37727, Del Rio, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37727, Del Rio, Tennessee is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.64 percent of residents in 37727 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Healthcare - Newport Medical Center with a distance of 9.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37727 (Del Rio, TN)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 37727, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. We will delve into the realities of navigating the roads, exploring public transit options, and examining the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This analysis is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Del Rio, Tennessee, as it directly impacts their healthcare access.

The score is a composite, considering drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative transportation options. This evaluation is not a definitive medical assessment but rather an indicator of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. The overall health score for 37727 is **moderate**, reflecting a blend of challenges and opportunities in the realm of healthcare transportation.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Del Rio is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. This means the condition of the roads and the distances to healthcare facilities significantly impact the overall health score. Residents of 37727 rely on a network of highways and local roads to reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists.

The most direct route to larger medical centers, such as those in Newport, often involves navigating **US-321** and **US-25/70**. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times and exacerbating health emergencies. Rural roads, like **Del Rio Road** and **Dandridge Pike**, provide access to local clinics and pharmacies, but their winding nature and occasional lack of shoulders can pose challenges, particularly for those with mobility issues.

Drive times to Newport, the closest city with a hospital (Newport Medical Center), typically range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 37727. Accessing Knoxville, a regional healthcare hub, requires a longer journey, often exceeding an hour via **I-40**. These longer travel times are a significant factor in the moderate overall health score. Delays can be critical in emergency situations, highlighting the importance of readily available and efficient transportation options.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transit in rural areas like Del Rio often faces limitations. The availability of buses or other forms of public transportation can be a crucial factor in healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. Unfortunately, the public transit options within and around 37727 are extremely limited.

There is no dedicated local bus service operating directly within the ZIP code. Residents may need to rely on occasional demand-response services, such as those offered by the local Council on Aging or other community organizations. These services, while helpful, often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, potentially hindering timely access to healthcare.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the overall health score. The absence of readily available and reliable public transportation can isolate residents and create barriers to accessing essential medical care. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any available transportation is also a significant factor.

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

In the absence of extensive public transit, ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport become increasingly important. The availability and affordability of these options directly influence the health score, offering alternative ways to reach healthcare facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the Del Rio area, though their presence can be sporadic and availability is not guaranteed. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing, with its fluctuating availability and potential expense, contributes to the moderate overall health score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also an essential component of healthcare access. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other local ambulance services are available for emergency situations. However, non-emergency medical transport options may be more limited in rural areas. The availability and cost of medical transport services are critical factors in the overall health score, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Factors Influencing the Health Score: A Synthesis**

The overall health score for 37727 is a reflection of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities related to healthcare transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the final assessment.

The longer drive times to larger medical centers, particularly those in Knoxville, are a significant concern. The absence of reliable public transit further exacerbates these challenges, especially for vulnerable populations. While ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives, their availability and cost can be significant barriers.

The moderate overall health score suggests that residents of 37727 have access to healthcare, but their ability to do so is often dependent on factors that can be unpredictable or financially burdensome. This analysis is particularly important for individuals considering moving to Del Rio, as it highlights the importance of carefully considering transportation options when planning their healthcare needs.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the overall health score for 37727 requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, even on a limited scale, could significantly improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Expanding the availability and affordability of medical transport services is crucial, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of local clinics and pharmacies could reduce the need for long-distance travel. By addressing these challenges and implementing strategic improvements, the community can enhance its healthcare access and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents. The ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone in 37727 can reach the healthcare they need, when they need it, without undue hardship.