38220, Atwood, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38220, Atwood, Tennessee is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.19 percent of residents in 38220 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Tennessee Healthcare Milan Hospital with a distance of 6.96 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Atwood, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38220)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This is especially true for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, a silent threat requiring consistent monitoring and treatment. This write-up delves into the complex relationship between transportation and healthcare access for residents of Atwood, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38220), providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on the practical realities of getting to medical appointments. It considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their implications for individuals managing hypertension. For those considering moving to Atwood, this analysis offers crucial insights into the feasibility of maintaining consistent healthcare.

Atwood, a rural community nestled in Carroll County, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The town's relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The primary arteries for travel are **Highway 79** and **Highway 104**. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying appointments and adding stress for individuals managing hypertension. The distance to healthcare facilities is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score.

The nearest major healthcare providers are located in Huntingdon and McKenzie, Tennessee. Driving to Huntingdon, the county seat, typically involves a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This drive utilizes Highway 79. McKenzie, a slightly closer option, is accessible via Highway 104, with a drive time of approximately 15-25 minutes. These drive times, while manageable, can be a barrier for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing health emergencies. The time spent traveling directly impacts the ability to receive timely care.

Public transportation options in Atwood are limited. Carroll County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are geared towards serving the broader county rather than providing frequent, direct service to healthcare facilities. Information regarding specific routes and ADA accessibility features is difficult to find, making it challenging for those with mobility limitations. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which can be sporadic in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. Medical transport services are available. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and can be costly.

The Hypertension Score for Atwood, Tennessee, is impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, presents challenges for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive. The absence of a robust public transit system and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges. The distance to healthcare facilities, while not excessive, adds to the overall burden of accessing care.

For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to healthcare is paramount. This includes regular check-ups, medication refills, and the ability to seek immediate medical attention when necessary. The transportation challenges in Atwood can potentially lead to missed appointments, delays in treatment, and increased stress, all of which can negatively impact blood pressure control. The potential for such issues directly affects the Hypertension Score.

The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor, but the lack of alternative transportation options significantly lowers the overall score. The cost and reliability of ride-sharing services are also considerations. Medical transport services, while available, may not be accessible to all due to cost or logistical constraints. The overall picture highlights the need for improved transportation options to enhance healthcare access for Atwood residents.

The impact on individuals considering moving to Atwood is significant. While the town offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation must be carefully considered, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions. The ability to consistently access healthcare is a critical factor in maintaining health and well-being. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare resources before making a decision.

The Hypertension Score is further influenced by the availability of local pharmacies. Access to medication refills is essential for managing hypertension. The proximity of pharmacies and their operating hours play a crucial role in ensuring patients can obtain their medications promptly. The ability to manage hypertension effectively is directly related to the ability to receive medications.

The community's overall health infrastructure is also a factor. The presence of urgent care facilities or walk-in clinics can provide immediate medical attention for acute health issues, reducing the need for longer travel to emergency rooms. The availability of these services can positively influence the Hypertension Score by providing an alternative option for healthcare access.

The overall assessment of healthcare access in Atwood, Tennessee, reveals a complex picture. While the town offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the limitations in transportation present significant challenges for residents managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower Hypertension Score. For those considering moving to Atwood, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare resources is essential. The ability to consistently access healthcare is a critical factor in maintaining health and well-being, and this must be carefully considered before making a move.