38256, Springville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38256, Springville, Tennessee is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.11 percent of residents in 38256 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Medical Center with a distance of 10.99 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38256 (Springville, Tennessee)**

Navigating healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is a critical concern. This analysis focuses on transportation options and their impact within ZIP Code 38256, Springville, Tennessee, a rural community where the journey to medical care can be a significant undertaking. Understanding the challenges and opportunities related to transportation is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to Springville or already living there, striving to maintain their health.

The “Hypertension Score” considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities, primarily those equipped to manage hypertension, factoring in transportation modalities, drive times, and the availability of public transit and alternative transportation options. This score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ease with which residents can access essential medical services.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many Springville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The drive to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the rural roads and highways surrounding the community. The nearest hospitals and clinics, equipped to manage hypertension, are located in Paris, Tennessee, approximately 10 to 15 miles away.

The primary route to Paris involves taking Highway 79. The drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination. For those residing on the eastern side of Springville, Highway 641 offers an alternative route, though it may add a few minutes to the journey. Rural roads, such as Old Paris Murray Road, provide access to these main arteries.

Further afield, the larger medical centers in Jackson, Tennessee, offer more specialized care. The drive to Jackson, approximately 60 miles, takes around an hour and 15 minutes via Highway 79 and Interstate 40. These longer distances necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Springville are extremely limited. Henry County, where Springville is located, does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The absence of a robust public transit network poses a significant challenge, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of regular routes and schedules can make it difficult to attend scheduled appointments, obtain necessary medications, and manage chronic conditions like hypertension effectively.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for urgent medical needs.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are available. These services are typically reserved for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, these services often come with a higher cost, making them less accessible for some residents.

**Healthcare Access: The Critical Element**

The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor in managing hypertension. In Springville, residents have access to local clinics and the Henry County Medical Center in Paris. These facilities offer primary care services, including blood pressure monitoring and medication management.

However, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, may require travel to Jackson or other larger cities. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The availability of telehealth services can also improve healthcare access, allowing patients to consult with providers remotely.

**ADA Accessibility: A Necessary Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation and healthcare facilities is paramount. While healthcare facilities in the area are generally compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, the limited public transit options pose a significant challenge.

The absence of accessible public transportation makes it difficult for individuals with mobility limitations to attend appointments and access healthcare services independently. This highlights the need for improved transportation options that cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

**Moving to Springville: A Transportation Perspective**

For those considering moving to Springville, the availability of transportation and healthcare access should be a key consideration. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility may face challenges accessing healthcare services.

Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of resources to meet those needs. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the distance to healthcare facilities is crucial for making an informed decision.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Springville, Tennessee, reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The score considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the accessibility of healthcare providers.

The score serves as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It highlights the need for improved transportation options, particularly for individuals with hypertension and other chronic conditions. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential for ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

**Recommendations: Improving Transportation and Healthcare Access**

To improve healthcare access in Springville, several recommendations are worth considering. Investing in a more robust public transit system, including routes that connect Springville to healthcare facilities in Paris and Jackson, would significantly benefit residents.

Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide discounted or subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of home healthcare visits could further enhance healthcare access for individuals with hypertension and other chronic conditions.

Advocating for increased funding for medical transportation services and ensuring that these services are accessible and affordable is also crucial. By implementing these recommendations, Springville can improve healthcare access and support the health and well-being of its residents.