38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.00 percent of residents in 38552 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Chestnut Mound (ZIP Code 38552)

The health and well-being of residents in Chestnut Mound, Tennessee, hinges significantly on their ability to access necessary healthcare services. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for the ZIP code 38552, focusing on the critical element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture for anyone considering moving to Chestnut Mound and assessing their healthcare needs.

The Overall Health Score for 38552 is impacted by a confluence of factors, but transportation emerges as a primary determinant. The rural nature of Chestnut Mound and its surrounding areas presents unique challenges. Limited public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate a careful evaluation of commuting options. This write-up aims to provide a clear understanding of these challenges and opportunities.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery serving Chestnut Mound is State Route 70, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on Highway 70 will take you towards Cookeville, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare facilities. Westbound travel on Highway 70 leads towards Carthage and Smith County, which also offers some medical resources. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic, which is generally light in this area, but can be affected by seasonal events and weather conditions.

For residents seeking specialized care or emergency services, Cookeville is the likely destination. The drive to Cookeville Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the exact location within 38552 and traffic conditions. The route primarily involves Highway 70, with potential access via secondary roads like Lancaster Highway and Chestnut Mound Road.

Traveling to Nashville, approximately 75 miles west, requires a longer commute. This trip primarily utilizes Highway 70 and then potentially Interstate 40. The drive time to Nashville's major hospitals, such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center or Saint Thomas Health, can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Access to healthcare facilities in Carthage, the county seat of Smith County, is generally quicker. The drive to Smith County Health and Rehabilitation Center is approximately 20-30 minutes via Highway 70. This proximity offers a more immediate option for certain medical needs.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in 38552 are extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The lack of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. This is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those who cannot drive.

The availability of public transit is nearly nonexistent within Chestnut Mound. The nearest public transit services might be available in Cookeville, but the lack of direct routes and the distance between Chestnut Mound and Cookeville severely limit the practicality of using public transportation for healthcare appointments.

Furthermore, the absence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant public transit options in the immediate vicinity exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. This necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, which may be less accessible and more expensive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in rural areas like Chestnut Mound can be inconsistent. The response times for ride-sharing services may be prolonged, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can pose a significant challenge for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to healthcare appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services often require advance booking and may involve varying costs depending on the distance and level of care required.

Some prominent medical transport brands operating in the area include, but are not limited to, First Medical Transportation, and American Medical Response (AMR). These services typically offer transportation for individuals with mobility limitations, those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and those who need assistance during transport.

The cost of medical transport can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes. It is essential to explore insurance coverage and potential financial assistance programs to mitigate these expenses.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The Overall Health Score for 38552 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score is negatively impacted by the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing availability. However, the presence of medical transport services and the relatively short drive times to nearby healthcare facilities in Carthage and Cookeville offer some mitigation.

The Overall Health Score for 38552 is therefore moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the accessibility is heavily reliant on personal vehicles or potentially expensive medical transport options. The lack of public transit options and the potential inconsistencies in ride-sharing availability pose challenges, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

**Considerations for Moving to Chestnut Mound:**

For individuals considering moving to Chestnut Mound, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the challenges associated with accessing healthcare services.

Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those who anticipate frequent healthcare appointments should consider the drive times to Cookeville and other medical centers. The availability and cost of medical transport services should also be factored into the decision-making process.

Ultimately, the Overall Health Score for 38552 highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration when assessing healthcare access. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents specific challenges. The ability to navigate these challenges will directly impact an individual's overall health and well-being.