38054, Millington, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38054, Millington, Tennessee is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 38054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Francis Bartlett Medical Center with a distance of 9.84 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38054**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital resources, especially healthcare. In Millington, Tennessee, ZIP code 38054, the challenge of navigating the transportation landscape significantly impacts residents’ ability to manage chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up assesses the transportation infrastructure and its implications for healthcare access, providing a 'Hypertension Score' based on commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options. This information is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Millington.

Millington, a town steeped in history and community spirit, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The town's relatively rural setting, while offering a sense of tranquility, complicates the journey to medical appointments. The availability of transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the efficiency of travel all contribute to the overall 'Hypertension Score' for this area. This score serves as a metric to understand the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and medication.

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of Millington are Highway 51, also known as Millington-Arlington Road, and Navy Road. These roads, though generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. Drive times to healthcare facilities in Memphis, the nearest major city with comprehensive medical services, can fluctuate significantly. A trip to Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis, for example, could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions on Highway 51 and I-240.

The journey to Methodist University Hospital or St. Francis Hospital, also in Memphis, would follow a similar pattern, relying heavily on the efficiency of Highway 51 and the often-congested I-240. The time spent in transit directly impacts the ability of individuals with hypertension to adhere to their treatment plans. Delays can lead to missed appointments, medication refills, and ultimately, a decline in health outcomes. The need for efficient and reliable transportation is paramount.

Public transportation in Millington is limited. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides bus service, but the routes serving Millington are infrequent and may not directly serve many healthcare facilities. Route 50, which runs along Highway 51, offers a connection to Memphis. However, the travel time on this route can be considerably longer than driving, often exceeding an hour to reach downtown Memphis. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges.

The limitations of public transportation significantly impact the 'Hypertension Score.' Residents reliant on public transit face extended travel times, potentially deterring them from seeking timely medical care. The lack of frequent service and direct routes to healthcare facilities adds to the burden, making it challenging for individuals to manage their hypertension effectively. The need for improved public transit options is evident.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services in Millington can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The reliance on ride-sharing adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, like those offered by medical transport companies, provide a specialized option for individuals who require assistance with mobility. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation and are often equipped to handle individuals with medical needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, limiting their accessibility for urgent medical needs. The availability and cost of these services are important considerations.

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP code 38054 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to a moderate score. Residents face challenges in accessing healthcare, particularly those without personal vehicles or with limited financial resources.

For those considering moving to Millington, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Evaluating the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with travel is essential for making an informed decision. The ability to manage hypertension effectively depends on reliable and affordable transportation.

The future of healthcare access in Millington hinges on improving transportation infrastructure. Investing in expanded public transit routes, increasing the frequency of service, and ensuring ADA accessibility are critical steps. Encouraging ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers can also enhance healthcare access. Addressing these transportation challenges is vital for improving the health and well-being of the community.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not just a number; it reflects the lived experiences of residents. It underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare access in Millington, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their transportation limitations, can receive the care they need to manage their health effectively. This includes advocating for policy changes, community initiatives, and individual efforts to improve transportation options.