38029, Ellendale, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38029, Ellendale, Tennessee is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 38029 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Francis Bartlett Medical Center with a distance of 3.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38029 (Ellendale, TN)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when assessing the overall health of a community. For residents of Ellendale, Tennessee (ZIP code 38029), this analysis delves into the intricacies of transportation and its impact on accessing vital medical services. This "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this suburban community.

Ellendale, nestled in Shelby County, presents a unique challenge: a blend of suburban sprawl and rural character. This impacts the ease with which residents can reach healthcare facilities. The primary mode of transportation is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Navigating the roads is crucial.

The main arteries connecting Ellendale to healthcare hubs are U.S. Highway 64 (Stage Road) and U.S. Highway 70 (Summer Avenue). These highways provide relatively direct routes, yet traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Secondary roads like Davies Plantation Road and Raleigh Millington Road offer alternative routes, but these can be slower and more circuitous, especially when considering the need for urgent medical care.

Drive times to major hospitals and medical centers are a key factor. Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville, while relatively close, can still require a 20-30 minute drive during rush hour via Highway 64. Reaching Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital involves a similar commute. For more specialized care, such as at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in downtown Memphis, the drive time can easily exceed 45 minutes, potentially stretching to an hour or more, especially with traffic on Interstate 240. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring emergency care.

Public transportation options in Ellendale are limited. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) does not have extensive bus routes serving the immediate area. While some routes may extend into the surrounding areas, they are unlikely to provide direct or efficient access to healthcare facilities. The lack of comprehensive public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges for those without access to a car.

MATA does operate some routes that may offer some connectivity. However, these are likely infrequent, and the need for transfers would significantly increase travel time. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these routes is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While MATA strives to provide accessible services, the limited reach of its routes in Ellendale poses a challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services are generally available in the Memphis metropolitan area, including Ellendale. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be a concern.

Medical transport services are a critical component of healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Memphis area. These services typically offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive themselves. The availability and cost of these services are essential considerations for residents of Ellendale who may require them.

The availability of medical transport services varies. Companies like Logisticare and MTM are often contracted by insurance providers to offer NEMT. However, the eligibility criteria for these services and the potential for delays or scheduling challenges can impact healthcare access. Understanding the specific requirements and limitations of these services is crucial for residents who may need them.

When considering moving to Ellendale, prospective residents should carefully evaluate the healthcare access situation. While the area offers a suburban lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The drive times to medical facilities, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services should all be considered.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Ellendale, Tennessee (38029) is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents significant barriers. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing can impact access, particularly for vulnerable populations. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline, but their accessibility and affordability are critical considerations.

To improve the health score, investments in public transportation are essential. Expanding MATA routes to better serve Ellendale would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and subsidizing transportation costs for low-income individuals could also help. Furthermore, ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transport services is paramount.

Ultimately, the overall health of a community is directly linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Ellendale, Tennessee, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. By carefully considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and advocate for improvements in transportation infrastructure. The goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, have equitable access to the medical care they need.