37828, Norris, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37828, Norris, Tennessee is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.34 percent of residents in 37828 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.18 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Norris, TN (ZIP Code 37828)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Norris, Tennessee, offer a picturesque setting, beckoning those seeking a slower pace of life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic facade must be viewed through the lens of healthcare accessibility. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access** for residents of ZIP Code 37828, offering a comprehensive guide for anyone **moving to Norris** or already residing within its borders.

The primary concern for asthmatics is the timely and reliable access to medical care, especially during an exacerbation. This necessitates a thorough examination of the available **transportation** infrastructure. The area, while charming, presents unique challenges. The terrain, while beautiful, can also contribute to air quality issues, and the availability of readily accessible medical care is a critical factor in assessing the suitability of this location for individuals with respiratory conditions.

Driving remains the most common mode of **transportation** in this region. From Norris, the most direct route to the nearest major hospitals, such as the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, involves navigating a network of highways and roads. The primary artery is Interstate 75 (I-75), which offers a relatively swift connection. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Leaving Norris, drivers typically merge onto I-75 South, which then leads towards Knoxville. The journey, spanning approximately 25 miles, should take around 30-45 minutes under ideal conditions. However, accidents or unexpected delays on I-75, or even on secondary roads like Clinton Highway (US-25W), can easily extend this timeframe, posing a significant risk for someone experiencing an asthma attack. The speed and reliability of this **transportation** method are crucial.

For those seeking a closer option, Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, located roughly 15 miles away, provides a quicker, though still car-dependent, alternative. The drive utilizes TN-61, also known as Oak Ridge Highway, and typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. While closer, this route also experiences congestion during peak hours, and its reliance on a single road increases the vulnerability to delays.

Public **transportation** options in Norris are extremely limited, presenting a major hurdle for individuals relying on alternatives to personal vehicles. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system, the primary public transit provider for the Knoxville metropolitan area, offers limited service to the surrounding areas. While KAT does extend some routes towards Oak Ridge, the frequency and coverage are not designed to effectively serve the needs of residents in Norris.

There is no direct KAT route to Norris. Individuals relying on public **transportation** would likely need to utilize multiple buses, involving transfers and extended travel times. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access**, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the limited routes serving the area should be carefully investigated, including the availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another potential **transportation** option. However, the availability and cost of these services in Norris can be variable. While the presence of these services provides a degree of flexibility, reliance on ride-sharing can be expensive, especially during peak hours or in emergencies. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly in response to urgent medical needs, is also a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), provide a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring specialized assistance. In the event of an asthma exacerbation, immediate access to emergency medical services is paramount. The response time of local ambulance services is critical. While emergency services are available, the distance to the nearest hospitals and the potential for traffic delays on I-75 or TN-61 underscore the importance of prompt and efficient **transportation**.

NEMT services, which cater to individuals needing **transportation** to routine medical appointments, offer another important consideration. Several providers, such as Logisticare and ModivCare, operate in the region. However, the availability, scheduling, and cost of these services should be carefully investigated. The reliance on NEMT can add considerable time and complexity to accessing routine healthcare, potentially impacting the ability to manage asthma effectively.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Norris, TN, presents a mixed bag for asthmatics. While the natural beauty and slower pace of life are appealing, the challenges associated with **transportation** cannot be overlooked. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential variability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a complex environment.

For individuals **moving to Norris**, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs and their ability to manage potential delays is essential. Establishing a strong support network, including access to reliable **transportation**, is crucial. The proximity to hospitals and emergency services is a positive factor, but the potential for delays on the roads should be factored into any decision.

The "Asthma Score" for Norris, TN, is therefore a nuanced one. While the presence of major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance is a positive, the limited public transit, the potential for traffic delays, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. Individuals with asthma considering this area should carefully weigh these factors and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare before making a move. The success of managing asthma in this location depends on proactive planning and a clear understanding of the **transportation** landscape.