38220, Atwood, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38220, Atwood, Tennessee is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.19 percent of residents in 38220 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Tennessee Healthcare Milan Hospital with a distance of 6.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Atwood, TN (ZIP Code 38220)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Atwood, Tennessee, nestled within the 38220 ZIP code, this access hinges significantly on transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the availability, efficiency, and accessibility of various transportation modes to healthcare facilities. It offers a nuanced understanding for potential residents *moving to Atwood*, highlighting the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive assessment, evaluating factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. It aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking medical care in and around Atwood.

**Driving Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many Atwood residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The efficiency of this mode is heavily influenced by the road network and distance to medical providers. Atwood is situated in Carroll County, and the nearest significant healthcare hub is often found in Huntingdon, the county seat.

Traveling to Huntingdon typically involves navigating local roads and State Route 77. The drive itself, under normal traffic conditions, can be completed in approximately 15-20 minutes. This is a relatively manageable commute, offering reasonable access to essential medical services.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Jackson, Tennessee, which houses more comprehensive medical facilities. This journey necessitates traversing US-45, a major thoroughfare connecting Atwood to Jackson. The drive to Jackson can take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location of the healthcare facility.

The availability of a personal vehicle, therefore, significantly impacts healthcare access. Those without reliable transportation face a more significant hurdle in obtaining timely medical attention. The condition of local roads, while generally well-maintained, can also play a role, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Atwood are limited. Carroll County, like many rural areas, does not boast an extensive public transit system. This lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, particularly the elderly, disabled, and low-income residents.

The absence of readily available public transit underscores the importance of other options, such as ride-sharing services or relying on family and friends for transportation. The lack of public transit can impact healthcare access.

While no fixed-route bus services are available in Atwood, the Carroll County Senior Center may offer transportation services for seniors to medical appointments. The availability and frequency of these services vary, and they may not be accessible to all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

In the absence of robust public transit, ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport become crucial components of the healthcare access equation. While ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft are available in Jackson, their presence in Atwood itself is less certain. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or requiring specialized assistance, play a vital role. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services.

These services are particularly important for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on family members for transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some residents, potentially impacting their ability to access necessary medical care.

**Accessibility Considerations: Navigating Barriers**

Beyond the availability of transportation, accessibility considerations are crucial. This includes the presence of ADA-compliant features on any available public transit or medical transport vehicles. The ability of individuals with disabilities to access healthcare facilities is paramount.

Furthermore, the physical accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is essential. Ensuring that buildings are equipped with ramps, elevators, and other accommodations is critical for creating an inclusive healthcare environment.

**The Impact of Moving to Atwood**

For individuals *moving to Atwood*, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning for healthcare needs. Prospective residents should factor in drive times to medical facilities, assess their transportation needs, and explore the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Those considering *moving to Atwood* should also research the accessibility features of local healthcare facilities and inquire about available support services for individuals with disabilities. Understanding these factors will enable prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure their well-being within the community.

**Overall Health Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Atwood, TN (38220) reflects a mixed picture. The primary mode of transportation, personal vehicles, provides relatively efficient access to healthcare in Huntingdon. However, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services introduce challenges, especially for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

The score is not a simple pass or fail. It acknowledges the strengths and weaknesses of the current transportation infrastructure. The score emphasizes the importance of individual planning, the potential need for alternative transportation solutions, and the necessity of advocating for improved healthcare access for all Atwood residents.

The score underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in Atwood. This includes exploring opportunities to expand public transit options, supporting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring that healthcare facilities are fully accessible to all members of the community.