37872, Sunbright, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37872, Sunbright, Tennessee is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.55 percent of residents in 37872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Big South Fork Medical Center with a distance of 18.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sunbright, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37872)

The picturesque community of Sunbright, Tennessee, nestled within ZIP code 37872, offers a tranquil escape. Yet, the serenity of rural living often presents challenges, particularly when it comes to **healthcare access**. This comprehensive analysis delves into the **transportation** landscape surrounding healthcare facilities, providing an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents. We'll examine commute times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport, considering the unique needs of this rural population. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Sunbright**, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical services.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare providers from Sunbright. Factors considered include distance, mode of transport, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the availability of alternative options. The score will reflect the reality of navigating the region's **transportation** infrastructure to access vital medical care.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Sunbright is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. The surrounding landscape is characterized by winding roads and rolling hills, influencing drive times to various healthcare destinations.

The most direct route to larger medical facilities often involves navigating **Highway 127** south. This road, though scenic, can experience moderate traffic, particularly during peak hours. Reaching the nearest hospital, located in Jamestown, Tennessee, typically requires a drive of approximately 25-30 minutes. The journey involves approximately 20 miles of travel.

Another option involves traveling north on **Highway 127** to reach the town of Oneida. While Oneida offers some medical services, including urgent care facilities and primary care physicians, the drive time is comparable to Jamestown, ranging from 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Smaller local roads, such as **Highway 62** and **Highway 327**, offer alternative routes. However, these roads are generally narrower and more winding, potentially increasing travel time and posing challenges during inclement weather. Residents should consider these factors when planning medical appointments, especially during winter months when icy conditions are common.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in this rural area are extremely limited. The primary challenge is the absence of a comprehensive public transportation network. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

While specific bus routes are not available in the Sunbright area, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) may offer demand-response transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services typically require advance booking and are often limited in scope. Further investigation into specific eligibility requirements and service areas is essential for those reliant on public transit.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation. However, given the absence of a robust public transit system in Sunbright, ADA compliance is primarily relevant to the limited demand-response services. Ensuring these services are accessible, with features such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is critical for providing equitable **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is often inconsistent and their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and scheduling, as securing a ride can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable option. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical transport brands operate in the region.

One such brand is Priority Ambulance, which offers non-emergency medical transport services. These services cater to individuals who require assistance but do not need emergency medical care.

Another option is American Medical Response (AMR), which provides both emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. AMR's services are available throughout Tennessee, including the Sunbright area.

The availability of these services offers a valuable lifeline for residents who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of **transportation**. However, these services can be costly, and insurance coverage varies. Residents should investigate their insurance policies and explore potential financial assistance programs to mitigate the financial burden.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Sunbright, Tennessee, is moderately challenging. While the availability of medical facilities in nearby towns offers a degree of **healthcare access**, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant hurdles. The geographical isolation and the lack of readily available alternative modes of **transportation** exacerbate these challenges.

The drive times to healthcare providers, while not excessively long, require careful planning. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transport further complicate the situation.

**Moving to Sunbright** requires a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs and a proactive approach to securing reliable access to medical care. Residents should familiarize themselves with local healthcare providers, explore insurance coverage for medical transport, and develop contingency plans for accessing medical services during inclement weather or in the event of vehicle breakdowns.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Sunbright, Tennessee, reflects a reality shaped by geographical isolation and limited **transportation** options. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the ability to readily access medical care requires careful planning and a proactive approach. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive. For anyone **moving to Sunbright**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape and its implications for **healthcare access** is essential for ensuring their well-being. The community could benefit from exploring potential partnerships to improve **transportation** options, such as expanding demand-response services or exploring collaborations with ride-sharing companies to enhance **healthcare access** for all residents.