The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37830, Oak Ridge, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
69.46 percent of residents in 37830 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Methodist Medical Center Of Oak Ridge with a distance of 0.65 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37830, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Asthma Score | 52 |
---|---|
People Score | 34 |
Provider Score | 69 |
Hospital Score | 41 |
Travel Score | 51 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37830 | Oak Ridge | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.77 | 1.77 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 21.75 | 21.75 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 37.91 | 37.91 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 38.57 | 38.57 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37830, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Oak Ridge, TN (ZIP Code 37830)
Moving to a new city, especially with health considerations like asthma, requires meticulous planning. Understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around Oak Ridge, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37830), focusing on its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing asthma. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture to inform your decision.
Oak Ridge, nestled in the rolling hills of East Tennessee, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and scientific innovation. Its proximity to Knoxville provides access to a broader range of healthcare specialists, but the journey can be a significant factor for those with asthma, where timely access to care can be critical. This analysis considers the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services, providing a crucial 'Asthma Score' perspective.
**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**
For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is crucial. Oak Ridge Community Hospital, the primary local healthcare provider, is centrally located, making it generally accessible for most residents within the 37830 ZIP code. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to Knoxville, approximately 25 miles east.
The primary arteries connecting Oak Ridge to Knoxville are Interstate 40 (I-40) and State Route 62 (also known as Oak Ridge Turnpike). I-40 offers a faster, albeit potentially congested, route, especially during peak hours. Expect drive times to Knoxville hospitals, such as University of Tennessee Medical Center or Parkwest Medical Center, to range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
State Route 62 provides a more scenic, albeit slower, alternative. This route is generally less congested but can be affected by local traffic and construction. Drive times along this road to Knoxville can extend to an hour or more. Consider the time of day and potential traffic bottlenecks when planning appointments. For individuals with asthma, unexpected delays can exacerbate symptoms, making this consideration vital.
Navigating the local roads within Oak Ridge, such as Illinois Avenue, Emory Valley Road, and Robertsville Road, is generally straightforward. However, these roads can experience increased traffic during school hours and rush hour. Planning your route and allowing extra time for travel is always advisable. Consider the impact of weather conditions, such as rain or fog, which can further extend travel times and potentially trigger asthma symptoms.
**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**
Public transportation options in Oak Ridge are limited but available. The Oak Ridge Transit System (ORTS) operates a fixed-route bus service within the city. While the system provides a valuable service for some residents, its routes and frequency may not be ideal for those with asthma who require frequent or time-sensitive healthcare appointments.
The ORTS system offers several routes that connect different parts of Oak Ridge, including the Oak Ridge Community Hospital. However, these routes do not directly extend to Knoxville. To access healthcare facilities in Knoxville using public transit, a combination of ORTS and the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system would be necessary. This involves transferring between the two systems, adding significant travel time and potential exposure to environmental triggers.
The ORTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes features such as ramps, lifts, and priority seating. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can still pose challenges for individuals with asthma, particularly during exacerbations. Planning ahead, checking schedules, and allowing ample time for travel are crucial when utilizing public transit.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Convenience and Cost**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option in Oak Ridge. These services can provide convenient access to healthcare appointments, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand.
Ride-sharing fares can also be a significant expense, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments. Consider the cost of ride-sharing when budgeting for healthcare-related transportation. For individuals with limited financial resources, this can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access.
Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or other health considerations. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.
Companies like MedRide and CareRide offer NEMT services in the Oak Ridge area. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma who require assistance with transportation or who need to avoid exposure to potential triggers. Researching the available medical transport options and understanding their associated costs and requirements is essential.
**Asthma Score Considerations: A Holistic Perspective**
Evaluating the 'Asthma Score' for transportation in Oak Ridge (ZIP Code 37830) requires a holistic perspective. Consider the following factors:
* **Drive Times:** Factor in traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, when traveling to Knoxville for specialized care.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** Acknowledge the limited routes and the need for transfers when using public transit to access healthcare outside of Oak Ridge.
* **Ride-Sharing Costs:** Assess the affordability of ride-sharing services for frequent appointments.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** Investigate the availability, eligibility requirements, and cost of medical transport services.
* **Environmental Factors:** Consider the impact of weather conditions and air quality on asthma symptoms.
**Healthcare Access: A Critical Component of Quality of Life**
The ease of access to healthcare is a critical component of quality of life, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma. Moving to Oak Ridge requires careful consideration of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. By thoroughly researching the available options and planning accordingly, individuals with asthma can navigate the challenges and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate care they need. This 'Asthma Score' write-up provides a starting point for your research, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs in Oak Ridge.
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