37385, Tellico Plains, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37385, Tellico Plains, Tennessee is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.18 percent of residents in 37385 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 18.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Tellico Plains, TN (ZIP Code 37385)

Tellico Plains, nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the Cherokee National Forest, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering overall health. This assessment, focusing on healthcare access within ZIP code 37385, analyzes the transportation infrastructure and available resources, providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score." This score considers the ease with which residents can access necessary medical services, a crucial determinant of community well-being. Factors like drive times, public transit options, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing and medical transport, are meticulously examined.

The primary obstacle to healthcare access in Tellico Plains is its relative isolation. The town is a charming, yet geographically remote, community. This remoteness significantly impacts transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles is paramount, making the ability to drive a critical factor in accessing healthcare. The winding roads and mountainous terrain further complicate matters, influencing drive times and the feasibility of alternative transportation methods.

The main arteries for navigating the region are US-68 and TN-165. US-68, a two-lane highway, serves as the primary route connecting Tellico Plains to larger population centers like Madisonville and Athens. TN-165, a state route, offers another path, but often with slower speeds and more winding sections. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can impact travel times and safety, further influencing the health score.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are a crucial component of this assessment. The closest hospital, Sweetwater Hospital Association, is approximately a 45-minute drive via US-68. This drive can be significantly longer during peak traffic hours or during periods of inclement weather, potentially delaying access to urgent medical care. Accessing specialist care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to Knoxville, a journey that can take upwards of two hours, depending on the specific clinic location and the chosen route.

Public transportation options within Tellico Plains are severely limited. There is no established bus system or dedicated public transit network. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects those who are unable to drive, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a personal vehicle. This absence presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, impacting the overall health score negatively.

The absence of traditional public transit necessitates exploring alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is often sporadic and their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This lack of consistent availability makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments or urgent care needs.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, catering specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including Rural Medical Transport and First Call Medical Transport. These services typically provide transportation in specially equipped vehicles, often with trained personnel to assist patients. While these services can be invaluable, they often come with a higher cost than other transportation options, making them potentially inaccessible to some residents.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to healthcare. While public transit options are limited, the availability of ADA-compliant medical transport services is a critical consideration. These services must adhere to ADA standards, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation and the medical care they need.

The overall health score for Tellico Plains, considering the factors outlined above, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, creates challenges for many residents. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, their availability and cost can be prohibitive.

Moving to Tellico Plains necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents should factor in the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the potential costs associated with these services. Planning for healthcare needs, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and understanding the available transportation resources, is crucial for maintaining good health.

The geographical isolation of Tellico Plains presents unique challenges. The community's beauty is undeniable, but the remoteness influences healthcare access. The overall health score reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that residents can receive the medical care they need. The score is not a condemnation but a call for awareness.

Improving healthcare access in Tellico Plains requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, even on a limited scale, could significantly improve access for those who cannot drive. Incentivizing ride-sharing services to operate more consistently in the area could also provide a valuable alternative. Continued support for medical transport services is essential, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to the care they need.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Tellico Plains is a dynamic measure, reflecting the interplay of transportation infrastructure, healthcare resources, and the needs of the community. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents and policymakers can work together to improve healthcare access and foster a healthier community. The beauty of the area must be matched by the strength of its care.