The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37359, Mulberry, Tennessee is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
50.76 percent of residents in 37359 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincoln Medical Center with a distance of 9.58 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37359, Mulberry, Tennessee
Overall Health Score | 63 |
---|---|
People Score | 77 |
Provider Score | 39 |
Hospital Score | 52 |
Travel Score | 43 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37359 | Mulberry | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 14.42 | 14.42 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 35.67 | 35.67 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 49.91 | 49.91 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37359, Mulberry, Tennessee
**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37359 (Mulberry, Tennessee)**
Assessing the health landscape of Mulberry, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37359) requires a deep dive into the crucial element of transportation. Healthcare access, a cornerstone of community well-being, hinges on the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport alternatives, offering a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the area. For those considering moving to Mulberry, understanding these factors is paramount.
The primary mode of transportation in Mulberry is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's rural setting, nestled amidst rolling hills and farmland, makes driving the most practical and often the only viable option for many. Residents primarily rely on Highway 64, a vital east-west artery, and secondary roads like Old Lincoln Road and Mulberry Pike to navigate the area.
Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical indicator of accessibility. The nearest hospital, Southern Tennessee Regional Health System – Winchester, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Highway 64 East. This drive, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours or in the event of an accident. Smaller clinics and physician offices located in Winchester and Tullahoma (roughly 30-45 minutes away) offer additional healthcare options, but the travel time adds another layer of complexity.
Public transportation options are severely limited in Mulberry. The absence of a dedicated public bus system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This deficiency disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of public transit is a notable weakness in the overall health score.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability fluctuates depending on driver density and demand. While ride-sharing can provide a solution for some, the cost can be a prohibitive factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, often provided by companies like AMR (American Medical Response) or local ambulance services, cater to patients who need stretcher transport or specialized medical attention during their journey. While essential for certain populations, these services can be costly and may require prior arrangements.
The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Mulberry (37359) reflects the challenges presented by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles for some residents. The drive times to the nearest hospital and clinics, while not excessive, can be a deterrent for those with mobility issues or those facing financial constraints.
To improve the "Overall Health Score," several strategies could be implemented. Investing in a demand-response public transit system, even a limited one, would significantly enhance healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also provide a more affordable and accessible solution.
Furthermore, community outreach programs could be developed to educate residents about available transportation options, including medical transport services and financial assistance programs. Promoting carpooling and volunteer driver networks could also help alleviate transportation challenges.
In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Mulberry (37359) is moderate. While the proximity of Winchester and Tullahoma offers healthcare options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of public transit present notable challenges. For those considering moving to Mulberry, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Careful consideration of drive times, the availability of ride-sharing, and the potential need for medical transport services is crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care.
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