37387, Tracy City, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37387, Tracy City, Tennessee is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.98 percent of residents in 37387 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southern Tennessee Regional Hlth System Winchester with a distance of 19.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37387

For those considering moving to Tracy City, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37387), understanding the landscape of healthcare access is paramount. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, focusing on the transportation infrastructure and its impact on accessing medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The Overall Health Score for 37387, concerning access to healthcare, is moderate. While the area offers some options, the rural nature of the region presents challenges in terms of travel time and the availability of diverse transportation modes. This score reflects the reality of living in a community where healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration of individual needs.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 37387 is personal vehicles. Residents rely heavily on driving to reach medical facilities. The main roadways serving Tracy City are Tennessee State Route 108 (SR-108) and Tennessee State Route 56 (SR-56). SR-108 provides the most direct route to nearby towns like Monteagle and Winchester, where some healthcare facilities are located. SR-56 offers access to the larger city of McMinnville, a more significant healthcare hub.

Drive times are a crucial factor. Traveling to Monteagle, approximately 10 miles away, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Winchester, roughly 20 miles distant, requires a 30-40 minute drive. McMinnville, a more substantial journey of approximately 40 miles, can take up to an hour or more, especially during peak traffic hours. These travel times highlight the importance of considering the distance and potential delays when scheduling medical appointments.

Road conditions can also influence travel times. SR-108 and SR-56 are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can impact road safety and increase travel times. Residents should be prepared for potential delays due to inclement weather. Careful planning is essential, particularly for those requiring regular medical care.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options within and around 37387 are extremely limited. The primary challenge is the lack of a comprehensive public transit system. This absence significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, disabled, or those with limited financial resources.

While there is no fixed-route bus service directly serving Tracy City, the possibility of utilizing regional transit services exists. However, these services are often demand-response, meaning they require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. Furthermore, these services may not be equipped with the accessibility features needed for individuals with disabilities. This further limits the accessibility of healthcare for a significant portion of the population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader area, but their presence in Tracy City itself can be inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments is risky, as wait times and driver availability cannot be guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for those requiring assistance. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing transport to dialysis appointments or other ongoing treatments. However, these services come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies.

**Healthcare Access and the Elderly Population**

Tracy City has a significant elderly population, making healthcare access a critical concern. The lack of robust public transportation and the potential for long drive times pose challenges for seniors who may no longer drive or have limited mobility. The availability of medical transport services and the support of family and friends become crucial for ensuring access to necessary medical care.

**Healthcare Facilities in the Area**

The immediate vicinity of Tracy City offers limited healthcare facilities. Residents often need to travel to nearby towns and cities to access a broader range of medical services. Monteagle, Winchester, and McMinnville are the primary destinations for healthcare needs. These locations offer hospitals, clinics, specialist offices, and pharmacies.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 37387 is moderate. While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation, the limited public transit options, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the need to travel to nearby towns and cities for a full range of medical services present challenges.

For those considering moving to Tracy City, it is essential to factor in the time and cost associated with accessing healthcare. Individuals should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the availability of support from family, friends, or medical transport services. Planning ahead, scheduling appointments strategically, and being prepared for potential delays are crucial for ensuring access to necessary medical care.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several initiatives could be implemented. Increased investment in public transportation, particularly demand-response services tailored to the needs of the elderly and disabled, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring their consistent availability would also be beneficial. Finally, supporting the expansion of healthcare facilities within Tracy City or in nearby communities would reduce travel times and improve access to care.