38017, Collierville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38017, Collierville, Tennessee is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.95 percent of residents in 38017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital with a distance of 10.76 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38017**

The quest for optimal health often begins with accessible healthcare. Understanding the ease with which residents of Collierville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38017) can reach medical facilities, particularly for managing hypertension, is crucial. This analysis, forming a "Hypertension Score," considers the multifaceted nature of transportation, a critical factor in healthcare access. It examines drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture for current and prospective residents, especially those considering moving to Collierville.

Collierville, a suburb of Memphis, enjoys a reputation for its quality of life, including its healthcare infrastructure. However, the reality of healthcare access is nuanced, significantly influenced by transportation options. This assessment will dissect these options, acknowledging that ease of access directly impacts the ability to receive timely and consistent care, vital for individuals managing hypertension.

**Driving to Healthcare Facilities:**

For many Collierville residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Several major roads and highways facilitate access to healthcare facilities. The primary artery is Houston Levee Road, which offers direct access to local clinics and medical offices. Drive times vary depending on the destination and time of day, but typically, most facilities within Collierville are reachable within 10-15 minutes.

For destinations further afield, such as hospitals in Memphis, residents rely on major thoroughfares like Poplar Avenue and Interstate 269 (I-269). Poplar Avenue provides a direct route into Memphis, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. I-269 offers a faster alternative, bypassing some of the city traffic, although it adds mileage.

The drive to major hospitals in Memphis, such as Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital or Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. The ability to navigate these roadways effectively is crucial for individuals needing regular medical appointments or experiencing acute health issues.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Collierville, while available, is limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not extensive within Collierville itself. Residents may need to rely on connecting routes to reach healthcare facilities.

MATA Route 34, which travels along Poplar Avenue, offers a potential connection point for residents seeking healthcare in Memphis. However, this route may require transferring to another bus or utilizing ride-sharing services to reach specific medical facilities. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transportation system.

The infrequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, poses a challenge for those needing healthcare access outside of standard business hours. This limitation highlights the importance of considering alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. These services are readily available in Collierville, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The cost, however, can be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized transportation providers, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit. These services are essential for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transportation. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking.

**Evaluating the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 38017 considers the combined impact of these transportation options. While Collierville offers relatively easy access to local clinics and medical offices via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges.

The score must also consider the distance and time required to reach specialized medical facilities in Memphis. For individuals with hypertension, the ability to access specialists, diagnostic testing, and emergency care is paramount. The score will reflect the overall ease and reliability of transportation to these critical resources.

**Implications for Healthcare Access:**

The availability and affordability of transportation directly impact healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension require regular medical check-ups, medication refills, and, in some cases, urgent care. The ability to reach these services promptly and reliably is critical for managing their condition effectively.

For those considering moving to Collierville, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Factors such as proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered.

**Conclusion:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 38017 reflects a mixed bag. While Collierville offers good access to local healthcare, the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services create some barriers. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to reliably and affordably reach medical facilities is paramount. A comprehensive assessment of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is crucial for ensuring optimal healthcare access for all residents. This analysis provides a foundation for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Collierville, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.