38589, Wilder, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38589, Wilder, Tennessee is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

8.57 percent of residents in 38589 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Livingston Regional Hospital with a distance of 13.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wilder, TN (ZIP Code 38589)

The picturesque town of Wilder, Tennessee, nestled within the Cumberland Plateau, offers a serene lifestyle. However, a crucial aspect of well-being, **healthcare access**, demands careful consideration for prospective residents. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for accessing medical services from ZIP Code 38589, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on timely and convenient care.

The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It acknowledges the geographical challenges inherent in rural settings, weighing them against the availability of essential healthcare facilities. The higher the score, the more readily accessible healthcare is deemed, factoring in both speed and ease of access.

**Drive Times: The Foundation of Access**

For residents of Wilder, the primary method of accessing healthcare is by personal vehicle. The closest significant medical facilities are in Crossville, approximately 30 miles east, and Cookeville, around 40 miles west. The journey to Crossville typically involves a drive along Highway 127, a winding road that offers scenic views but can be slow-going, especially during inclement weather. The estimated drive time, under ideal conditions, is around 45 minutes to an hour.

Reaching Cookeville necessitates navigating Highway 70, a major thoroughfare that offers a more direct route. The drive time to Cookeville, home to a regional medical center, is generally around an hour, although traffic and road conditions can extend this. These drive times, while not excessively long, necessitate careful planning, particularly in emergencies.

The availability of ambulances is crucial in this context. Putnam County, where Cookeville is located, has a robust emergency medical services (EMS) system. However, response times from Wilder can vary depending on the location of the emergency and the availability of ambulances. The remoteness of the area can impact these critical response times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Wilder are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system serving the town or the surrounding rural areas. This lack of public **transportation** significantly restricts the mobility of those who do not drive, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a personal vehicle.

While the absence of fixed-route public transit poses a challenge, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) may offer some demand-response transit services. These services, often requiring advance booking, may provide limited access to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns. However, the availability and frequency of these services are not guaranteed, and they may not be suitable for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cookeville and Crossville, but their presence in Wilder is less consistent. Availability is dependent on driver density, which is generally lower in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and may involve longer wait times and higher costs.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients requiring non-emergency medical transport, offer a more specialized solution. These services, often provided by private companies, can transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and availability may be limited.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public **transportation** systems and facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of established public transit in Wilder creates a barrier to **healthcare access** for those with mobility limitations.

While ride-sharing services are expected to comply with ADA regulations, the availability of accessible vehicles may be limited, particularly in rural areas. Medical **transportation** services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but the cost and availability of these services must be considered.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Providers**

The availability of healthcare providers within Wilder itself is limited. Residents typically rely on medical facilities in Cookeville and Crossville. Cookeville Regional Medical Center, a comprehensive facility, offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, specialized medical treatments, and surgical procedures.

Crossville, while offering fewer specialized services than Cookeville, has several clinics and medical practices. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers in both towns is a critical factor in assessing **healthcare access** for Wilder residents.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 38589 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** is a significant factor, particularly for those without access to a car. The limited public transit options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

The score is somewhat mitigated by the proximity of medical facilities in Cookeville and Crossville, and the availability of medical **transportation** services. However, the cost and potential limitations of these services must be considered.

For individuals considering **moving to Wilder**, careful consideration of their healthcare needs is essential. Those with chronic medical conditions or limited mobility should prioritize access to reliable **transportation**. Exploring options such as carpooling with neighbors, utilizing medical **transportation** services, and planning appointments strategically to minimize travel time are crucial.

Advocating for improved public **transportation** options, even if demand-response services, could significantly improve **healthcare access** for Wilder residents. Supporting local initiatives to promote telehealth services and expand the availability of healthcare providers in the area would also be beneficial. The score reflects the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness to ensure timely and convenient access to essential medical care.