38044, Hornsby, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38044, Hornsby, Tennessee is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.67 percent of residents in 38044 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Tennessee Healthcare Bolivar Hospital with a distance of 13.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38044

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its accessibility to healthcare. For residents of Hornsby, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38044), understanding the ease of accessing medical services is paramount. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” by examining transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport alternatives, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering **moving to Hornsby**.

Hornsby, a rural community nestled in Hardeman County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**. The "Overall Health Score" considers the realities of transportation in this area, recognizing that distance and infrastructure significantly impact a resident’s ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in 38044 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The road network, while functional, presents certain limitations. The primary arteries connecting Hornsby to larger medical centers are State Route 57 (SR-57) and US Highway 64 (US-64). SR-57 provides a direct route eastward, while US-64 offers a broader east-west corridor.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Bolivar, approximately 15-20 minutes away via SR-57. For more specialized care, residents often travel to Jackson (approximately 1 hour via US-64) or Memphis (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via US-64 and I-40). These longer drives necessitate careful planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs.

Traffic conditions are generally light in this rural area, but inclement weather can significantly impact travel times. Heavy rainfall or icy conditions can make roads treacherous, potentially delaying access to care. The availability of well-maintained roads is a crucial element of the "Overall Health Score," reflecting the importance of safe and reliable transportation.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in 38044 are extremely limited. Hardeman County does not have a dedicated public transportation system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals who do not own vehicles, cannot drive, or have limited mobility.

The absence of public transportation creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations. This includes the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes who may not be able to afford or maintain a personal vehicle. The lack of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, which can be less reliable and more expensive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability is often limited, particularly in rural areas. The frequency of service and the potential for longer wait times can be a significant drawback for individuals requiring urgent medical attention. The reliability of ride-share services is a crucial consideration in the "Overall Health Score," reflecting their potential as a supplemental transportation option.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in Hornsby. These services are essential for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or disabilities. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, posing a financial burden for many residents. The affordability and accessibility of medical transport services are critical components of the "Overall Health Score," reflecting their importance in ensuring timely access to care.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including both ambulance services for emergency situations and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers. Ambulance services are typically dispatched through 911 and are equipped to handle urgent medical needs. NEMT providers offer transportation for scheduled medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other non-emergency healthcare needs.

The specific brands and their service areas can vary, so residents should be aware of the available options and their associated costs. Researching and understanding the nuances of these services is crucial for ensuring access to appropriate medical transportation when needed.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 38044 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Bolivar provides relatively quick access to basic medical care, the lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for certain segments of the population. The availability of ride-share services is limited, and the cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier.

The "Overall Health Score" is impacted by the distance to larger medical centers in Jackson and Memphis. These longer travel times can create delays in accessing specialized care. The lack of alternative **transportation** options exacerbates this issue, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those who cannot drive.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" in 38044 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, even a limited service tailored to the needs of the elderly and disabled, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Exploring partnerships with ride-share companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those in need is essential. Encouraging the development of telehealth services, allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could also help bridge the gap in access.

For those **moving to Hornsby**, careful consideration should be given to their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Assessing the availability of transportation options and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care is crucial. Proactive planning, including identifying potential transportation resources and establishing relationships with healthcare providers, can help ensure access to timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static. It is influenced by factors such as infrastructure improvements, technological advancements, and community initiatives. By addressing the identified challenges and implementing the recommended strategies, the community can work towards improving the health and well-being of its residents and creating a more accessible healthcare environment.