37687, Roan Mountain, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37687, Roan Mountain, Tennessee is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.05 percent of residents in 37687 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sycamore Shoals Hospital with a distance of 14.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Roan Mountain, TN (ZIP Code 37687)

Roan Mountain, Tennessee, nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique tapestry of natural beauty and rural living. While the breathtaking vistas and tranquil atmosphere are undeniable draws for those considering moving to Roan Mountain, a critical aspect to evaluate is the accessibility of healthcare services. This comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 37687, focusing on the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for the community.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Roan Mountain is the reliance on personal vehicles. The mountainous terrain and dispersed population necessitate a dependence on automobiles for most residents. The primary arteries for navigating the area are **Highway 19E** and **Highway 143**. These roads, while scenic, can present challenges, particularly during inclement weather. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities become critical factors in assessing healthcare access.

The nearest major medical center is **Johnson City Medical Center**, located approximately 30-45 minutes away, depending on traffic and the specific location within Roan Mountain. The route typically involves traveling south on **Highway 19E**, then merging onto **Interstate 26**. This journey, while relatively straightforward, can be impacted by seasonal traffic, especially during tourist season when visitors flock to the Roan Mountain State Park.

Another significant healthcare provider is **Sycamore Shoals Hospital** in Elizabethton, approximately 20-30 minutes away. The route involves traveling north on **Highway 19E**. This route is generally less congested than the Johnson City route, making it a viable option for residents seeking medical attention. However, the distance and road conditions still pose a challenge, especially for those with mobility limitations or medical emergencies.

Public transportation options in Roan Mountain are limited. The primary public transit provider in the region is the **Elizabethton Transit System**. However, their routes and service frequency are limited, primarily serving the Elizabethton area and not extending directly into Roan Mountain. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

The Elizabethton Transit System does not have any routes that directly service Roan Mountain. The nearest bus stop is located in Elizabethton, which is approximately a 20-minute drive. The buses are equipped with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features**, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the lack of direct routes and the limited service hours severely restrict the usefulness of public transit for healthcare access in Roan Mountain.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the broader region, including Johnson City and Elizabethton. However, their availability in Roan Mountain is less consistent. Ride-sharing services are often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for some residents, especially for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including **Med-Trans Corporation** and **Air Methods**. These services provide ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to hospitals and medical facilities. While these services are essential for those with medical needs, they can be costly and require pre-planning.

The availability of medical transport services is particularly important for residents with mobility issues or those who cannot drive. However, the reliance on these services highlights the limitations of other transportation options and underscores the importance of careful planning and financial considerations.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Roan Mountain, TN (ZIP Code 37687) is moderately impacted by the challenges of transportation. While the area offers stunning natural beauty and a peaceful lifestyle, healthcare access is significantly reliant on personal vehicles. The distance to medical facilities, limited public transit, and inconsistent ride-sharing availability present barriers for some residents.

The drive times to Johnson City Medical Center and Sycamore Shoals Hospital are reasonable, but the dependence on roadways and potential for weather-related delays must be considered. The lack of direct public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access. Medical transport services provide a vital safety net, but their cost and the need for pre-planning add to the complexity.

For individuals considering moving to Roan Mountain, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and medical requirements is crucial. Those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. The availability of healthcare access is a critical factor to consider when weighing the benefits of rural living.

Future improvements in healthcare access could include expanded public transit routes, increased ride-sharing availability, and the potential for telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits. Community initiatives to support transportation for those in need could also enhance healthcare access. These efforts would improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for residents of Roan Mountain.