37022, Bethpage, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37022, Bethpage, Tennessee is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.95 percent of residents in 37022 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Trousdale Medical Center with a distance of 7.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37022 (Bethpage, TN)

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for the residents of ZIP Code 37022, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services via various transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options, all crucial elements influencing healthcare access. This information will be invaluable for individuals and families considering moving to Bethpage, Tennessee, and prioritizing their health.

The Overall Health Score is presented as a composite, recognizing that accessibility is multifaceted. It considers the ease of reaching primary care physicians, specialists, emergency services, and pharmacies, all vital components of a healthy lifestyle. The assessment acknowledges the unique transportation challenges presented by a rural or suburban environment.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Bethpage is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Drive times, therefore, significantly impact the Overall Health Score. Residents rely heavily on highways and roads to access medical facilities.

Traveling to healthcare facilities requires navigation on major roadways. Nashville, a major healthcare hub, lies approximately 35 miles south of Bethpage. This journey primarily involves Interstate 65 (I-65). Depending on traffic, the drive to major hospitals like Vanderbilt University Medical Center or TriStar Centennial Medical Center can take between 45 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes.

Closer to home, residents might seek care in Gallatin, approximately 15 miles away. This trip utilizes State Route 31E (Nashville Pike), a two-lane road, and can take around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination.

Smaller towns like Portland, about 10 miles north, offer some medical services. Reaching Portland often involves State Route 52, a route that can take 15 to 20 minutes. These shorter trips are crucial for routine appointments and pharmacy visits, contributing positively to the Overall Health Score.

The drive times are a critical factor influencing the Overall Health Score. Longer commutes to specialized care can deter individuals from seeking necessary treatment, negatively impacting health outcomes. The reliance on personal vehicles also presents challenges for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Bethpage are limited, impacting the Overall Health Score negatively. The availability of public transportation, particularly for those who cannot drive, is essential for healthcare access.

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) of Middle Tennessee provides some bus services in the greater Nashville area. However, these services do not directly serve Bethpage. Residents would need to travel to a central location to access RTA routes, adding significant time and complexity to their journey.

The lack of direct public transit options presents a considerable challenge for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a personal vehicle. This limitation significantly lowers the Overall Health Score for this segment of the population. The absence of accessible public transportation, including those with ADA features, exacerbates the issue.

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

Ride-share services and medical transport providers offer alternative transportation options, partially mitigating the transportation limitations. These services contribute to the Overall Health Score, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle.

Uber and Lyft are available in the Bethpage area, providing a potential solution for transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Ride-share costs can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for healthcare-related travel, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers operate in the area, offering transportation for non-emergency medical needs.

The availability of ride-share and medical transport options improves the Overall Health Score, but their effectiveness is dependent on factors such as cost, availability, and the specific needs of the individual.

**Pharmacy Access: A Critical Component**

Access to pharmacies is a vital element of healthcare access. The proximity of pharmacies and the ease of obtaining medications directly influence the Overall Health Score.

Bethpage itself has limited pharmacy options. Residents typically rely on pharmacies in nearby towns such as Gallatin or Portland. This necessitates a drive of 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the location.

Major pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens have locations in Gallatin, offering a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medications. These pharmacies also provide services such as flu shots and other vaccinations, contributing to preventative healthcare.

The availability of pharmacies and the drive times to access them are essential factors in the Overall Health Score. Easy access to medications and other healthcare products is crucial for maintaining health and well-being.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The Overall Health Score for residents of ZIP Code 37022, Bethpage, Tennessee, is moderately impacted by transportation factors. While drive times to nearby towns and Nashville are manageable for those with personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit options presents a significant challenge. Ride-share and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, but their availability and cost can be limiting. Pharmacy access, while requiring travel, is generally available within a reasonable distance.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the Overall Health Score for Bethpage residents, several measures could be considered. Enhancing public transportation options, including routes with ADA features, would significantly benefit those without access to personal vehicles. Exploring partnerships with ride-share companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve access. Furthermore, increasing the availability of local healthcare services, including primary care physicians and pharmacies, would reduce drive times and enhance overall healthcare access.

**Conclusion**

The Overall Health Score for Bethpage, TN (37022) reflects a healthcare landscape where transportation plays a pivotal role. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. For those considering moving to Bethpage, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being. Addressing the transportation limitations through strategic investments in public transit, ride-share partnerships, and local healthcare services will be essential for improving the Overall Health Score and ensuring that all residents can access the healthcare they need.