38024, Dyersburg, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38024, Dyersburg, Tennessee is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.36 percent of residents in 38024 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dyersburg Regional Medical Center with a distance of 0.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38024 (Dyersburg, TN)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 38024, encompassing Dyersburg, Tennessee, is significantly impacted by the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up examines the multifaceted landscape of transportation options available for accessing medical facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview for individuals considering moving to Dyersburg and assessing their healthcare access.

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility in Dyersburg is the reliance on personal vehicles. The city's infrastructure is largely designed around car travel, making it the most common mode of transportation for medical appointments. This reality necessitates careful consideration of drive times to various healthcare providers, which can vary significantly depending on location and traffic conditions.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Dyersburg's healthcare landscape is centered around Dyersburg Regional Medical Center (DRMC), a crucial hub for medical services. Reaching DRMC from different points within 38024 is generally straightforward, with most residents experiencing drive times of under 15 minutes. The primary roadways facilitating this access are Highway 51, a major north-south artery, and Highway 104, which runs east-west.

Navigating the city itself is relatively easy, with well-maintained roads and generally low traffic volume, except during peak hours. Commuting to specialists or other healthcare facilities outside of Dyersburg, such as those in Jackson (approximately 60 miles east), requires travel on Interstate 40, significantly increasing travel time and potentially impacting the overall health score. The I-40 corridor is a crucial link, but it also introduces the possibility of delays due to traffic, construction, or accidents.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options within Dyersburg are limited. The city operates a small public transit system, primarily focused on providing transportation for elderly and disabled residents. However, its routes are not extensive and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities, and the system strives to meet those needs.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This limitation can restrict healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those residing in areas not directly served by the limited bus routes. Individuals moving to Dyersburg should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the implications of the limited public transit options on their overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Dyersburg, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those needing transportation to and from appointments. Companies specializing in medical transport, such as those offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport, are available in the area, but they may require advance booking and can be costly.

**Specific Considerations for Healthcare Access:**

The distance to specialists is a crucial factor influencing healthcare access. While DRMC provides a range of services, residents may need to travel to Jackson or other regional centers for specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or specialized surgeries. The drive times to these facilities, coupled with potential traffic delays, can significantly impact the overall health score.

The availability of pharmacy services is another vital consideration. Dyersburg has several pharmacies, including those within DRMC and independent pharmacies throughout the city. Access to prescription medications is generally good, but the location of pharmacies relative to a resident's home and the availability of delivery services can influence convenience.

**Factors Impacting the Overall Health Score:**

Several factors contribute to the overall health score for residents of 38024, specifically related to transportation and healthcare access. These include the availability of personal vehicles, the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of ride-sharing services, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of transportation.

Individuals considering moving to Dyersburg should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the potential impact on their healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and consideration, particularly for those with mobility issues or those reliant on public transit.

**Improving the Health Score:**

Enhancing the overall health score in 38024 requires a multifaceted approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing availability, and promoting the use of medical transport services can significantly improve healthcare access. Initiatives to improve road infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion can also contribute to shorter drive times and enhanced healthcare access.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of in-home healthcare can mitigate the challenges of transportation. Encouraging the development of more specialized healthcare facilities within Dyersburg would also reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of 38024 is influenced by the transportation options available for accessing healthcare. While Dyersburg offers reasonable access to DRMC and other local services, the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to specialized care facilities present challenges.

Individuals moving to Dyersburg must carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the implications for their healthcare access. A proactive approach, including planning for transportation, exploring ride-sharing options, and utilizing medical transport services when needed, is essential for maintaining a good overall health score. Continued efforts to improve public transportation, expand healthcare services, and address transportation barriers are vital for ensuring that all residents of 38024 have equitable access to quality healthcare.