37322, Decatur, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37322, Decatur, Tennessee is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.54 percent of residents in 37322 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rhea Medical Center with a distance of 10.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37322 (Decatur, TN)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when evaluating a community's overall health. For those considering moving to Decatur, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37322), this analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease of transportation to medical facilities. We will explore the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural setting.

Decatur, nestled in Meigs County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural nature necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. However, the area also benefits from its proximity to larger cities like Athens and Cleveland, which offer a broader range of medical services. This analysis will weigh these factors to determine a realistic "Overall Health Score."

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary method of transportation for accessing healthcare in Decatur is by personal vehicle. Driving times are heavily influenced by the road infrastructure. Residents primarily utilize **Highway 58** and **Highway 30** for travel within the county and to neighboring areas. The condition of these highways, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially impacting travel times, especially during winter months.

The closest primary care facilities are located within Decatur itself, offering relatively short drive times for local residents. However, specialized medical services often require travel to larger cities. Drive times to Athens, approximately 20 miles away, via Highway 30, can range from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. Cleveland, about 30 miles away, accessed primarily via Highway 58 and eventually **Interstate 75**, typically takes between 40 minutes to an hour.

These drive times are crucial considerations for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The availability of reliable transportation, therefore, directly impacts the overall health score for this community.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Decatur and Meigs County are extremely limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

There is no established public bus route within Decatur or the immediate surrounding area. The availability of public transit to neighboring cities, such as Athens or Cleveland, is also nonexistent. This lack of public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for a segment of the population, thus negatively impacting the "Overall Health Score."

**ADA Accessibility:**

The absence of public transportation also means there are no dedicated ADA-accessible routes or features to facilitate transportation for individuals with disabilities. This lack of accessibility further exacerbates the challenges faced by those requiring healthcare services and contributes to a lower "Overall Health Score."

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the broader region, but their presence in Decatur itself is sporadic. Availability depends on driver density and demand, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could prove unreliable and expensive.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **MedTrans Corporation** and **First Transit** may operate in the area, providing transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. However, the availability of these services and their associated costs can vary. The reliance on these services, while beneficial, often adds to the overall cost of healthcare and can be subject to scheduling constraints.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Decatur, TN (37322) is influenced by several factors. The primary mode of transportation is by personal vehicle, which presents challenges for those without one. The limited public transit options, including the absence of ADA-accessible routes, further restricts access. While ride-sharing services offer a potential alternative, their reliability is uncertain. Medical transport services are available, but their cost and scheduling limitations must be considered.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Decatur itself provides a baseline level of access. However, the need to travel to Athens or Cleveland for specialized care increases drive times and the potential for transportation-related barriers. This creates a mixed picture, with localized access but limited options for those needing specialized care.

**Moving to Decatur and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Decatur, understanding these transportation challenges is critical. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, consider the availability of personal vehicles or alternative transportation options, and factor in the potential costs and logistical complexities associated with accessing healthcare services.

Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the drive times to various medical facilities and the reliability of available transportation options. The absence of robust public transit and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Decatur, TN (37322) is moderate. While local healthcare facilities provide a degree of accessibility, the limitations of public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the need for travel to larger cities for specialized care present significant challenges. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when evaluating the community's suitability for their healthcare needs. The ability to secure reliable transportation is paramount in ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by focusing on initiatives that promote transportation; healthcare access; and the needs of the community.