37871, Strawberry Plains, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37871, Strawberry Plains, Tennessee is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.94 percent of residents in 37871 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Healthcare-Jefferson Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Strawberry Plains (ZIP Code 37871)

Strawberry Plains, nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning **healthcare access**. This evaluation delves into the intricacies of **transportation** options available to residents, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative solutions. We will examine the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the area to reach essential medical services, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing crucial care. This assessment is especially pertinent for individuals and families **moving to Strawberry Plains**, offering a crucial understanding of the practicalities of healthcare access.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** in and out of Strawberry Plains is Interstate 40 (I-40). This major east-west thoroughfare provides a direct link to Knoxville, a significant regional hub for specialized medical care. Driving to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a comprehensive facility, typically takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend this drive time.

Another critical route is U.S. Route 11E (also known as Andrew Jackson Highway). This road offers a more direct, albeit slower, route to healthcare facilities in Jefferson City and the eastern side of Knoxville. Drive times to Jefferson City's medical providers average around 15 to 20 minutes, making it a convenient option for routine appointments and urgent care needs. However, this route is often congested, especially during peak hours.

Secondary roads, such as Strawberry Plains Pike and Rutledge Pike, provide access to local medical offices and clinics. These routes are generally less congested than I-40 and U.S. 11E, but they can be winding and less direct. Travel times on these roads are typically longer, averaging 20 to 30 minutes to reach major healthcare centers.

Public **transportation** options in Strawberry Plains are limited. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides some service to the area, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. Route 11, for example, provides service along U.S. 11E, offering a connection to Knoxville. However, the service frequency is limited, with buses running primarily during peak hours. The limited schedule and route coverage can pose significant challenges for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on KAT buses is a crucial factor. While KAT strives to provide accessible services, the infrastructure limitations in Strawberry Plains, such as the lack of sidewalks and accessible bus stops, can create barriers for individuals with disabilities. This can significantly impact their ability to access healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Strawberry Plains. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate. During peak hours or in times of high demand, the cost of a ride can be significantly higher, potentially making it an unaffordable option for some residents. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in the area may be limited, leading to longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are also available. These services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs or those who are unable to drive themselves. Ambulance services provide rapid transport for emergency situations, while NEMT services offer transportation for appointments and other medical-related needs. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited depending on the individual's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities in relation to Strawberry Plains is another crucial factor. While Knoxville offers a wide range of specialized medical services, the distance and **transportation** challenges can create barriers to access. Residents may need to travel significant distances to reach specialists, diagnostic centers, or hospitals. This can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention.

The availability of primary care physicians and urgent care facilities within Strawberry Plains is also essential. Having access to local healthcare providers can reduce the need for long-distance travel for routine appointments and minor medical issues. The presence of these facilities can significantly improve the overall health score by making healthcare more accessible and convenient.

The socioeconomic factors within Strawberry Plains also play a significant role in **healthcare access**. Income levels, insurance coverage, and access to a personal vehicle all influence an individual's ability to access healthcare services. Low-income individuals and those without insurance may face financial barriers to care, making it difficult to afford **transportation** costs, co-pays, and other healthcare expenses.

The age demographics of the population in Strawberry Plains are also relevant. Older adults may face mobility challenges and may be more reliant on public **transportation** or medical **transportation** services. The availability of age-friendly **transportation** options and healthcare facilities is crucial for this demographic.

Considering all these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Strawberry Plains (ZIP Code 37871) is moderate. While the area benefits from proximity to Knoxville and its comprehensive medical facilities, the **transportation** challenges, limited public transit options, and potential financial barriers create obstacles for some residents.

For individuals **moving to Strawberry Plains**, it is crucial to carefully consider the **transportation** options available and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare. Researching the availability of local healthcare providers, assessing the feasibility of using public transit or ride-sharing services, and understanding the potential costs of medical **transportation** are all vital steps in ensuring access to essential medical care.

The score can be improved by increasing public **transportation** frequency, expanding route coverage, and improving the accessibility of bus stops and vehicles. Encouraging the development of local healthcare facilities, such as primary care clinics and urgent care centers, can also improve the overall health score. Addressing the socioeconomic factors that impact **healthcare access**, such as providing financial assistance and expanding insurance coverage, is also crucial.

In conclusion, while Strawberry Plains offers access to healthcare resources, the **transportation** landscape presents challenges. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** for all residents, particularly those with limited mobility, financial constraints, or without access to personal vehicles. This assessment provides a valuable framework for understanding the complexities of **healthcare access** and highlights the importance of proactive measures to ensure that all residents can receive the medical care they need.