38545, Bloomington Springs, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38545, Bloomington Springs, Tennessee is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.67 percent of residents in 38545 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cookeville Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.12 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bloomington Springs (ZIP Code 38545)

The quest for optimal health often begins with understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by one’s environment. This analysis, focused on ZIP Code 38545 (Bloomington Springs, Tennessee), aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access healthcare, particularly concerning hypertension management. This score, while not a definitive measure, considers the critical role of **transportation** in determining **healthcare access** and is especially relevant for individuals considering **moving to Bloomington Springs**.

The primary focus of this assessment is to evaluate the practicalities of reaching healthcare providers specializing in hypertension treatment. This includes physicians, specialists, and pharmacies offering medications and support services. The score will incorporate drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of the landscape residents must navigate to receive necessary care.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Access**

The lifeblood of **transportation** in Bloomington Springs flows primarily along State Route 111 (SR-111), the major north-south artery. This highway offers relatively direct access to Cookeville, the nearest city with a more comprehensive range of medical facilities. The drive from the heart of Bloomington Springs to Cookeville Regional Medical Center, a key healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 20-25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions.

Travelers must also consider the impact of secondary roads like State Route 84 (SR-84) and various county roads that can provide alternative routes, but often add to travel time. These routes, while potentially scenic, can be narrow, winding, and subject to seasonal weather impacts, especially during winter months. The condition of these roads and the potential for delays due to construction or accidents are critical factors in the overall **healthcare access** equation.

The drive to Nashville, while offering a wider array of specialized medical services, is significantly longer, requiring approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours via I-40. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier for regular appointments and emergency situations, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Public Transit: A Limited Compass**

Public transit options in ZIP Code 38545 are extremely limited. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides a demand-response transit service, but it operates on a reservation basis and may not be readily available for immediate needs. The UCHRA service, while attempting to address **healthcare access** challenges, often requires advance booking and may have limited operational hours, making it less ideal for routine appointments or urgent medical situations.

Details regarding specific route numbers are unavailable for the UCHRA services, and information regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility should be confirmed directly with the agency. This lack of readily accessible public **transportation** presents a significant hurdle for residents who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to health conditions or other limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Cookeville area, offering a potential solution for **transportation** to and from medical appointments. However, their availability in Bloomington Springs itself can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas further from Cookeville. Residents should factor in potential wait times and the possibility of surge pricing when relying on these services.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available in the region. These services are primarily designed for individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring stretcher transport or assistance from trained medical personnel. The cost of these services can be substantial, and prior authorization may be required from insurance providers.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 38545 will be a composite measure reflecting the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The primary determinant, reflecting the time required to reach key healthcare facilities in Cookeville and Nashville.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence and reliability of public transit options, including accessibility features and operational hours.
* **Ride-Sharing Accessibility:** The consistency and affordability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance and accessibility of local pharmacies offering hypertension medications and related services.

**Implications for Healthcare Access and the Decision to Move**

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Bloomington Springs, based on this preliminary assessment, suggests moderate challenges in accessing healthcare, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The reliance on personal **transportation** necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel times. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the equation.

For individuals considering **moving to Bloomington Springs**, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is crucial. Those managing hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully assess the accessibility of their required medical services and the potential impact of travel times and **healthcare access** limitations on their overall well-being.

The score, therefore, serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and the suitability of Bloomington Springs as a place to live. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available **transportation** options, and establishing relationships with healthcare providers in the area.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

In conclusion, while Bloomington Springs offers a tranquil setting and a close-knit community, residents must be mindful of the **transportation** challenges that can impact **healthcare access**. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for careful planning, proactive engagement with healthcare providers, and a realistic assessment of **transportation** options. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of navigating healthcare in ZIP Code 38545, particularly for those seeking to manage hypertension effectively.