37886, Walland, Tennessee Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 37886, Walland, Tennessee is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.10 percent of residents in 37886 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.02 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Walland, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37886)

The crisp air of the Smoky Mountains whispers through the charming community of Walland, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37886), a place where life unfolds at a gentler pace. For those considering a move, particularly individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is paramount. This assessment, the "Alzheimer's Score," delves into the transportation landscape, aiming to provide a clear picture of how easily residents can reach vital medical services. We will explore the realities of transportation in this area, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, ultimately evaluating the practicality of accessing healthcare in this specific ZIP code.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Walland is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes, including trips to doctors' appointments and medical facilities. The primary thoroughfare is **US-411**, a major artery that connects Walland to surrounding towns and cities. Driving south on US-411 provides relatively direct access to Maryville, home to Blount Memorial Hospital, a crucial healthcare provider for the region. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes around 15-20 minutes. However, traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or due to accidents, potentially extending travel times.

Another important route is **TN-33**, which intersects with US-411 and provides access to the northern parts of Blount County and into Knoxville. This route offers alternative access to various healthcare providers and specialists in Knoxville, but the commute can be significantly longer, often taking 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. Navigating these roads, especially for individuals with cognitive impairments, requires careful planning and consideration of potential challenges.

Beyond the primary highways, local roads such as **Walland Highway** and **Old Walland Highway** offer access to local businesses and residential areas. These roads are generally less congested but can be winding and narrow, potentially making them difficult to navigate for those with vision or mobility issues. The condition of these roads, including potholes and lack of sidewalks, can also impact the ease of travel, particularly for those using mobility aids.

Public transportation options in Walland and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the **Blount County Transit Authority (BCTA)**. However, the BCTA's services are primarily focused on providing transportation within Blount County, with limited routes and schedules. The routes that do exist may not directly serve all medical facilities, and the frequency of service can be infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends.

Furthermore, the BCTA's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, are essential for individuals with mobility impairments. However, it is crucial to verify the specific routes and schedules to ensure they meet individual needs and that the buses are equipped with the necessary accommodations. The availability of accessible stops and the ease of navigating the bus system can significantly impact the overall accessibility of public transit for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Walland may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Wait times can be longer, and the cost of rides may be higher, especially during peak hours or for longer distances. The reliability of these services is also a factor, as cancellations or driver availability issues can disrupt scheduled appointments.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several companies operate in the region. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like **MedStar Transportation** and **AmbuCare** offer services that include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, it is crucial to verify the coverage area, availability, and cost of these services, as they can vary depending on the individual's needs and insurance coverage.

Another important consideration is the location of healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized services. While Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville provides a range of medical services, including primary care, emergency care, and some specialized departments, access to certain specialists, such as neurologists or geriatricians, may require travel to Knoxville. The distance and travel time to these specialists can be a significant factor for individuals with Alzheimer's, particularly those who experience cognitive decline or behavioral changes.

The availability of memory care facilities and assisted living communities in the Walland area is also crucial. These facilities provide specialized care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's, including medication management, personal care, and structured activities. The proximity of these facilities to transportation options is an important factor, as it can impact the ease of accessing medical appointments, social activities, and other essential services.

When assessing the "Alzheimer's Score" for Walland, it is essential to consider the following factors: the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the potential challenges of ride-sharing services, the availability of specialized medical transport, the distance to healthcare facilities and specialists, and the availability of memory care facilities.

The score reflects the overall accessibility of healthcare services for individuals with Alzheimer's in the area. The score is not a static measure, and it can be influenced by various factors, including the individual's health condition, mobility limitations, and access to support services.

For individuals considering moving to Walland, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of personal support, such as family members or caregivers, who can assist with transportation and appointments. It also involves researching the specific healthcare providers and facilities in the area, including their locations, services offered, and accessibility features.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Walland, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37886), reflects a landscape where transportation challenges exist. While the proximity to Maryville and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some degree of access, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for longer travel times to specialized services in Knoxville pose significant considerations. Careful planning, including exploring all available transportation options, securing necessary support, and understanding the local healthcare landscape, is essential for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families considering a move to this charming community. The score is a starting point, encouraging a deeper dive into the practical realities of healthcare access, ultimately empowering informed decisions about "moving to Walland."