37892, Winfield, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37892, Winfield, Tennessee is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.45 percent of residents in 37892 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Big South Fork Medical Center with a distance of 6.06 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37892 (Winfield, Tennessee)**

The quaint town of Winfield, Tennessee (ZIP code 37892), presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and evolving healthcare needs. This analysis delves into the overall health score for residents, specifically focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access. We will examine the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all vital components in determining the ease with which Winfield residents can reach essential medical care. For those considering moving to Winfield, this information is critical.

The overall health score is a composite measure, acknowledging that access to healthcare is not solely about proximity. It encompasses the availability of medical facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the financial feasibility of accessing care. This score is designed to be a holistic view, providing a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities for residents of Winfield.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary mode of transportation for Winfield residents to access healthcare is, inevitably, the automobile. The town's location in Scott County necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for reaching medical facilities. The major arteries for this journey are US-27 and TN-63. Traveling south on US-27 provides access to healthcare facilities in Huntsville and further south, to Knoxville. TN-63 offers a route east towards LaFollette and eventually Knoxville, providing an alternative pathway to medical services.

Drive times are significantly impacted by the rural nature of the area. Expect travel times to vary based on destination and traffic conditions. Huntsville, the closest town with a hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Reaching Knoxville, with its wider array of hospitals and specialists, can take upwards of an hour, particularly during peak traffic hours. This extended travel time presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with chronic conditions or emergencies.

Road conditions, while generally well-maintained, can be affected by weather, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can make travel treacherous, further complicating access to medical care. Residents should always be prepared for delays and consider the impact of weather when planning medical appointments. The ability to efficiently navigate these roads is vital to overall health.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Winfield are extremely limited. Scott County, being a rural area, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There is no dedicated bus service that regularly serves Winfield or the surrounding areas. This absence of public transportation disproportionately affects those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, disabled individuals, and those with limited financial resources.

The lack of public transit significantly reduces healthcare access for these vulnerable populations. They are left with few options, relying on family, friends, or potentially costly ride-sharing services. This lack of mobility directly contributes to a lower overall health score for those without personal transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Winfield area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The rural nature of the area means that ride-sharing services may be less frequent and more expensive than in urban centers. This can make them an unreliable option for routine medical appointments or emergency situations.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services can provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other forms of transportation. However, these services often come with a significant cost, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial considerations in the overall health score. While they offer alternatives to personal vehicles, their limitations in terms of availability, cost, and geographical coverage must be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Facilities and Availability**

Winfield itself has limited healthcare facilities. Residents primarily rely on healthcare services in Huntsville, LaFollette, and Knoxville. Huntsville Hospital, the closest hospital, provides essential medical services, but specialized care often requires travel to Knoxville. Knoxville boasts a wide array of hospitals, including the University of Tennessee Medical Center, providing access to a comprehensive range of medical specialists and advanced treatments.

The availability of healthcare facilities is a critical factor in the overall health score. While the proximity of Huntsville Hospital is a positive factor, the need to travel to Knoxville for specialized care adds to the complexity of healthcare access. The quality and accessibility of these facilities directly impact the health outcomes of Winfield residents.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of healthcare is a significant factor in the overall health score. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services, can add significantly to the overall cost of healthcare. This financial burden can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical care, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

The affordability of health insurance and access to financial assistance programs are critical factors in mitigating the financial barriers to healthcare access. Residents should be aware of available resources, such as Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, to help manage healthcare costs.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for access to healthcare in Winfield (ZIP code 37892) is moderate. While the proximity of Huntsville Hospital offers a degree of local access, the limitations in public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the need to travel to Knoxville for specialized care pose significant challenges.

The absence of a robust public transit system disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial, but their limitations must be acknowledged. The financial burden of transportation costs further complicates healthcare access.

**Recommendations**

To improve the overall health score for Winfield residents, several recommendations are in order.

* **Advocate for Public Transit:** Explore opportunities to establish or expand public transit options, even if limited, to serve Winfield and connect it to healthcare facilities in surrounding areas.
* **Support Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Encourage the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services by providing incentives or partnerships to increase accessibility.
* **Promote Healthcare Awareness:** Educate residents about available healthcare resources, including local clinics, hospitals, and financial assistance programs.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Ensure roads are well-maintained, particularly during winter months, to minimize travel delays and ensure safe access to healthcare.
* **Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations to address transportation barriers and improve healthcare access.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Winfield can improve its overall health score and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. Considering a move to Winfield? Prioritize these factors for your family's health.