38553, Clarkrange, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38553, Clarkrange, Tennessee is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.85 percent of residents in 38553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cumberland Medical Center with a distance of 18.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clarkrange, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38553)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Clarkrange, Tennessee (ZIP code 38553), a rural community nestled in the heart of the Volunteer State, the journey to receive medical attention presents a unique set of challenges. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Clarkrange, as it directly impacts their overall well-being.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Clarkrange is the geographical isolation and limited infrastructure. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, necessitating travel. This immediately impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

The primary roadways serving Clarkrange include US-127 and TN-85. US-127, a major north-south artery, provides the most direct route to Cookeville, the nearest city offering a comprehensive range of healthcare services. TN-85, a state route, offers a more local network, connecting Clarkrange to surrounding communities and providing alternative, though often slower, routes to healthcare facilities.

Drive times to essential healthcare services are a significant consideration. Reaching Cookeville Regional Medical Center, the closest full-service hospital, typically requires a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic and road conditions. This time can be extended during inclement weather, potentially delaying critical medical interventions. Specialty clinics and physician offices in Cookeville add to the travel time, further impacting healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Clarkrange are extremely limited. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides demand-response transportation services, but these are primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While UCHRA offers door-to-door service, it often requires advance booking and may involve significant wait times. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility challenges, but the limited resources of UCHRA can create challenges in meeting the needs of the community. This scarcity of public transit significantly lowers the Overall Health Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cookeville but their presence in Clarkrange is inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver density and demand, making them unreliable for scheduled medical appointments. This inconsistency further exacerbates the transportation challenges, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. However, these services can be expensive and are often reserved for urgent or medically necessary situations. The cost of these services can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for low-income individuals.

The Overall Health Score for Clarkrange is negatively impacted by the lack of readily available transportation options. The dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and unreliable ride-sharing services, creates significant challenges for residents seeking healthcare. The long drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly for those with mobility limitations or chronic conditions, contribute to a lower Overall Health Score.

The impact of these transportation challenges extends beyond physical access to healthcare. The time and effort required to travel to appointments can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. This, in turn, can negatively impact the overall health and well-being of the community. The stress of navigating transportation barriers can also contribute to mental health issues.

The lack of easily accessible healthcare also influences the economic vitality of the community. Individuals may be unable to work or participate in community activities due to transportation limitations, which can lead to a decrease in overall productivity and economic growth.

For those considering moving to Clarkrange, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and consider the availability of transportation options. Individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities or ensure access to reliable transportation services.

The Overall Health Score for Clarkrange can be improved through several strategies. Increased investment in public transportation, particularly the expansion of UCHRA services, would significantly improve healthcare access for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, the development of telehealth services and the expansion of mobile healthcare clinics could bring healthcare services directly to the community, reducing the need for long-distance travel. Promoting community-based initiatives that support carpooling and shared transportation can also help mitigate the transportation challenges.

Addressing the transportation barriers to healthcare in Clarkrange is a complex undertaking. It requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and private businesses. By prioritizing healthcare access and investing in innovative transportation solutions, Clarkrange can improve its Overall Health Score and create a healthier, more vibrant community for all its residents. The current score reflects the limitations, highlighting the need for focused attention and investment to improve the lives of those in ZIP Code 38553.