38585, Spencer, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38585, Spencer, Tennessee is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.70 percent of residents in 38585 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital with a distance of 14.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Spencer, TN (ZIP Code 38585)

The overall health score for residents of Spencer, Tennessee (ZIP code 38585) reflects a complex interplay of factors, with transportation and healthcare access forming the cornerstones. This assessment considers the challenges and opportunities presented by the rural landscape, impacting residents' ability to reach essential medical services. Moving to Spencer, TN, demands careful consideration of these logistical hurdles.

Spencer, nestled in the heart of Van Buren County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The town's remote location, coupled with limited public transportation, creates a significant barrier to healthcare access. The overall health score, therefore, is significantly influenced by the transportation options available and the distances required to reach medical facilities.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. Driving is often the only viable option for accessing healthcare. The drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are crucial in determining the overall health score. These times are often extended due to the winding roads and the rural nature of the area.

The main thoroughfares impacting travel are **Highway 111**, **Highway 70**, and local roads like **Spencer Highway**. Accessing larger medical centers in Cookeville or McMinnville requires navigating these routes, each presenting its own challenges. Traffic, while generally light, can be impacted by weather conditions, especially during winter months, further complicating travel.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit options are severely limited. Van Buren County does not have a dedicated public transportation system. The absence of regular bus routes significantly restricts access to healthcare for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This lack of public transportation negatively impacts the overall health score.

The nearest public transit options are in surrounding counties, often requiring a significant drive to reach the pickup point. These options may have limited service hours and infrequent routes, further exacerbating the challenges. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any available public transit options is also a significant concern, limiting access for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, may be available, but their presence in Spencer is inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver presence and demand, potentially leading to delays or unavailability when healthcare needs arise. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for emergencies and scheduled appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, especially for non-emergency situations. The response time for emergency services is also a critical factor, potentially impacted by the distance to the nearest hospital.

The nearest hospitals are located in Cookeville (approximately 30-45 minutes away) and McMinnville (approximately 30-40 minutes away). These drive times are estimates and can fluctuate depending on traffic and road conditions. Specialty clinics and urgent care facilities are also located in these towns, further increasing the need for reliable transportation.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within Spencer itself is limited. Residents often need to travel to neighboring towns for specialized medical care. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options, adding to the overall stress and complexity of managing healthcare needs.

The overall health score for residents of 38585 is also impacted by the socioeconomic factors. Income levels, insurance coverage, and access to resources all play a role in determining healthcare access. Individuals with lower incomes may struggle to afford transportation costs or to take time off work for medical appointments.

The physical environment also presents challenges. The hilly terrain and winding roads can make driving difficult, especially for elderly residents or those with mobility issues. Weather conditions, such as snow and ice, can further impede travel during winter months. These factors contribute to the overall health score.

The healthcare infrastructure within Spencer is limited. While there may be local clinics or medical offices, the range of services available is often restricted. Residents may need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care, diagnostic testing, or surgical procedures. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation.

The healthcare access landscape in Spencer, TN, highlights the critical link between transportation and health outcomes. The absence of robust public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to accessing healthcare. The overall health score is negatively impacted by these challenges.

The overall health score for Spencer, TN, residents is also impacted by the availability of preventive care services. Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations are essential for maintaining good health. The challenges in accessing healthcare can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially resulting in preventable health problems.

The overall health score is further influenced by the availability of mental health services. Access to mental healthcare is crucial for overall well-being. The limited availability of mental health professionals in Spencer and the challenges in accessing services in neighboring towns can negatively impact the mental health of residents.

The overall health score for residents of Spencer, TN, is a reflection of the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and socioeconomic factors. While the beauty and tranquility of the rural landscape are appealing, the practical challenges of accessing healthcare must be carefully considered.

Moving to Spencer, TN, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation needs. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical transportation. Understanding the limitations of healthcare access is crucial for making informed decisions.

The overall health score serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the transportation and healthcare access challenges faced by residents of Spencer, TN. Improving public transportation options, expanding healthcare services, and increasing access to ride-sharing or medical transport can significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the well-being of the community.