37345, Huntland, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37345, Huntland, Tennessee is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.90 percent of residents in 37345 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincoln Medical Center with a distance of 17.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37345 (Huntland, TN)

The overall health score for residents of Huntland, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37345), hinges significantly on **transportation** infrastructure and its impact on **healthcare access**. This assessment considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking medical care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for individuals considering **moving to Huntland**, highlighting the practical realities of accessing healthcare within and beyond the community.

Huntland, a rural community nestled in Franklin County, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The population is spread across a relatively large geographic area, making travel a necessity for most medical appointments. The absence of a local hospital necessitates travel to surrounding towns and cities for comprehensive medical services. This reliance on **transportation** is a critical factor in determining the health and well-being of Huntland residents.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare access in Huntland is the personal vehicle. Drive times to medical facilities are heavily influenced by the road network. The primary routes connecting Huntland to healthcare providers are State Route 64 (SR-64), also known as Cowan Highway, and US Highway 41A (US-41A). SR-64 provides access to Winchester and Tullahoma, while US-41A offers routes to Winchester and, further afield, to Chattanooga.

The drive to Winchester, the county seat and home to several medical clinics and a small hospital, typically takes 15-20 minutes via SR-64. This relatively short drive is a significant advantage for residents seeking routine medical care. However, the road itself can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours and school bus routes.

Tullahoma, approximately 20-30 minutes away via SR-64, offers a wider range of medical specialists and a larger hospital. The increased travel time, however, adds to the overall burden on patients, particularly those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Chattanooga, approximately a 1-hour and 30-minute drive via US-41A and Interstate 24 (I-24). This longer commute significantly impacts the overall health score, as it can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention. The extended travel time also poses challenges for those requiring frequent appointments or emergency care.

The condition of the roads is another factor. While SR-64 and US-41A are generally well-maintained, occasional potholes and road construction can disrupt travel and increase commute times. The winding nature of some sections of these roads also necessitates careful driving, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Huntland are extremely limited. Franklin County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of public transit severely restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of a reliable public transit system forces many residents to rely on friends, family, or neighbors for rides to medical appointments. This dependence can create logistical challenges and potentially delay or prevent individuals from receiving necessary care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability in Huntland are limited. Ride-share services are often less readily available in rural areas, and wait times can be significantly longer compared to urban centers. This uncertainty can make it difficult for residents to schedule and attend medical appointments on time.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available to residents of Huntland. Ambulance services are primarily used for emergency situations, while NEMT services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. NEMT providers typically require advance booking, which can be a barrier for those needing immediate care. The cost of NEMT services can also be a significant financial burden for some residents.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public **transportation** and facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of a public transit system in Huntland severely limits ADA-compliant **transportation** options. The availability of accessible ride-share vehicles and NEMT services may vary, and residents with disabilities may face challenges in accessing reliable and accessible **transportation** to medical appointments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for Moving to Huntland:**

For individuals considering **moving to Huntland**, the **transportation** landscape is a critical factor in evaluating the overall health score. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-share and medical transport services create challenges for **healthcare access**. Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when assessing the suitability of Huntland as a place to live.

Individuals with chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, or limited financial resources may face significant challenges in accessing timely and affordable medical care. The long drive times to specialized medical facilities and the potential for transportation-related delays can negatively impact health outcomes.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for residents of Huntland (ZIP Code 37345) is moderately impacted by **transportation** limitations. While the proximity to Winchester offers relatively easy access to routine medical care, the lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-share services, and the long drive times to specialized facilities in Chattanooga pose significant challenges.

The health score is further impacted by the financial burden of **transportation**, including the cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential ride-share or NEMT fees. These costs can add to the overall financial strain on residents, particularly those with low incomes or limited access to financial assistance programs.

Improvements in **transportation** infrastructure, such as the expansion of public transit options or the enhancement of ride-share services, could significantly improve the overall health score for Huntland residents. Increased access to affordable and reliable **transportation** would enable individuals to access medical care more easily, leading to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life. For those **moving to Huntland**, a careful assessment of their **healthcare access** needs and **transportation** options is essential for ensuring their well-being.