Overall Health Score

38501, Cookeville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 38501, Cookeville, Tennessee

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38501, Cookeville, Tennessee is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.10 percent of residents in 38501 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cookeville Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.27 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 38501, Cookeville, Tennessee

Overall Health Score 22
People Score 4
Provider Score 58
Hospital Score 15
Travel Score 73

Closest Hospital - COOKEVILLE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 38501 Cookeville Tennessee
No Cars 1.48 1.39 1.84
1 Car 18.71 17.55 17.99
2 Cars 42.51 41.47 40.14
3 or More Cars 37.30 39.59 40.03

Vehicular Access in 38501, Cookeville, Tennessee

Travel Score Review of 38501, Cookeville, Tennessee

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cookeville (ZIP Code 38501)

The pursuit of optimal well-being is intrinsically linked to accessible healthcare. For residents of Cookeville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38501), this connection is forged through a complex web of transportation options, each impacting the overall health score. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a nuanced perspective for those considering moving to Cookeville or seeking to understand the healthcare landscape.

The central challenge in assessing healthcare access within 38501 lies in its geographical layout. Cookeville, a charming town nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, presents a landscape of rolling hills and sprawling distances. This characteristic necessitates a careful evaluation of transportation options, as they directly influence the ability to reach medical facilities promptly and efficiently.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

For many, the private vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option, however, is contingent on several factors. The primary arteries serving 38501 are Interstate 40 (I-40) and Highway 111. These roadways offer relatively quick access to major medical centers, including Cookeville Regional Medical Center, the primary healthcare provider in the area.

Driving to Cookeville Regional Medical Center from most residential areas within 38501 typically takes between 5 to 15 minutes, a commendable timeframe for urgent care needs. Residents residing further from the city center, particularly those in more rural areas, may experience slightly extended drive times. Peak traffic hours, particularly during weekday commutes, can add a few minutes to these travel times.

Navigating beyond Cookeville for specialized care necessitates longer drives. Accessing larger medical centers in Nashville, approximately 80 miles west via I-40, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Similarly, Knoxville, located approximately 100 miles east, is reachable within a similar timeframe. These extended travel times underscore the importance of local healthcare options and the potential strain on individuals requiring frequent specialized care.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Developing Resource:**

Public transportation in Cookeville, while present, is not yet a fully developed system. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides a demand-response transit service, primarily catering to seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, however, is not a fixed-route system and requires advance booking, limiting its spontaneity.

The UCHRA's transit options, while crucial for those who cannot drive, are not easily accessible to the general population. The service's limited operational hours and the need for pre-arranged rides can pose a significant challenge for individuals requiring immediate medical attention or those with unpredictable schedules. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a positive aspect, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with mobility limitations.

The future of public transportation in Cookeville holds promise. As the city grows, there is a growing need for expanded public transit options, including fixed-route bus services. Such improvements would significantly enhance healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Their availability in Cookeville provides a convenient option for accessing healthcare facilities, especially during evenings and weekends when public transit options are limited.

The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a barrier for some. The fares can fluctuate based on demand and distance, potentially making it a less affordable option for frequent healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services might be limited during peak hours or in more rural areas, requiring careful planning.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by ambulance providers and specialized non-emergency medical transportation companies, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services are crucial for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transportation to and from medical appointments. The availability of these services within 38501 is generally adequate, but the cost can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often necessary.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 38501 is a complex equation. While the presence of a major medical center and relatively short drive times to local facilities are positive factors, the limitations of public transit and the potential cost barriers of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges.

For those considering moving to Cookeville, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences is crucial. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent specialized care should carefully consider the drive times to larger medical centers and the availability of reliable transportation options.

The development of a more robust public transit system and the expansion of affordable ride-sharing options would significantly improve the overall health score for healthcare access in 38501. These improvements would not only benefit current residents but also make Cookeville a more attractive and accessible place to live for those seeking quality healthcare.

**Conclusion: A Call for Continued Improvement:**

The healthcare landscape in 38501 is a dynamic environment. While the current infrastructure provides reasonable access to healthcare, continuous improvement is essential. Addressing the limitations of public transit, exploring innovative transportation solutions, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport services will be vital in enhancing the overall health score and fostering a healthier community. The future of healthcare access in Cookeville depends on the ongoing commitment to these improvements, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need, when they need it.

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Health Scores Near 38501, Cookeville, Tennessee

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