 (I-40), a major east-west artery, is the most direct route to many larger medical centers in Memphis, approximately 30-45 minutes west. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend these drive times, impacting individuals with time-sensitive health needs.

Highway 70, also known as Stage Road, runs east-west through Arlington, providing access to local businesses and some medical offices. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, typically under 15 minutes. Highway 76, or Millington-Arlington Road, connects Arlington to the north, offering access to facilities in Millington. These roads, while offering convenience, can also be subject to traffic delays, particularly during school hours and rush hour.

The smaller local roads, such as Airline Road, Donelson Road, and Milton Wilson Road, provide access to residential areas and some local medical practices. While these roads offer proximity, they may not always be the quickest route to larger hospitals or specialized care facilities. The condition of these roads, including potholes and lack of sidewalks, can also impact accessibility, especially for individuals with mobility issues.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

The availability of public transit in Arlington is a significant factor in the "Hypertension Score." Unfortunately, the public transit options are limited. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides bus service to the greater Memphis area, but its routes and frequency in Arlington are sparse.

The primary route serving Arlington is Route 50, which runs along Stage Road. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses typically arriving every hour or less during peak times and even less frequently during off-peak hours and weekends. This infrequent service presents a challenge for individuals with hypertension who may need regular appointments or have sudden health concerns.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on MATA buses is a crucial consideration. All MATA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, especially when combined with long wait times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option for residents of Arlington. Availability, however, can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours and on weekends, ride-sharing services are generally more readily available.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for individuals with limited incomes. The cost of a ride to Memphis for medical appointments can quickly add up, impacting the overall **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services, such as medical transport companies and ambulance services, provide specialized **transportation** for individuals who require assistance. These services are essential for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their medical condition.

The availability of medical transport services in Arlington is generally good, with several companies serving the area. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often required.

**The "Hypertension Score" for Arlington (ZIP Code 38002)**

Considering all the factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Arlington (ZIP code 38002) is **Fair**. While the town has local medical offices and some access to larger facilities in Memphis via major highways, the limited public transit options, potential traffic congestion, and the cost of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with hypertension.

The score reflects the dependence on personal vehicles, which can be a barrier for those without one or who are unable to drive. The limited public transit and the cost of ride-sharing further exacerbate the challenges.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Improving **healthcare access** in Arlington requires a multi-pronged approach. Increased investment in public transit, including expanded routes and increased frequency, is essential. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting the development of more local medical facilities, including specialized care, would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care. Educating residents about available **transportation** options and providing assistance with navigating the healthcare system are also critical steps.

Finally, for anyone **moving to Arlington**, it is crucial to thoroughly research the location of medical facilities and the available **transportation** options to ensure they can easily access the healthcare they need. Understanding these factors will allow residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.