38017, Collierville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38017, Collierville, Tennessee is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.95 percent of residents in 38017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital with a distance of 10.76 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38017 (Collierville, TN)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and access to care significantly impacts health outcomes. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare accessibility for residents of Collierville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38017), considering various transportation options and their implications on health. We'll examine drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a nuanced perspective on healthcare access for those living in or considering **moving to Collierville**.

The foundation of healthcare access in 38017 rests upon the efficiency of **transportation** networks. The primary thoroughfares, including Poplar Avenue (Highway 72), Byhalia Road, and Houston Levee Road, serve as critical arteries for commuting to medical facilities. Drive times, however, are highly variable, influenced by peak traffic hours, accidents, and the specific destination. Residents seeking care at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville, for example, can typically expect a relatively short commute, often under 10 minutes, depending on their location within the zip code.

However, accessing specialized care or larger medical centers in Memphis, approximately 25 miles west, requires navigating Interstate 269 (I-269) and Interstate 22 (I-22). Drive times to Memphis hospitals, such as Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital or St. Francis Hospital, can range from 30 minutes to an hour, especially during rush hour. This extended travel time can present challenges for those with chronic conditions, requiring frequent appointments, or during medical emergencies.

Public **transportation** options in Collierville are limited, impacting healthcare **access**. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) does not directly serve Collierville, leaving residents primarily reliant on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive, or have mobility limitations. The absence of robust public transit also affects individuals with limited financial resources, as relying on ride-sharing or medical transport can be expensive.

While MATA does not directly serve Collierville, it is worth noting that the MATA system is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of direct routes to and from Collierville negates this advantage for residents in need of accessible **transportation**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution. These services provide on-demand access to medical appointments, offering convenience and flexibility. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can also be a financial burden for some individuals, impacting their ability to seek necessary healthcare.

Medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) for appointments, dialysis, and other medical needs. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical assistance during **transportation**. However, these services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicle use, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Collierville itself significantly influences healthcare **access**. Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville provides a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and various specialty services. This local access reduces the need for extended commutes for many residents. However, for specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology, residents may need to travel to Memphis medical centers.

The physical environment of Collierville also influences healthcare **access**. The town's layout, with its suburban sprawl and reliance on personal vehicles, can present challenges for individuals who do not drive or have limited mobility. Sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure may not be consistently available throughout the town, making it difficult for individuals to walk or use assistive devices to reach medical facilities.

The socio-economic factors within 38017 also play a role in healthcare **access**. Income levels, insurance coverage, and access to social support networks can influence an individual's ability to afford healthcare services and **transportation**. Individuals with limited financial resources may face greater challenges in accessing care, particularly if they rely on expensive **transportation** options like ride-sharing or medical **transportation**.

The overall health score for healthcare **access** in 38017 is moderately positive. While the presence of a local hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services provide some advantages, the lack of robust public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long commutes to specialized care in Memphis present challenges. The cost of **transportation** and the physical environment also impact healthcare **access** for some residents.

For those considering **moving to Collierville**, it's crucial to weigh the convenience of local healthcare facilities against the potential need for travel to Memphis for specialized care. Assessing personal **transportation** capabilities, financial resources, and healthcare needs is essential. Understanding the limitations of public **transportation** and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** is also critical.

In conclusion, while Collierville offers a good starting point for healthcare **access**, especially with the local hospital, residents must be aware of the **transportation** challenges. A comprehensive understanding of drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing, and the options for medical **transportation** is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for anyone planning on **moving to Collierville** and establishing a healthcare plan.