37309, Calhoun, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37309, Calhoun, Tennessee is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.63 percent of residents in 37309 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 11.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37309 (Calhoun, TN)

The pursuit of well-being in Calhoun, Tennessee, (ZIP code 37309) requires a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the intricate relationship between transportation options and the availability of medical services. It paints a vivid picture for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike, illuminating the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Calhoun, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary method of transportation within 37309 is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The geography of Calhoun, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, necessitates reliance on roadways for reaching essential services. Driving times become a critical factor in the overall health score, directly impacting the speed and ease with which residents can access medical care.

For routine appointments, the drive to the nearest primary care physician in Calhoun might be manageable, typically within a 10-15 minute window, depending on traffic. However, more specialized care, such as cardiology or dermatology, often requires traveling to larger regional medical centers. These centers are generally found in Cleveland, Tennessee, approximately a 25-35 minute drive via **Highway 11** and **Highway 64**. This distance, while not extreme, can be a significant barrier during emergencies or for individuals with limited mobility.

Emergency situations introduce a different dimension to the transportation equation. The speed of access to emergency medical services (EMS) is paramount. The 911 response time, encompassing the time it takes for an ambulance to arrive, is crucial. The location of the nearest hospital, **Tennova Healthcare - Cleveland**, impacts this response time. The drive from Calhoun to Tennova, even with lights and sirens, can easily consume 20-30 minutes, potentially affecting the patient's outcome. The condition of **Highway 11** and **Highway 64** is also a factor, as any congestion or accidents can further delay arrival.

Public transportation options within 37309 are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for those without personal vehicles. There are no readily available bus routes that directly connect Calhoun to the larger medical facilities in Cleveland. This absence creates a substantial hurdle for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a car.

The lack of public transit forces these individuals to rely on alternative options, such as ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft operate in the area, but their availability and affordability are not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of a ride to Cleveland for a medical appointment can be a significant financial burden, especially for those on a fixed income. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services in emergencies is questionable.

The availability of medical transport services is another facet of the healthcare access equation. Companies like **MedTrans** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are crucial for individuals who require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of existing transportation options. The lack of accessible public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services highlight the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. The availability of accessible parking at medical facilities and the ease of navigating the facilities themselves are also factors.

The overall picture for healthcare access in 37309 reveals a mixed bag. While the proximity of Tennova Healthcare - Cleveland offers a safety net, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create significant barriers for some residents. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services add further complexity.

The "Overall Health Score" for 37309 is therefore moderately impacted by transportation challenges. The score is negatively affected by the absence of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport. However, the relatively short drive times to primary care providers and the presence of a major hospital within a reasonable distance provide some mitigation.

For individuals considering moving to Calhoun, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations must carefully consider the challenges they may face. The availability of family, friends, or community resources to provide transportation assistance can significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" for these individuals.

The future development of Calhoun's healthcare infrastructure and transportation options will directly impact the "Overall Health Score." Investing in public transit, improving road infrastructure, and expanding the availability of medical transport services would significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents. This would not only improve the quality of life for current residents but also make Calhoun a more attractive place to live for prospective residents seeking a healthy and accessible community.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can be improved through strategic planning and community investment. As Calhoun evolves, so too will its healthcare landscape. The success of this evolution will depend on the community's commitment to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.