37324, Decherd, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37324, Decherd, Tennessee is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.57 percent of residents in 37324 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 18.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37324

The overall health score for residents of Decherd, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37324) is significantly intertwined with the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis delves into the various transportation options available, meticulously examining drive times, public transit routes, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking healthcare within and around this community, particularly for individuals considering **moving to Decherd**.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Decherd is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Given the rural nature of the area, reliance on cars is almost absolute. Residents typically utilize **Interstate 24 (I-24)**, a major east-west artery, to reach healthcare facilities in nearby cities like Tullahoma and Winchester. **Highway 64** provides another crucial route, connecting Decherd to Fayetteville and other towns to the west.

Drive times to these destinations vary depending on traffic, but a general estimate for Tullahoma is around 15-20 minutes, while Winchester might take 10-15 minutes. Fayetteville, further west, could require a 30-40 minute drive. These estimates highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for longer travel times to access specialized medical care.

The availability of public transit in Decherd is limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. There is no established public bus system operating directly within the town. The nearest options would be in Tullahoma or Winchester, but their routes are not designed to serve Decherd. This lack of public **transportation** options disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the need for alternative **transportation** solutions. This includes the potential for expansion of existing services or the introduction of new initiatives, such as a demand-response system. Such a system could provide door-to-door service, particularly crucial for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Decherd area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. While they offer a convenient option for some, the cost can be prohibitive for regular healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-share drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies, is not guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. These services cater to individuals who require specialized equipment or assistance during transport. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, making them less accessible for many residents.

The availability of specialized medical transport brands in the area is limited, and the specific providers serving Decherd may vary. Researching local options is crucial for anyone requiring these services. This often involves contacting local hospitals or healthcare providers to obtain recommendations and information on available providers.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on any available public transit or ride-share services are critical for assessing **healthcare access**. For public transit, this includes accessible ramps, lifts, and designated seating. Ride-share services should offer options for accessible vehicles and drivers trained in assisting passengers with disabilities.

The overall health score for Decherd residents, therefore, reflects the limitations in **healthcare access** due to the challenges in **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transit, and the potential cost of ride-share and medical transport services create barriers for many individuals. This situation particularly impacts those with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those without access to a car.

The current landscape presents several opportunities for improvement. Investing in public transit, expanding ride-share availability, and increasing the affordability of medical transport services could significantly improve the overall health score for Decherd residents. These improvements would not only enhance **healthcare access** but also contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.

The decision to move to Decherd should include a thorough assessment of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**. Individuals considering **moving to Decherd** should carefully evaluate their ability to access healthcare facilities and consider the potential costs and challenges associated with travel.

The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. This is a critical factor to consider when assessing the overall health score and the quality of life in Decherd. The absence of a robust public **transportation** system creates a barrier to **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations.

The potential for longer travel times to access specialized medical care is another factor that impacts the overall health score. This is particularly relevant for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The longer the travel time, the greater the burden on patients and their families.

The cost of ride-share services and medical transport can also be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. These services can be expensive, making them unaffordable for many residents. This financial burden can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

The availability of local resources and support services is also crucial. This includes access to community health centers, social services, and other programs that can assist residents with **transportation** needs and healthcare costs.

The overall health score for Decherd is, therefore, a complex calculation that considers various factors. These include the availability of **transportation** options, the cost of **transportation**, the travel times to healthcare facilities, and the availability of local resources and support services.

The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles present a significant challenge for many residents. The lack of reliable public **transportation** options disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The cost of ride-share services and medical transport can also be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. These services can be expensive, making them unaffordable for many residents. This financial burden can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

The availability of local resources and support services is also crucial. This includes access to community health centers, social services, and other programs that can assist residents with **transportation** needs and healthcare costs.

The overall health score for Decherd is, therefore, a complex calculation that considers various factors. These include the availability of **transportation** options, the cost of **transportation**, the travel times to healthcare facilities, and the availability of local resources and support services.

The decision to move to Decherd should include a thorough assessment of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**. Individuals considering **moving to Decherd** should carefully evaluate their ability to access healthcare facilities and consider the potential costs and challenges associated with travel. The overall health score is directly affected by the availability and affordability of these services.