38253, Rives, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38253, Rives, Tennessee is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.15 percent of residents in 38253 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital Union City with a distance of 6.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38253 (Rives, Tennessee)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Rives, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38253), focusing on the crucial factor of transportation to medical facilities. We will delve into the realities of commuting to healthcare appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This analysis aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for those residing in this rural community, particularly those considering moving to Rives.

The geographical isolation of Rives, a small town nestled in Obion County, presents a significant hurdle to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Union City, approximately 10 miles away. While this distance may seem manageable, it’s essential to consider the transportation infrastructure and the individual needs of residents, especially those with mobility limitations or chronic conditions. The Overall Health Score, therefore, will reflect the ease or difficulty of navigating the transportation landscape to reach vital medical services.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in and around Rives. The most direct route to Union City involves traveling on **Highway 22** north. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. Secondary routes, such as **Highway 189** and various county roads, offer alternative options, but these roads may be less direct and could involve navigating less-than-ideal road conditions. The drive to Union City typically takes 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions, but this can fluctuate.

The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Obion County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive bus network. This severely limits the options for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The lack of public transportation creates a barrier to accessing essential medical care and contributes to the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Union City area, but their presence in Rives is less certain. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Residents may face longer wait times or higher fares compared to urban areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled medical appointments is also a concern, as unforeseen delays can easily disrupt the schedule. The unpredictability of this transportation option further impacts the Overall Health Score.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily designed for urgent medical needs and are not typically used for routine appointments. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are limited in this area. The availability of NEMT services is crucial for individuals who cannot drive and lack access to other transportation options.

The nearest major medical facilities are in Union City, including the Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union City. This hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient care, and specialized medical departments. Access to these services is vital for the health and well-being of Rives residents. Beyond Union City, more specialized care might necessitate travel to larger cities like Jackson, Tennessee, which is approximately 60 miles away. This longer distance presents additional transportation challenges, including increased travel time and potential financial burdens.

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Rives, Tennessee, is significantly impacted by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the scarcity of NEMT services all contribute to a lower score. Individuals without access to a car face significant obstacles in accessing healthcare, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, exacerbation of existing health conditions, and reduced quality of life.

For those considering moving to Rives, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of resources to meet those needs. Individuals with mobility limitations, chronic illnesses, or limited financial resources should pay particular attention to the challenges associated with healthcare access. The lack of readily available transportation options may necessitate careful planning, reliance on family and friends, or exploring alternative solutions.

The economic implications of transportation limitations should also be considered. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential ride-sharing fares can represent a significant financial burden, particularly for low-income residents. These costs can further exacerbate health disparities and limit access to essential medical care.

The Overall Health Score also reflects the importance of community initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. Efforts to establish or expand public transportation options, promote ride-sharing services, or increase the availability of NEMT services would significantly improve the score. Community-based programs that provide transportation assistance to vulnerable populations can also play a vital role in bridging the gap in healthcare access.

The health of a community is not solely determined by the availability of medical facilities but also by the ease with which residents can reach those facilities. In Rives, Tennessee, the transportation challenges pose a significant obstacle to healthcare access, impacting the Overall Health Score. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, community-based initiatives, and the promotion of accessible healthcare services is essential to improving the health and well-being of Rives residents. The lack of readily available and reliable transportation options represents a significant barrier to healthcare access in this rural community.