37857, Rogersville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37857, Rogersville, Tennessee is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.57 percent of residents in 37857 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hawkins County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rogersville, TN (ZIP Code 37857)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Rogersville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37857), requires a deep dive into the realities of accessing healthcare. A critical component of this access is the transportation infrastructure available. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly, reliably, and affordably significantly impacts the health outcomes of the community. This write-up will explore the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare.

Rogersville, nestled in Hawkins County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The town's rural setting, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to longer travel times and limited public transportation options. This is particularly relevant when considering the availability of specialized medical care, which may necessitate travel outside of Rogersville. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Rogersville or for current residents striving to maintain their well-being.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. The major thoroughfare serving Rogersville is **Highway 11W**, which provides a direct route to larger towns and cities like Morristown and Kingsport, where more comprehensive healthcare facilities are located. Travel times along 11W can vary significantly depending on traffic, but generally, reaching Morristown (approximately 30 miles) takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Kingsport (roughly 45 miles) can take up to an hour and 15 minutes, and perhaps longer during peak hours.

**Highway 66** is another important route, connecting Rogersville to the east and providing access to other regional healthcare providers. While the roads are generally well-maintained, the winding nature of the terrain and the potential for inclement weather can add to travel times and create accessibility challenges, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on less reliable vehicles.

Secondary roads, such as **Highway 70** and various county roads, offer alternative routes, but these are often narrower, less well-maintained, and may not be suitable for all vehicles, especially during adverse weather conditions. The quality of these roads is a crucial consideration for anyone who may need to travel to a healthcare facility in an emergency.

Public transportation options in Rogersville are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own vehicles, are unable to drive, or cannot afford the expense of personal transportation. This impacts the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, who may face considerable difficulties in attending appointments or accessing urgent care.

Currently, there is no regular bus service within Rogersville itself. The absence of a fixed-route bus system means that residents are largely reliant on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. This lack of public transportation significantly diminishes the overall health score, as it restricts access to healthcare for a significant portion of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Rogersville is not as consistent or reliable as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution for some, it is not a universally accessible or affordable option.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several providers operate in the region. These services, often specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater to individuals who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Providers such as **Hawkins County Ambulance Service** and **MedTrans** offer NEMT services, but availability and coverage areas can vary.

Medical transport services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or who have mobility issues. These services are often equipped with specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure the safety and comfort of patients. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary. The availability of these services is a vital component of the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation options is a critical consideration. Public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers must adhere to ADA regulations to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This includes features such as wheelchair accessibility, accessible boarding and alighting, and trained personnel to assist passengers. The degree to which these services meet ADA standards directly impacts the overall health score for residents with disabilities.

Healthcare access is further complicated by the distribution of medical facilities in the region. While Rogersville has some primary care physicians and a small local hospital, specialized medical care often requires travel to larger cities like Morristown or Kingsport. This necessitates longer commute times and increases the reliance on personal vehicles or other transportation options.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is another critical factor. The response time of ambulances and the proximity of emergency rooms are essential for ensuring timely medical care in critical situations. The efficiency and effectiveness of the EMS system directly impact the overall health score.

The overall health score for residents of Rogersville, TN (ZIP Code 37857), is significantly influenced by the challenges associated with transportation. The lack of robust public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access for many residents. While medical transport services and EMS are available, their cost and availability can pose additional challenges.

For those considering moving to Rogersville, it is essential to carefully assess the transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably is crucial for maintaining good health. The community could benefit from increased investment in public transportation, ride-sharing initiatives, and accessible medical transport services. Such improvements would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve the quality of life for all residents. Addressing the transportation challenges in Rogersville is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of public health.