37307, Benton, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37307, Benton, Tennessee is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.51 percent of residents in 37307 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 13.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37307

Welcome to the assessment of healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 37307, a region encompassing Benton, Tennessee. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, to gauge the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" reflecting the efficiency and challenges of navigating the local healthcare landscape. This information is especially pertinent for those considering moving to Benton, offering a crucial insight into the practical realities of accessing care.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 37307 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The region's layout and infrastructure heavily favor car travel, making it the dominant mode of transportation for most residents. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore a critical metric. The primary routes used are Highway 411, Highway 60, and local roads.

For example, a trip from the center of Benton to the closest urgent care facility, located in Etowah, Tennessee, along Highway 411, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching larger hospitals in Cleveland, Tennessee, often necessitates a drive along Highway 60, with travel times varying between 30-45 minutes. These times are crucial when considering the urgency of healthcare needs.

The absence of robust public transportation poses a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. While the region does offer some limited public transit options, these are often insufficient to meet the needs of the community, particularly for those with mobility issues or living in more remote areas.

The availability of public transit in 37307 is limited, with no dedicated bus routes directly serving the area. Residents rely on the broader regional transit system, which may involve transfers and extended travel times. The absence of direct routes significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those who cannot afford or are unable to drive.

Furthermore, the public transit system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration. While the system strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency of routes and the lack of convenient stops near healthcare facilities can create significant barriers for individuals with disabilities. The integration of ADA features, such as wheelchair accessibility and audio-visual announcements, is vital for ensuring equitable healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in 37307 can be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or in times of high demand can significantly increase costs. This can make ride-sharing an unreliable or unaffordable option for routine healthcare appointments or emergencies.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in 37307, catering to individuals with specific medical needs. These services are crucial for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who cannot safely travel by other means. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and it's essential to understand the specific coverage offered by insurance plans.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP Code itself is limited. Residents often need to travel to neighboring towns and cities for specialized care. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The distance to specialized medical centers can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience, adding time and stress to an already challenging situation.

When evaluating the overall health score, it's crucial to consider the demographics of 37307. The population's age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic health conditions influence healthcare needs. For example, an aging population may require more frequent medical appointments and specialized care, increasing the importance of accessible transportation options.

The economic factors also play a crucial role. The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can significantly impact an individual's ability to access healthcare. Low-income residents may face additional challenges, making healthcare access a more complex issue.

Furthermore, the availability of preventative care and the promotion of healthy lifestyles are essential aspects of overall health. Accessible transportation is critical for attending routine check-ups, screenings, and health education programs. These services play a crucial role in preventing illness and promoting well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" for 37307, considering the transportation challenges and healthcare access, is moderate. While personal vehicle travel is the most convenient option, the limited public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the need to travel to neighboring cities for specialized care pose significant challenges.

The score reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. This includes exploring options for expanding public transit, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer affordable transportation solutions, and promoting community-based healthcare initiatives.

For individuals considering moving to Benton, 37307, it is essential to thoroughly assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Understanding the limitations of the existing transportation infrastructure is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

In conclusion, while the region offers some healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges for residents. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and healthcare services is essential to improving the overall health score and ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of 37307. The overall health score reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access.