38233, Kenton, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38233, Kenton, Tennessee is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.21 percent of residents in 38233 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Psychiatric Care-Martin with a distance of 13.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kenton, TN (ZIP Code 38233)

Kenton, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of Obion County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" for this ZIP code, 38233, reflects the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching essential medical services, factoring in transportation options and the specific needs of those with hypertension. This write-up delves into the realities of getting to healthcare in Kenton, providing a detailed assessment of the transportation landscape.

For residents of Kenton, the primary mode of transportation is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town is relatively small, but distances to specialized medical care can be significant. The nearest hospitals with comprehensive cardiac care, crucial for hypertension management, are located in Union City (approximately 15 miles away) and Dyersburg (about 25 miles).

The most direct route to Union City from Kenton involves taking **Highway 45E** north. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to critical care. The journey to Dyersburg necessitates a drive south on **Highway 45E**, then connecting to **Highway 79**. This route, while longer, offers a slightly less congested experience. Both routes are predominantly rural, with limited options for alternative transportation.

Public transportation options are severely limited in Kenton and the surrounding area. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or connecting it directly to Union City or Dyersburg. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive due to health conditions, or are unable to afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership. This is especially problematic for those managing hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) plays a vital role in transportation, yet it is difficult to implement with the current lack of public transit. Individuals with mobility limitations, who may be particularly vulnerable to complications from hypertension, face considerable obstacles in accessing healthcare. The absence of accessible transportation options exacerbates the challenges faced by this population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the rural areas surrounding Kenton. While the availability of these services might be slightly higher in Union City and Dyersburg, the wait times and potential costs can be prohibitive, especially for regular medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially in emergency situations, is also a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. However, the availability of such services in Kenton and the surrounding area is limited. The primary medical transportation providers in the region include local ambulance services, which are primarily for emergencies. These services are not always suitable for routine check-ups or medication pick-ups.

Considering the challenges, the Hypertension Score for Kenton, TN, reflects a moderate level of difficulty in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the scarcity of medical transportation options all contribute to this score. The score emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access for residents managing hypertension.

The decision to move to Kenton, or any rural area, should be made with careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension should proactively assess their ability to manage their condition in the absence of readily available transportation options. This includes evaluating their access to a reliable vehicle, the financial capacity to cover transportation costs, and the potential need for assistance from family members or friends.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a complete solution. It cannot replace the need for physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and emergency care.

The community of Kenton could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access. This includes exploring the feasibility of establishing a local public transit system, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments, and promoting the availability of medical transportation services.

Furthermore, the development of community-based programs to support individuals with hypertension could improve health outcomes. This includes offering educational resources, providing medication assistance, and facilitating access to support groups. These programs can empower residents to better manage their condition and navigate the challenges of accessing healthcare.

The future of healthcare access in Kenton depends on the collaborative efforts of healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents. By working together, they can create a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The success of these efforts will ultimately determine the future of the Hypertension Score for Kenton.