38028, Eads, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38028, Eads, Tennessee is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.11 percent of residents in 38028 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Francis Bartlett Medical Center with a distance of 8.83 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Eads, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38028)

The quiet charm of Eads, Tennessee, nestled in Shelby County, offers a respite from the frenetic pace of city life. Its sprawling landscapes and close-knit community beckon those seeking a slower rhythm. However, for residents managing hypertension, the realities of healthcare access, particularly transportation, become paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment for ZIP code 38028, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical appointments, focusing on transportation options. This is a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to Eads.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal medical metric but a qualitative evaluation of the transportation landscape's impact on managing hypertension. Factors considered include drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents in accessing healthcare, especially those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles. This assessment offers insight into the practicalities of living with a chronic condition in this specific geographic area.

For those living with hypertension, consistent medical care is not a luxury but a necessity. Regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments are vital for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. The ability to reach healthcare providers without undue stress or delays directly impacts health outcomes. Transportation becomes a critical link in this chain of care, and the ease of this access significantly influences the overall well-being of residents.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Eads. The major thoroughfare is **Highway 64 (Poplar Avenue)**, which serves as the main artery connecting Eads to Memphis and surrounding areas. Drive times to medical facilities vary depending on location. Reaching the **Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville** located off **Byhalia Road** generally takes approximately 15-20 minutes in light traffic. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend this time, potentially adding stress for individuals with hypertension.

Further afield, access to specialized care in Memphis requires navigating a more complex network of roads. Traveling to the **University of Tennessee Health Science Center** in downtown Memphis, often necessary for specialized cardiology or nephrology services, can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, even without significant traffic delays. This journey involves navigating **Highway 64**, **Highway 385 (Bill Morris Parkway)**, and potentially **Interstate 240**, all of which are prone to congestion.

Public transportation options in Eads are limited. The **Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA)** provides bus service, but its routes in this area are infrequent and cover a limited geographic area. Route 42, for example, might offer some service along **Highway 64**, but its frequency and coverage are not conducive to timely medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, needs to be verified for each route and time of day. Relying solely on public transit for healthcare access in Eads presents significant challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability and cost can vary. In Eads, ride-share services are generally available, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make them expensive. For individuals on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources, the cost of ride-sharing can become a barrier to accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs who cannot drive or use public transit. Companies like **MedTrans Corporation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. However, they provide a valuable service for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance getting in and out of vehicles.

The "Hypertension Score" for Eads, Tennessee, is moderate. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles creates challenges for those without them. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services add further complexity.

For individuals considering moving to Eads with hypertension, careful planning is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable transportation, and the ability to afford transportation options should be key considerations. Exploring the availability of telehealth services, which can reduce the need for in-person appointments, is also advisable.

The overall assessment highlights the importance of proactive planning and the potential challenges of healthcare access in a suburban or rural setting. While Eads offers a desirable lifestyle, residents with hypertension must carefully consider their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. This understanding is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being while enjoying the benefits of living in this community.

The "Hypertension Score" emphasizes the need for individual assessment and careful consideration of transportation options. It underscores the importance of understanding the practical realities of healthcare access in a specific geographic area. For those considering moving to Eads, a thorough evaluation of these factors is crucial for ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life.