37804, Maryville, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37804, Maryville, Tennessee is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.70 percent of residents in 37804 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.24 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Maryville (ZIP Code 37804)

Relocating to a new city, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands meticulous planning. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of Maryville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37804), providing an "Asthma Score" to gauge the ease of accessing healthcare facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, all crucial for managing asthma effectively. We will also consider the impact of air quality, a critical factor for asthma sufferers.

Maryville, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, offers a blend of natural beauty and a growing suburban environment. The city's layout and transportation infrastructure significantly impact healthcare access. For individuals with asthma, reliable and efficient transportation is paramount, especially during exacerbations. This analysis aims to illuminate the realities of navigating the city's transportation network to ensure timely access to medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Maryville is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is essential. The major thoroughfare, **US-411**, provides direct access to many medical offices and Blount Memorial Hospital. Depending on traffic, a drive to the hospital from various points in the ZIP code can range from 5 to 15 minutes. **US-129** offers another route, though it can be congested during peak hours.

Navigating the local roads, such as **Pellissippi Parkway** and **East Lamar Alexander Parkway**, requires careful consideration. These roads are often busy and can be subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hour. This can impact travel times and potentially exacerbate asthma symptoms due to prolonged exposure to vehicle exhaust. The Asthma Score will reflect the variability in drive times based on time of day and traffic conditions.

The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is also a factor. While most facilities offer ample parking, congestion during peak hours can add to stress and potentially trigger asthma symptoms. The Asthma Score will factor in the ease of parking, considering proximity to entrances and the availability of designated spaces for individuals with disabilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Viable Option**

Public transportation in Maryville is provided by the Blount County Transit Authority (BCTA). While the system is limited compared to larger metropolitan areas, it offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. Several routes serve key areas within the ZIP code, including those with medical facilities.

The BCTA operates a fixed-route system with buses running on a scheduled basis. Route numbers and schedules are readily available online and at designated bus stops. The Asthma Score will consider the frequency of service, the proximity of bus stops to healthcare facilities, and the overall convenience of the routes.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical aspect of public transit accessibility. The BCTA provides accessible buses equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. The Asthma Score will reflect the availability and reliability of these features.

However, public transit in Maryville has limitations. The routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, and the frequency of service can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can necessitate longer travel times and potentially increase the risk of exposure to environmental triggers for asthma.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Maryville, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who need to access healthcare facilities at times when public transit is unavailable or inconvenient.

The Asthma Score will factor in the availability and cost of ride-sharing services. The ability to book rides quickly and reliably, especially during emergencies, is crucial. The score will also consider the potential for exposure to allergens or irritants within ride-sharing vehicles, such as cigarette smoke or strong fragrances.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation to and from medical appointments. The Asthma Score will assess the availability, cost, and reliability of these services.

**Air Quality and Environmental Factors: A Crucial Consideration**

Air quality is a significant factor for individuals with asthma. Maryville, while situated in a relatively clean environment, can experience periods of poor air quality due to factors such as pollen, seasonal allergies, and vehicle emissions.

The Asthma Score will consider the availability of real-time air quality data and the potential impact of environmental factors on asthma symptoms. The score will also factor in the proximity of healthcare facilities to areas with higher levels of air pollution.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score will be a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed above. It will provide a comprehensive assessment of the ease of accessing healthcare in Maryville (ZIP Code 37804) for individuals with asthma. The score will be based on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access and lower scores indicating greater challenges.

The score will be presented in a user-friendly format, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation options available. The goal is to empower individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and to plan for potential challenges.

**Moving to Maryville: A Proactive Approach**

For individuals considering moving to Maryville with asthma, a proactive approach is essential. Researching healthcare facilities, understanding the transportation options, and assessing the local air quality are crucial steps.

The Asthma Score can serve as a valuable tool in this process, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this analysis, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about their relocation and ensure they have the resources they need to manage their condition effectively.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that moving to Maryville is a positive experience, allowing individuals with asthma to thrive in their new community while maintaining their health and well-being. This detailed assessment of transportation and healthcare access is a crucial step in achieving that goal.