38069, Stanton, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38069, Stanton, Tennessee is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.86 percent of residents in 38069 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital Tipton with a distance of 18.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Stanton, TN (ZIP Code 38069)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Stanton, Tennessee, nestled within the 38069 ZIP code, this access is heavily influenced by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities associated with commuting to healthcare facilities. The score, while not a numerical value, will be conveyed through a detailed examination of the transportation landscape, highlighting its impact on the well-being of those living and considering moving to Stanton.

Stanton, a small town, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. This reliance presents both advantages and disadvantages when considering healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare, **Highway 51**, serves as the main artery, connecting Stanton to larger towns and cities where more comprehensive medical services are available. Driving times are crucial, and the distance to healthcare providers significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score."

The nearest hospitals are located in Covington, approximately 15-20 minutes away via **Highway 51**. This relatively short drive time is a positive factor, offering quick access to emergency care. However, specialized medical services, such as those offered by major hospitals in Memphis, are further afield, requiring a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes via **Highway 51** and then either **Interstate 40** or **Interstate 22**. This longer commute time can be a significant barrier for individuals needing specialized care, particularly those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation options are limited in Stanton and the surrounding areas. There is no established public bus system serving the town directly. This lack of public transit significantly reduces the "Overall Health Score" for those who cannot drive, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to a personal vehicle. The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on other options, which may be less reliable or more expensive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for some residents, further impacting their ability to access healthcare. This inconsistency and cost factor diminish the "Overall Health Score."

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals requiring assistance. These services are crucial for those unable to drive themselves or utilize other transportation options. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and delays can occur, particularly during peak demand or in situations where resources are stretched thin.

The presence of healthcare facilities within Stanton itself is a critical factor. Currently, Stanton has a clinic that provides primary care services. This local access is a significant positive, offering convenient access to routine check-ups, preventative care, and treatment for common illnesses. However, the clinic's scope of services is limited, necessitating travel to other locations for specialized care.

The "Overall Health Score" is also influenced by the physical infrastructure of the town. Sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas are limited, making it challenging for those who prefer to walk or cycle to access healthcare. This lack of infrastructure further restricts transportation options and can negatively impact the health of the community.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation options is a crucial consideration. While ride-sharing services strive to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible vehicles is not always guaranteed. Medical transport services are generally equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations, but the coordination and availability of these services are essential. The lack of robust ADA-compliant transportation options detracts from the "Overall Health Score."

The economic factors within Stanton also play a role. The cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and repairs, can be a significant financial burden for many residents. This financial strain can limit their ability to access healthcare, particularly for those who must travel long distances for specialized care.

The demographics of Stanton, including the age distribution and prevalence of chronic diseases, also influence the "Overall Health Score." An aging population or a high prevalence of chronic conditions increases the demand for healthcare services, further emphasizing the importance of reliable and accessible transportation options.

Moving to Stanton requires careful consideration of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services can create barriers to care. While the presence of a local clinic is a positive factor, the need to travel to other locations for specialized services necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges.

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for Stanton, several initiatives could be implemented. Expanding the availability of public transportation, including bus routes that connect Stanton to nearby towns and cities, would significantly improve access for those without personal vehicles. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents or individuals with disabilities could also help to alleviate the financial burden of transportation.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as sidewalks and bike lanes, would encourage alternative modes of transportation and promote a healthier lifestyle. Collaborating with healthcare providers to establish mobile clinics or telehealth services could bring healthcare closer to the community and reduce the need for travel.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Stanton, TN (ZIP Code 38069) is therefore a mixed bag. While the proximity to Covington offers relatively quick access to emergency care, the lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access for some residents. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and services is crucial to improving the health and well-being of the Stanton community. The future "Overall Health Score" hinges on proactively addressing these transportation hurdles.