38547, Brush Creek, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38547, Brush Creek, Tennessee is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.29 percent of residents in 38547 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.78 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38547 (Brush Creek, TN)

The overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. This analysis focuses on the ease of reaching healthcare facilities from ZIP code 38547, Brush Creek, Tennessee, considering various transportation options. We aim to assess the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical attention, ultimately contributing to an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the community's healthcare accessibility.

Brush Creek, nestled in DeKalb County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area's rural character, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer travel times and limited transportation choices. This write-up will examine the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of the healthcare commute for residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for residents of 38547 is likely personal vehicles. Navigating to healthcare facilities often involves driving on a network of roads, with travel times varying depending on the destination and time of day.

To reach the nearest hospital, **Ascension Saint Thomas DeKalb Hospital** in Smithville, residents typically utilize **Highway 70**, also known as Sparta Highway. The drive is usually under 15 minutes, a relatively convenient option for emergency situations or scheduled appointments.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to Cookeville, approximately 30 miles north. This journey involves taking **Highway 70** to **Interstate 40**. The drive time to Cookeville Regional Medical Center can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and can be a significant barrier for those with limited mobility or chronic health conditions.

Further afield, Nashville offers a wider array of healthcare options, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Reaching Nashville from Brush Creek involves a drive of approximately 80 miles, primarily via **Interstate 40**. This trip can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, making it less feasible for urgent medical needs. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options in DeKalb County are extremely limited. The county does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or cannot afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership.

The absence of a reliable public transit system creates a considerable disadvantage for those seeking healthcare. Residents must rely on other means, such as family, friends, or potentially expensive ride-sharing services. The lack of accessible public transportation is a significant factor in assessing the overall health score for 38547.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and cost can fluctuate. Residents in Brush Creek may experience longer wait times and higher fares compared to more urban areas. This can be a significant deterrent, particularly for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for those requiring assistance. Companies like **Air Methods** provide air ambulance services for critical care transport, while **Rural/Metro Ambulance** and **DeKalb County EMS** offer ground ambulance services for emergencies. These services are crucial for life-threatening situations but are often costly and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Air Methods:** Air ambulance services for critical care transport.
* **Rural/Metro Ambulance:** Ground ambulance services.
* **DeKalb County EMS:** Ground ambulance services.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for 38547 is directly influenced by the challenges associated with healthcare access. The limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a lower score.

For residents of Brush Creek, healthcare access is not always straightforward. The drive times to hospitals and specialized medical facilities can be substantial, particularly for those requiring regular appointments or experiencing medical emergencies. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options presents a significant barrier to accessing necessary care.

**Impact on the Community:**

The difficulties in accessing healthcare can have a cascading effect on the community's overall well-being. Delayed or missed appointments can lead to worsening health conditions, increased healthcare costs, and reduced quality of life. The challenges in transportation also affect preventive care, such as regular check-ups and screenings, which are crucial for early detection and treatment of diseases.

**Moving to Brush Creek and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Brush Creek, understanding the limitations of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential costs and challenges associated with reaching healthcare facilities. Factors such as age, health conditions, and financial resources should be carefully evaluated when making a decision about moving to the area.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 38547 reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. While the community benefits from the proximity of a local hospital, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant challenges. Addressing these challenges through initiatives such as exploring options for community transportation, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting healthcare providers in offering telehealth services could significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the well-being of the residents of Brush Creek. Improving healthcare access is a crucial step toward fostering a healthier and more vibrant community.