38122, Memphis, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38122, Memphis, Tennessee is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.93 percent of residents in 38122 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38122

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services significantly impacts health outcomes. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 38122 in Memphis, Tennessee, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities via various transportation methods. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this specific area.

The geographic layout of 38122, a primarily residential area, influences healthcare accessibility. Situated in East Memphis, residents benefit from proximity to several major medical centers, yet rely heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. Evaluating the transportation options available is essential for understanding the true ease of healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 38122. The area is strategically positioned near major thoroughfares, including Interstate 240 (I-240), a crucial loop around Memphis. This highway provides direct access to several hospitals and medical complexes. Residents can quickly reach the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) and Methodist University Hospital via I-240, with drive times typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Additionally, major arteries like Poplar Avenue and Walnut Grove Road serve as essential routes to healthcare providers. These roads, while often congested during peak hours, provide direct access to clinics, specialty practices, and urgent care facilities. Drive times to these facilities typically range from 5 to 15 minutes.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can significantly increase travel times, potentially delaying access to critical medical care. The condition of roads and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities also play a role in the overall accessibility equation.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides public transportation services in 38122. Several bus routes traverse the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, the frequency of service and route coverage are crucial factors influencing healthcare access.

Route 42, for example, serves the Poplar Avenue corridor, providing access to various medical facilities. Route 50 travels along Walnut Grove Road, connecting residents to healthcare providers in that area. While these routes offer some degree of healthcare access, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on MATA buses is essential for individuals with disabilities. All MATA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for riders with mobility impairments. However, the overall travel time using public transit can be significantly longer than driving, potentially deterring individuals from utilizing this mode of transportation, especially in urgent medical situations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option for accessing healthcare. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing the need for personal vehicles. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services in 38122 are important considerations.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance. For routine appointments, ride-sharing may be a convenient option. However, for individuals with limited financial resources, the cost could be a barrier.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are specifically designed to transport patients with medical needs. These services are typically used for non-emergency medical transport, such as trips to dialysis appointments or physical therapy sessions. The availability of these services and their coverage area in 38122 are important for individuals who require specialized transportation.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed above, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 38122 is moderately positive. Residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional alternatives.

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for 38122, several recommendations are pertinent. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of MATA bus routes, particularly during off-peak hours, would significantly improve healthcare access for residents who rely on public transportation. Investing in infrastructure improvements to reduce traffic congestion on major roads would also benefit all residents.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of ride-sharing and medical transport options, including information on costs and availability, would empower residents to make informed decisions about their transportation choices.

For individuals **moving to Memphis**, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Researching the proximity of healthcare facilities to potential residences and evaluating the available transportation options are crucial steps in ensuring healthcare access.

In conclusion, while 38122 offers decent healthcare access, there is room for improvement. By addressing the challenges related to transportation, the community can enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve the well-being of its residents.