38506, Cookeville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38506, Cookeville, Tennessee is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.90 percent of residents in 38506 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cookeville Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 38506 (Cookeville, TN)

The journey to optimal health involves more than just a doctor's visit; it encompasses the ease and accessibility of reaching healthcare providers. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 38506, Cookeville, Tennessee, evaluating the overall health score based on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Cookeville or seeking to improve their healthcare access.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access within 38506 lies in the geographic reality of Cookeville. Sprawling across a significant area, the city necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of residents. The health score, therefore, is heavily influenced by the efficiency of vehicular travel. The main arteries, including Interstate 40 (I-40), Highway 111, and Willow Avenue, are critical to understanding commute times.

For those residing in the eastern sections of 38506, accessing healthcare facilities, such as Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC) situated on West 4th Street, often involves navigating through residential areas before merging onto Willow Avenue or directly onto I-40. Peak traffic hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly impact travel times. A drive from the easternmost reaches could easily take 20-30 minutes, especially if encountering congestion near the I-40 interchange.

Conversely, residents in the western parts of the ZIP code may find themselves closer to CRMC, potentially reducing drive times to 10-15 minutes. However, this proximity can be offset by traffic bottlenecks along Willow Avenue, particularly around the commercial districts. The health score, therefore, fluctuates based on the individual's location within the ZIP code and the time of day.

Public transit options in Cookeville present a less robust alternative. The city's transit system, operated by the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA), offers limited routes and schedules. While the specific route numbers and their coverage areas within 38506 require further investigation, the system’s overall accessibility is a significant factor.

The limited scope of public transit impacts the health score negatively. The absence of frequent and widespread routes forces many residents to rely on personal vehicles, creating a barrier for those without access to a car or unable to drive. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on these buses is essential. Ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities is paramount to improving the overall health score. Without readily available public transportation, the health score suffers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution to transportation challenges. Their availability within 38506 is a crucial factor. While these services provide a degree of flexibility, their cost can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent healthcare appointments. The health score considers the economic accessibility of ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services also play a role in the overall health score. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, such as those that provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles, can bridge the gap for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. The availability of these services, their coverage area within 38506, and their pricing structure all contribute to the overall health score.

The health score is not solely determined by commute times and transportation options. The availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP code is also a crucial factor. The concentration of medical facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics, directly impacts the ease of access. A high density of healthcare providers can mitigate the negative impact of longer commute times.

Additionally, the health score must consider the overall health of the community. Factors such as the prevalence of chronic diseases, the availability of preventative care, and the socioeconomic status of the population all influence the health score. A community with a higher prevalence of chronic diseases may require more frequent healthcare visits, further emphasizing the importance of accessible transportation.

Moving to Cookeville requires careful consideration of these factors. Prospective residents should research the proximity of healthcare providers to potential residences, assess the availability of transportation options, and evaluate the overall health of the community. The health score is not a static number; it is a dynamic reflection of the interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and the health of the community.

The health score for 38506, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge, the presence of CRMC and the potential for ride-sharing services offer some mitigation. The limited public transit options and the geographic spread of the ZIP code necessitate a careful evaluation of individual circumstances.

Improving the health score for 38506 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transit, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the development of healthcare facilities within the community are all critical steps. Furthermore, initiatives that address the socioeconomic disparities within the population and promote preventative care are essential for improving the overall health of the community.

The health score is a vital indicator of the community's well-being. It is a call to action, urging stakeholders to collaborate and create a healthier and more accessible environment for all residents of 38506. The ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances, has equitable access to the healthcare they need.