38555, Crossville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38555, Crossville, Tennessee is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.00 percent of residents in 38555 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cumberland Medical Center with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Crossville, TN (ZIP Code 38555)

Considering a move to Crossville, Tennessee, in ZIP code 38555? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on hypertension management, a significant health concern. We'll explore the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to determine a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care. This score will help potential residents understand the practicalities of managing their health within this community.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the reality that effective hypertension management hinges on consistent access to medical appointments, prescription refills, and potential emergency care. Factors like distance, available transportation, and accessibility directly impact a resident's ability to adhere to their treatment plan, ultimately influencing their health outcomes.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Healthcare Access**

Crossville, nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities is often via Interstate 40 (I-40), the major east-west artery. Driving east on I-40 provides access to larger medical centers in Knoxville, approximately a 2-hour drive. Conversely, heading west on I-40 leads to Nashville, also about a 2-hour drive, offering a wider array of specialized care.

Within Crossville, the primary healthcare provider is Cumberland Medical Center, located just off of US-127. Accessing this facility from various points within the 38555 ZIP code is generally straightforward. Residents living in the city center can expect a drive time of under 10 minutes. Those residing further out, perhaps in the more rural areas surrounding the city, may face drive times of up to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location.

Navigating US-127, the main north-south thoroughfare, is crucial. Traffic flow is generally manageable, but congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly near the city center. Other key roads to consider include State Route 101, which provides access to surrounding communities, and various county roads that serve more remote areas. These roads, while offering scenic routes, can present challenges during inclement weather, potentially impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Crossville are limited. The city does not have a comprehensive public bus system. However, the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides a demand-response transportation service. This service, while available, requires advance booking and may not be suitable for immediate or emergency medical needs.

The UCHRA service does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency and the need for pre-booking can pose challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments or experiencing sudden health issues. The lack of a readily available, fixed-route public transit system significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Crossville, but their availability may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Wait times can be longer, and the cost may be higher, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This variability can create uncertainty for residents needing transportation to medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services are also available. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or stretcher transport. Companies like Senior Transportation Services and other regional providers operate in the area. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may be more expensive than ride-sharing or personal transportation.

**Hypertension Score Calculation: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score will reflect the ease of access to healthcare, factoring in the availability and reliability of various transportation options. The score will consider drive times to Cumberland Medical Center and other regional healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Factors that will negatively impact the score include: longer drive times, limited public transit options, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-booking medical transport. Conversely, a higher score will reflect shorter drive times, readily available ride-sharing, and accessible public transportation options.

**The Impact on Moving to Crossville**

For individuals with hypertension, the transportation infrastructure in Crossville is a critical consideration when contemplating a move. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential weather-related disruptions. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services require proactive strategies for managing healthcare access.

Potential residents should research the proximity of their chosen residence to Cumberland Medical Center and other healthcare providers. They should also assess their ability to drive and the availability of a reliable vehicle. Investigating the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also essential.

The Hypertension Score, derived from this analysis, will provide a valuable tool for prospective residents. It will help them understand the practical realities of accessing healthcare in Crossville, allowing them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Ultimately, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring consistent access to essential medical care and successfully managing hypertension within the 38555 ZIP code.