38316, Bradford, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38316, Bradford, Tennessee is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.88 percent of residents in 38316 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Tennessee Healthcare Milan Hospital with a distance of 10.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bradford, TN (ZIP Code 38316)

The health and well-being of a community are intrinsically linked to its accessibility to healthcare. In Bradford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38316), this connection is forged through a complex network of transportation options, each impacting the overall health score of its residents. This write-up delves into the realities of navigating healthcare access in Bradford, offering a comprehensive assessment of the available transportation landscape and its implications. For those considering moving to Bradford, understanding these nuances is crucial.

The health score, in this context, is not a single numerical value but a composite assessment considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. It reflects the ease or difficulty with which residents can reach essential medical services, ultimately influencing their ability to maintain optimal health.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Bradford is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Bradford's location in Gibson County necessitates reliance on roadways for reaching medical facilities. The town is strategically positioned near major thoroughfares, offering relatively straightforward routes to healthcare providers in neighboring cities.

Traveling south on **Highway 45**, residents can reach Jackson, Tennessee, a regional healthcare hub. This route provides access to Jackson-Madison County General Hospital, several specialist clinics, and various outpatient services. The drive time to Jackson averages around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey is generally manageable for most residents.

Heading east on **Highway 54** offers a shorter route to Trenton, Tennessee. While Trenton boasts a smaller selection of medical facilities, including a local clinic and some specialized services, the drive time is significantly reduced, typically taking around 10-15 minutes. This is a valuable option for urgent care needs or routine appointments.

Smaller, less-traveled roads like **Highway 104** and local routes provide alternative paths, but they may be less direct and potentially slower, especially during peak hours. These routes are best suited for those familiar with the area and willing to navigate less-trafficked roads.

Public transportation options in Bradford are limited. There is no formal public bus system operating within the town or connecting it directly to major healthcare facilities. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This absence significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

While the lack of formal public transit is a concern, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Bradford, though their availability may be limited compared to larger urban areas. The reliability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further impacting healthcare access.

Medical transport services are available in the region, primarily for patients requiring specialized care or those unable to travel independently. These services, such as ambulance providers and non-emergency medical transportation companies, offer crucial assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing transport to distant healthcare facilities. However, these services often come with significant costs, which can be a burden for many residents.

For those considering moving to Bradford, understanding the limitations of transportation options is paramount. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of proximity to healthcare providers and the potential challenges of navigating roadways, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those who are unable to drive.

The overall health score for Bradford, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While relatively short drive times to nearby healthcare facilities offer a degree of accessibility, the absence of robust public transit and the limitations of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for certain segments of the population. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential costs associated with medical transport services can disproportionately impact vulnerable populations.

The availability of healthcare access is a critical factor in determining the quality of life for residents. In Bradford, the ability to reach healthcare providers is largely dependent on personal vehicle ownership and the willingness to travel. The lack of alternative transportation options underscores the need for community-based initiatives to improve healthcare access.

The community could benefit from exploring options such as subsidized transportation programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities, partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or the development of a demand-response transportation system to connect residents with healthcare facilities. These initiatives could significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the well-being of the community.

The existing landscape presents a challenge, but also an opportunity. By acknowledging the limitations of the current transportation infrastructure and actively pursuing solutions, Bradford can improve healthcare access for all its residents. This commitment to improving transportation and healthcare access will not only enhance the overall health score but also make Bradford a more attractive and supportive community for everyone.

The integration of transportation and healthcare access is fundamental to the well-being of any community. In Bradford, the current situation necessitates a critical assessment of the available options and the development of strategies to address the existing gaps. This proactive approach will ensure that all residents have the opportunity to access the healthcare services they need, leading to a healthier and more vibrant community.