37760, Jefferson City, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37760, Jefferson City, Tennessee is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.31 percent of residents in 37760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Healthcare-Jefferson Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Jefferson City, TN (ZIP Code 37760)

Considering a move to Jefferson City, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37760)? Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere and picturesque landscapes, a crucial factor to consider is your access to healthcare. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, dissecting the complexities of transportation and its impact on your ability to reach medical facilities. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

The "Overall Health Score" for 37760 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, primarily due to the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. While Jefferson City itself offers some local healthcare facilities, specialized care often necessitates travel to Knoxville, significantly impacting commute times. This assessment considers both routine and emergency situations, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the existing transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Healthcare Access**

In Jefferson City, the primary means of accessing healthcare is through personal vehicle. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, yet traffic patterns, especially during peak hours, can significantly influence commute times.

For local healthcare needs, the drive to Jefferson City's primary medical provider, Jefferson Memorial Hospital, is generally straightforward. From most residential areas within the 37760 ZIP code, the journey is typically less than 15 minutes. This ease of access is a significant positive aspect of the health score.

However, for specialized care, the situation becomes more complex. Knoxville, approximately 30 miles west, houses a wider array of specialists and advanced medical facilities. The primary route to Knoxville is via Interstate 40 (I-40) or US Highway 11E. During non-peak hours, the drive to Knoxville can take around 30-45 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, traffic congestion can extend this commute to over an hour.

Navigating I-40 can be challenging, especially during inclement weather. Accidents on this major interstate can cause significant delays, potentially impacting access to time-sensitive medical care. US-11E, while offering an alternative route, is often slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits.

**Public Transit: A Limited Role in Healthcare Transportation**

Public transit options in Jefferson City are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The local Jefferson County Transit Authority (JCTA) offers bus services, but routes and schedules are restricted, primarily serving essential needs and not specifically designed for healthcare access.

The JCTA routes do not directly connect to major medical facilities in Knoxville. This limitation means that relying solely on public transit for specialized healthcare needs is practically impossible. The absence of comprehensive public transportation significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for those who cannot drive.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on JCTA buses are present, offering accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules still pose challenges for healthcare-related travel.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Jefferson City, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

For individuals requiring medical transport, several specialized services operate in the area. These services cater to patients with mobility limitations, offering transportation to and from medical appointments. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT).

The availability of these services is a positive aspect of the health score. However, the cost of NEMT can be substantial, particularly for frequent trips. Insurance coverage for NEMT varies, and patients should carefully investigate their insurance policies.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Jefferson City (37760) is moderately positive. The primary strength lies in the relatively short drive times to local healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant challenges, particularly for specialized care in Knoxville.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers some mitigation, but these services come with their own limitations, including cost and availability. The "Overall Health Score" is also affected by the potential for traffic congestion on the major roadways, especially during peak hours and in inclement weather.

For individuals considering moving to Jefferson City, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will likely find healthcare access manageable. However, those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations will face greater challenges.

The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by advocating for expanded public transit options, particularly routes that connect Jefferson City with Knoxville's medical facilities. Supporting initiatives that promote accessible and affordable medical transport services is also essential. A focus on improving transportation infrastructure will ultimately enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.