38574, Monterey, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38574, Monterey, Tennessee is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.11 percent of residents in 38574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cumberland Medical Center with a distance of 17.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38574 (Monterey, TN)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Monterey, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38574), necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare access, with a particular focus on transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Monterey and its surrounding areas. The goal is to paint a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities that residents face in accessing crucial medical services.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Monterey is the practicality of transportation. Situated in Putnam County, the town's relative isolation significantly impacts the availability of specialized medical care. Residents often find themselves reliant on personal vehicles, making drive times a critical factor in determining the overall health score.

The most direct route to larger healthcare facilities outside of Monterey is via **Interstate 40 (I-40)**. This major east-west thoroughfare offers relatively efficient access to hospitals and specialists in Cookeville, approximately 15 miles west. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. However, relying on I-40 means dealing with potential delays during peak hours or inclement weather.

Within Monterey, residents primarily navigate using local roads, including **Highway 70** and **Highway 62**. These routes, while offering convenient access to local businesses and services, may not be as efficient for reaching specialized medical facilities. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can further complicate travel.

Public transportation options in Monterey are limited, which presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. Putnam County does not currently operate a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the health score, particularly for elderly residents, those with disabilities, or individuals who cannot afford a car. The absence of accessible public transit also restricts the ability of residents to travel to appointments, reducing healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further impacting the overall health score. This dependence on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive, creating another hurdle for healthcare access.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, options are available, but they come with their own set of considerations. Ambulance services are readily accessible for emergency situations, providing immediate transport to the nearest hospital. However, non-emergency medical transport services, which are crucial for scheduled appointments and treatments, may be more limited.

Medical transport companies, such as local ambulance services or specialized providers, offer non-emergency transportation, but their availability and cost can vary. The distance to larger medical centers and the lack of readily available transportation options contribute to potential delays in receiving necessary care. This can have a negative impact on health outcomes, particularly for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

The overall health score for residents of Monterey, TN (38574) is significantly influenced by the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access. While the town offers local medical facilities, the lack of robust public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to accessing specialized care.

The drive times to larger medical centers, such as those in Cookeville, are manageable, but depend on the efficiency of I-40. The absence of reliable public transportation significantly impacts the health score, particularly for individuals without access to a car. This lack of access underscores the importance of addressing the transportation challenges in Monterey.

For individuals considering moving to Monterey, a thorough understanding of these transportation limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the local transportation landscape. This includes considering the availability of personal vehicles, the potential costs of ride-sharing services, and the limitations of medical transport options.

Improving the overall health score in Monterey necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring the feasibility of establishing a local public transit system, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting awareness of medical transport options. Furthermore, efforts to improve the condition of local roads and ensure their accessibility during inclement weather are essential.

Addressing these transportation challenges is paramount to improving healthcare access and enhancing the overall health and well-being of Monterey residents. Investing in transportation infrastructure and services will not only improve healthcare access but also contribute to a more vibrant and sustainable community. The ability to easily access healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring that all residents of Monterey have this right is a vital step towards a healthier future.