37617, Blountville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37617, Blountville, Tennessee is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.19 percent of residents in 37617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indian Path Community Hospital with a distance of 9.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37617 (Blountville, Tennessee)

The overall health score for residents of Blountville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37617), concerning access to healthcare, is a complex calculation. It hinges on a variety of factors, with transportation being a central pillar. This analysis examines the availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. Ultimately, this write-up aims to provide a comprehensive understanding for those considering moving to Blountville, focusing on the realities of healthcare access.

Blountville itself is a relatively small community, nestled in Sullivan County. The immediate area may not boast a vast array of specialized medical facilities. Residents often need to travel to nearby cities like Bristol, Kingsport, or Johnson City for comprehensive healthcare. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, public transit, or alternative transportation methods, making transportation a critical determinant of overall health.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Blountville are crucial for accessing healthcare. Interstate 81 (I-81) is the major artery, providing relatively quick access to both north and south-bound destinations. Traveling south on I-81, residents can reach Bristol, Virginia, in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Bristol is home to Bristol Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider offering a wide range of services.

Heading north on I-81, the journey to Kingsport, Tennessee, takes around 20-30 minutes. Kingsport is a hub for healthcare, housing facilities like Holston Valley Medical Center. This hospital offers a broad spectrum of medical specialties. The drive is typically straightforward, but traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly near major interchanges.

Accessing Johnson City, Tennessee, generally requires a combination of I-81 and US Highway 11E. The drive is typically 30-40 minutes, depending on the specific location within Johnson City and traffic. Johnson City is home to the Johnson City Medical Center, a tertiary care center offering advanced medical services.

Smaller roads, such as Highway 126 and Highway 394, provide local access, but they are generally slower routes and may not be ideal for emergency situations. The condition of these roads can also impact travel times, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Blountville and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Bristol Tennessee Virginia Transit (BTVA), which may offer limited routes that extend into Sullivan County. However, these routes often have infrequent schedules and may not directly serve healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. BTVA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall convenience of public transit for healthcare appointments remain a challenge.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This is particularly relevant for elderly residents, those with disabilities, and individuals with limited financial resources.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. They can provide a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who prefer not to drive or do not own a vehicle. However, ride-share availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during peak demand or in areas with limited service.

Medical transport services are also available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically involve specialized vehicles and trained personnel to provide safe and comfortable transportation. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer these services. However, medical transport can be expensive, and the availability may be limited depending on the specific needs and location.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving:**

The overall health score for Blountville residents, regarding healthcare access, is moderately impacted by transportation. While the area benefits from its proximity to major highways, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles create challenges.

For those considering moving to Blountville, it's essential to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should investigate the availability and accessibility of medical transport services.

Furthermore, the distance to healthcare facilities should be factored into the decision-making process. While Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City offer a range of medical services, the travel times can be significant, especially in emergency situations.

The overall health score is also influenced by the affordability of healthcare. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-share fees, can add to the overall expense of healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

Blountville, Tennessee (37617), offers a relatively accessible healthcare landscape, primarily dependent on personal transportation. The presence of I-81 provides convenient access to major healthcare hubs. However, the limited public transit options and potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport can present challenges. For those considering moving to Blountville, a thorough evaluation of transportation needs, healthcare requirements, and associated costs is essential to ensuring adequate healthcare access. The overall health score is therefore a complex equation, balancing the availability of healthcare facilities with the realities of transportation within the community.