38551, Celina, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38551, Celina, Tennessee is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.55 percent of residents in 38551 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Livingston Regional Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Celina, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38551)

Considering a move to the charming town of Celina, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38551)? Beyond the allure of small-town living, understanding the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount. This comprehensive analysis evaluates the **transportation** landscape and its impact on your overall health score, focusing on the accessibility of medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options (or lack thereof), ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to provide a clear picture for prospective residents.

Celina, nestled in Clay County, presents a unique challenge: rural charm often translates to longer travel times for essential services. The absence of readily available public transit and the vast distances between medical facilities necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles. This reliance significantly shapes the **transportation** equation and, consequently, your health score.

The primary arteries for navigating Celina and its surrounding areas are Highway 53 and Highway 52. Highway 53 serves as the main north-south corridor, connecting Celina to communities like Byrdstown and Cookeville. Highway 52, running east-west, links Celina to Lafayette and Tompkinsville, Kentucky. These roads, while scenic, can experience delays due to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The closest hospital, Cookeville Regional Medical Center, located in Cookeville, is approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive via Highway 53. This drive, while manageable under normal conditions, can be significantly extended during inclement weather or peak traffic hours. Other healthcare options, such as specialized clinics or larger hospitals in Nashville, require significantly longer travel times, often exceeding two hours.

Public transit options are virtually nonexistent in Celina. The absence of a dedicated bus system or other forms of public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. This lack of options disproportionately affects individuals who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive. The absence of public transit necessitates a complete dependence on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Celina area, but their availability is limited compared to urban centers. Demand is often low, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher fares. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is questionable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This presents a challenge for those needing consistent and predictable **transportation** to their healthcare providers.

Medical transport services are available in Celina, offering a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other forms of **transportation**. Companies like Rural Metro Ambulance and other private ambulance services provide both emergency and non-emergency medical transport. These services, while essential, can be expensive, and their availability may be limited depending on the specific needs of the patient and the service’s capacity.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Celina, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38551) is moderately impacted by the **transportation** limitations. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges.

This situation is further complicated by the demographics of the area. Celina and Clay County have a higher proportion of elderly residents, a population segment often more vulnerable and reliant on accessible healthcare. The lack of readily available **transportation** options exacerbates the challenges faced by this demographic.

For individuals considering **moving to Celina**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those with chronic health conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the potential impact of longer travel times and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options.

The potential for delays due to traffic, weather, or the availability of ride-sharing services should be factored into healthcare planning. Proactive measures, such as establishing relationships with local medical transport providers or exploring options for telehealth consultations, can help mitigate the challenges posed by the **transportation** landscape.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Celina is further influenced by the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth can bridge the gap created by **transportation** limitations, allowing residents to access medical consultations and follow-up care remotely. The availability of reliable internet access and the willingness of healthcare providers to offer telehealth services are crucial components of this equation.

Furthermore, the availability of preventative care services, such as regular check-ups and screenings, plays a vital role in maintaining overall health. The ability to access these services in a timely and convenient manner is essential for early detection and treatment of health issues. The longer travel times to healthcare facilities in Celina may potentially impact the frequency of preventative care visits.

The health score is also affected by the availability of pharmacies and the ease of obtaining prescriptions. The location and operating hours of local pharmacies, as well as the efficiency of prescription fulfillment, can influence the overall health and well-being of residents.

The challenges presented by the **transportation** landscape in Celina underscore the importance of community initiatives aimed at improving **healthcare access**. These initiatives could include exploring the feasibility of establishing a local public transit system, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized **transportation** for medical appointments, or advocating for expanded telehealth services.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Celina is a complex equation, influenced by a multitude of factors. While the town offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle, the **transportation** limitations necessitate careful planning and proactive measures to ensure access to timely and appropriate medical care. Prospective residents should carefully weigh these factors when considering **moving to Celina**, ensuring they can meet their healthcare needs effectively.