37388, Tullahoma, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37388, Tullahoma, Tennessee is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.57 percent of residents in 37388 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital with a distance of 2.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37388 (Tullahoma, Tennessee)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, most notably healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 37388, encompassing the city of Tullahoma, Tennessee, the ease and efficiency of transportation play a crucial role in determining their overall health score. This write-up delves into the complexities of navigating the transportation landscape in this area, assessing the availability of various modes and their impact on healthcare access. For those considering moving to Tullahoma, understanding these nuances is critical.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in and around Tullahoma is **Interstate 24 (I-24)**. This major highway provides a direct route to larger medical centers in cities like Nashville, approximately 75 miles northwest, and Chattanooga, roughly 85 miles southeast. Commuting to these facilities, however, can be time-consuming, with drive times often exceeding an hour and a half, especially during peak traffic hours. **Highway 41A** and **Highway 55** also serve as significant thoroughfares, connecting Tullahoma to surrounding towns and healthcare providers.

Within Tullahoma itself, local roads such as **Jackson Street**, **Wilson Avenue**, and **North Anderson Street** facilitate travel to local clinics, urgent care facilities, and the city's primary hospital, **Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital – Rutherford Hospital**. The proximity to these facilities is generally good, with most residents able to reach them within a 15-20 minute drive. However, traffic congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times, can impact these drive times.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 37388 are limited. The city operates a small, demand-response transit system, primarily offering curb-to-curb service. This system can be a lifeline for those unable to drive, but it is essential to plan trips in advance, as scheduling is required. Information regarding routes and ADA features should be obtained directly from the city's transportation department. This is a critical consideration for those with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tullahoma, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. This variability must be factored into healthcare access planning. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies such as **CareRide** and **Medical Transportation Services** operate in the region, providing specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or stretcher transport. While these services offer convenience and specialized care, they can be expensive and may require prior arrangements.

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in ZIP Code 37388 is, therefore, a mixed bag. While residents enjoy relatively good access to local healthcare providers within the city, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. Long drive times to larger medical centers in neighboring cities and the potential for traffic congestion further complicate the picture. For those considering moving to Tullahoma, these factors should be carefully weighed.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers a degree of flexibility, but their reliability and cost must be considered. Medical transportation services provide specialized care but are often a more expensive option. The city's demand-response transit system serves a vital role for those who cannot drive, but its limited scope and scheduling requirements necessitate careful planning.

The geographical spread of healthcare facilities is also a factor. While local clinics and urgent care centers are readily accessible, specialized medical services may require travel to larger cities. This necessitates careful consideration of drive times, traffic conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation options. The distance to specialized care can significantly impact the overall health score.

The economic status of the residents in ZIP Code 37388 also influences their ability to access healthcare. Lower-income individuals may face greater challenges in affording transportation costs, such as gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fares, or medical transportation services. This disparity in access can exacerbate existing health inequalities.

The demographic makeup of the community also plays a role. Elderly residents and individuals with disabilities may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to mobility limitations. The availability of accessible transportation options, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and public transit with ADA features, is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare access.

Furthermore, the evolving healthcare landscape, with the rise of telehealth and virtual appointments, is beginning to impact transportation needs. While telehealth offers the potential to reduce the need for in-person visits, it is not a substitute for all medical services. The availability of reliable internet access and the digital literacy of residents are critical factors in determining the effectiveness of telehealth.

In conclusion, the overall health score for transportation to healthcare in ZIP Code 37388 is moderate. While local healthcare facilities are generally accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and long drive times to specialized care in larger cities pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but their cost and reliability must be considered. For individuals considering moving to Tullahoma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of suitable options is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare. Understanding these transportation dynamics is a crucial component of making an informed decision about moving to Tullahoma. The city's efforts to improve public transportation and address transportation barriers will significantly impact the overall health and well-being of its residents.