38501, Cookeville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38501, Cookeville, Tennessee is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.10 percent of residents in 38501 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cookeville Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.27 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38501**

Zip code 38501, encompassing the heart of Cookeville, Tennessee, presents a multifaceted landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. Understanding the ease of access to medical facilities is crucial for effective disease management, and this write-up explores the transportation options available, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on commute times and accessibility. This analysis is especially relevant for individuals considering moving to Cookeville, aiming to prioritize healthcare access in their decision-making process.

The core of our assessment lies in understanding the potential challenges and opportunities presented by various transportation methods. A resident's ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is paramount for managing hypertension. This score will consider the drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare access landscape within this specific zip code.

**Driving Times: The Road to Care**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. The primary artery for travel within and around Cookeville is Interstate 40 (I-40), a major east-west thoroughfare. Accessing healthcare facilities from 38501 often involves navigating this interstate or utilizing local roads.

The drive time to Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC), the primary hospital, is a critical factor. From the center of 38501, a drive to CRMC, located at 1 Medical Center Blvd, typically takes between five to ten minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This short commute time offers a significant advantage for individuals requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing acute hypertensive events. Utilizing South Jefferson Avenue, West Broad Street, and Willow Avenue are key local roads.

Other healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and specialists, are dispersed throughout the city. Drive times to these facilities vary, but most are accessible within a 15-minute drive. This generally favorable situation contributes positively to the Hypertension Score. However, peak traffic times, particularly during weekday rush hours, can extend these commute times, potentially impacting the timely arrival for appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Cookeville are limited but exist. The Cookeville Transit System (CTS) operates a fixed-route bus service. The routes and schedules are vital for residents without personal vehicles or those seeking alternatives.

The CTS offers several routes, including Route 1, Route 2, Route 3, and Route 4, which intersect at the Cookeville Depot, a central hub for transfers. While the CTS provides access to various parts of the city, the frequency of service and route coverage can be a limitation. The CTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of public transit to healthcare facilities is a key factor in the Hypertension Score. While the CTS routes may not directly serve every medical office, they often connect to areas within walking distance. The convenience of public transit can vary depending on the location of the healthcare provider and the resident's starting point.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing residents to request rides directly from their location to their healthcare appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Cookeville is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can impact affordability. Ride-sharing services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot drive or who prefer not to drive.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical requirements. Several medical transport companies operate in the Cookeville area, offering a crucial service for individuals who require assistance getting to and from healthcare appointments.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for 38501 is a composite of the factors discussed above.

* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive times to CRMC and other healthcare providers contribute positively to the score.
* **Public Transit:** The CTS provides a limited but viable option, especially for those without personal vehicles. The accessibility of the CTS, including ADA features, is a plus.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options enhances healthcare access.

Considering these factors, the Hypertension Score for 38501 is moderately favorable. The short drive times and the presence of ride-sharing services are significant advantages. The limitations in public transit frequency and route coverage, however, reduce the overall score.

**Moving to Cookeville: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Cookeville, the Hypertension Score provides valuable insights into healthcare access. Those prioritizing healthcare access should consider the proximity of their chosen residence to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact of traffic conditions.

The 38501 zip code offers a generally accessible environment for managing hypertension. However, individuals should carefully assess their specific transportation needs and preferences when selecting a location within the zip code.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for 38501 reflects a landscape where healthcare access is generally manageable, especially with the presence of CRMC. However, the limited public transit options highlight the importance of individual planning and consideration of alternative transportation methods. This assessment provides a valuable framework for residents and prospective residents alike, empowering them to make informed decisions about healthcare access in Cookeville.