37313, Coalmont, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37313, Coalmont, Tennessee is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.40 percent of residents in 37313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 22.51 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37313 (Coalmont, TN)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. This report delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 37313, Coalmont, Tennessee, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. Our “Overall Health Score” reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by the existing infrastructure, providing crucial insights for current residents and those considering moving to Coalmont. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

Coalmont, nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, presents unique transportation challenges. The terrain, coupled with the rural nature of the area, significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The absence of readily available public transit and the limited reach of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles for individuals without access to a car. The score reflects these limitations, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access for all residents.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary arteries connecting Coalmont to healthcare providers are **Highway 108** and **Highway 56**. These roads, while scenic, can be winding and prone to delays, especially during inclement weather. The nearest hospitals, offering a full spectrum of medical services, are located in Winchester and McMinnville. The drive to **Southern Tennessee Regional Health System in Winchester** via Highway 108 and **US-64** typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Traveling to **River Park Hospital in McMinnville** involves navigating Highway 56, a route that can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. These drive times, while manageable for some, can pose significant challenges for individuals with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those requiring urgent medical attention. The distance also impacts the ability to attend routine appointments and preventative care, essential components of maintaining overall health.

**Public Transit: A Sparse Network**

Public transportation options in Coalmont are extremely limited. The area is not served by a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly disadvantages residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of reliable public transportation creates a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing programs or community-based transportation initiatives. These options could bridge the gap in healthcare access and improve the overall health score for the community.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Coalmont. Their availability depends on driver density, which is often lower in rural areas. While these services may be available, wait times can be prolonged, and fares can be higher compared to urban areas. This makes ride-sharing an unreliable and potentially expensive option for regular healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **First Medical Transportation** and **CareRide** may provide non-emergency medical transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services vary, and they may require advance booking. The reliance on these specialized services further highlights the need for a more robust and accessible transportation infrastructure.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation. However, the lack of a public transit system in Coalmont renders this aspect moot. When considering ride-sharing or medical transport, it is crucial to inquire about the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles. This ensures that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services without facing additional barriers.

**The Impact on Overall Health**

The transportation challenges in Coalmont directly impact the overall health of the community. Limited access to healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced preventative care, and poorer health outcomes. Individuals may postpone or forgo necessary medical appointments due to transportation difficulties, exacerbating existing health conditions. This situation underscores the urgent need for interventions to improve healthcare access.

**Moving to Coalmont: A Consideration**

For those considering moving to Coalmont, the transportation landscape should be a key factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. Individuals with mobility limitations, chronic health conditions, or limited financial resources should pay particular attention to the availability and affordability of transportation options.

**Recommendations and Future Directions**

Improving healthcare access in Coalmont requires a multi-faceted approach. The following recommendations could significantly improve the Overall Health Score:

* **Advocacy for Public Transit:** Explore the feasibility of establishing a local public transit system or partnering with neighboring counties to extend existing routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Collaborate with ride-sharing companies to increase driver presence and offer subsidized fares for healthcare appointments.
* **Community-Based Transportation Programs:** Support the development of volunteer-based transportation programs that provide rides to medical appointments.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Promote telehealth services to enable remote consultations and reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Infrastructure Improvements:** Advocate for improvements to Highway 108 and Highway 56 to enhance safety and reduce travel times.

By implementing these strategies, Coalmont can create a more accessible and equitable healthcare environment, ultimately improving the overall health and well-being of its residents. The commitment to addressing transportation barriers is essential for fostering a thriving and healthy community. The Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 37313 can be significantly improved through strategic investments in transportation and healthcare access.