37618, Bluff City, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37618, Bluff City, Tennessee is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.81 percent of residents in 37618 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sycamore Shoals Hospital with a distance of 8.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37618

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 37618, encompassing the heart of Bluff City, Tennessee, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for evaluating the overall health score. This write-up delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare, examining drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, providing a comprehensive assessment for residents and those considering moving to Bluff City.

The primary arteries for navigating Bluff City are Interstate 26 (I-26) and US Route 11E (East Main Street). I-26 offers a relatively swift route for accessing healthcare facilities located further afield, such as those in Johnson City or Kingsport. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. US Route 11E, serving as the main thoroughfare, provides direct access to local clinics and hospitals, but its slower pace and numerous traffic lights require careful consideration.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within and around 37618 vary considerably. The closest options, including urgent care clinics and primary care physicians, might be reachable within a 5-15 minute drive, depending on traffic. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in Johnson City (approximately 20-30 minutes) or Kingsport (around 30-45 minutes). These longer commutes can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility, affecting their healthcare access.

Public transportation in Bluff City, while present, presents limitations. The Bristol Tennessee Transit (BTT) system offers bus routes, but their coverage within 37618 is not extensive. Route 1, for instance, travels along State Street, providing access to some medical facilities, but it may not directly serve all residential areas. The frequency of buses and the limited operating hours can also pose obstacles, especially for those requiring early morning or evening appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative for transportation to healthcare appointments. Their availability in Bluff City is generally good, providing on-demand access to rides. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances. This financial burden can be a barrier for low-income individuals, impacting their ability to seek timely medical attention.

Medical transportation services play a vital role in facilitating healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are essential for transporting patients to and from appointments, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Understanding the availability and responsiveness of these services is critical for assessing the overall health score of 37618.

Several medical transport brands operate in the area. FirstCall Ambulance Service provides emergency and non-emergency medical transport. Additionally, companies like MedTrans Corporation and other local providers offer NEMT services, catering to individuals who need assistance but do not require an ambulance. These services often require advance booking, so planning ahead is essential.

The accessibility of healthcare is a critical determinant of a community's health. Factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services all contribute to the ease or difficulty with which residents can access medical care. In 37618, the transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges. While the presence of I-26 and US Route 11E provides access to a range of healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and distance can impact drive times.

The limited public transit options and the cost of ride-sharing can create barriers for some residents. Medical transportation services offer crucial support for those with mobility limitations, but their availability and responsiveness are vital considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Bluff City, the transportation landscape should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities to their potential residence, understanding the available transportation options, and evaluating the potential costs associated with accessing care are all essential steps.

The overall health score for 37618 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the presence of healthcare facilities in the broader region is a positive aspect, the challenges associated with transportation can diminish healthcare access for some residents. Improvements in public transit, increased affordability of ride-sharing, and the expansion of medical transportation services would significantly enhance the overall health score of Bluff City.

A community that prioritizes healthcare access is a healthier community. By addressing the transportation challenges and promoting accessible healthcare options, Bluff City can improve the well-being of its residents and create a more vibrant and thriving community.