38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.00 percent of residents in 38552 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.22 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chestnut Mound (ZIP Code 38552)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, often hinges on seamless access to healthcare. This write-up, specifically tailored for ZIP Code 38552 (Chestnut Mound, Tennessee), explores the multifaceted landscape of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their impact on the Hypertension Score. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to this rural community.

Chestnut Mound, nestled in the heart of Smith County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The Hypertension Score, a measure of an individual's ability to receive timely and effective care for hypertension, is heavily influenced by the availability and efficiency of transportation. This is especially critical in a rural setting where distances to healthcare facilities can be significant.

The primary mode of transportation in this area is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare providers in the surrounding towns of Carthage, Cookeville, and Lebanon are crucial components of the Hypertension Score. From Chestnut Mound, accessing Carthage, the Smith County seat, typically involves a drive via **Highway 70** East. The drive, generally less than 20 minutes, provides access to the Smith County Health Department and a few primary care physicians.

Venturing further, Cookeville, a regional hub with more specialized medical services, is accessible via **Highway 70** West and **Interstate 40**. This journey can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Cookeville Regional Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, critical for hypertension management. The longer drive time, however, could negatively impact the Hypertension Score, particularly in emergencies.

For those seeking specialized care in Lebanon, the route involves **Highway 70** West to **Highway 109** South. This drive, spanning roughly an hour and fifteen minutes, provides access to University Medical Center, a larger facility with various specialists. This longer drive time, while offering more options, could further impact the Hypertension Score, emphasizing the importance of proactive healthcare management.

Public transportation options in Chestnut Mound are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system, a common challenge in rural areas, significantly impacts the Hypertension Score for those without personal vehicles. While specific bus routes are not readily available, residents may have to rely on informal transportation networks or family and friends for healthcare appointments. This reliance can introduce delays and uncertainties, potentially hindering timely medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the region, though their availability can be sporadic, particularly in rural areas. The reliance on these services for healthcare access requires careful planning and potential delays. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances, can also pose a financial burden, indirectly impacting the Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. These services, provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local ambulance services, can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services vary, and their utilization can be a significant factor in the Hypertension Score.

For individuals considering moving to Chestnut Mound, understanding the limitations of transportation is paramount. The Hypertension Score is not solely determined by the availability of medical services, but also by the ease with which those services can be accessed. The absence of readily available public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing necessitate careful planning and consideration of personal vehicle ownership.

Proactive healthcare management becomes even more critical in this context. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and the ability to quickly access medical care in case of emergencies are all crucial components of maintaining a favorable Hypertension Score. Individuals with hypertension should establish a relationship with a primary care physician in advance, ensuring they have a clear plan for accessing care.

The availability of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, can partially mitigate the challenges of limited transportation. However, telehealth is not a complete substitute for in-person visits, especially for diagnostic tests and specialized care.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for residents of Chestnut Mound is significantly influenced by the transportation landscape. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities in nearby towns, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges. Individuals managing hypertension in this community must proactively manage their health, plan for transportation needs, and consider the potential impact of distance on their ability to receive timely and effective care. Moving to Chestnut Mound necessitates a careful evaluation of these factors to ensure the best possible health outcomes.