The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37912, Knoxville, Tennessee is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
77.29 percent of residents in 37912 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is East Tennessee Childrens Hospital with a distance of 4.01 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37912, Knoxville, Tennessee
Asthma Score | 56 |
---|---|
People Score | 11 |
Provider Score | 86 |
Hospital Score | 39 |
Travel Score | 65 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37912 | Knoxville | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.55 | 1.43 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 31.29 | 18.59 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 41.14 | 45.06 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 25.03 | 34.93 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37912, Knoxville, Tennessee
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 37912
The quest for quality healthcare, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma, often extends beyond the doctor's office. It encompasses the journey itself – the commute. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment for the 37912 ZIP code in Knoxville, Tennessee, analyzes the accessibility of healthcare facilities, focusing on transportation options and their potential impact on residents with asthma. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Knoxville, particularly those who prioritize ease of access to medical care.
The 37912 ZIP code, encompassing a diverse area of Knoxville, presents a mixed bag of transportation possibilities. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 40 (I-40), Interstate 75 (I-75), and US-441 (also known as Chapman Highway). These highways offer relatively swift access to various healthcare providers, though traffic congestion during peak hours can significantly impact drive times, especially for those with asthma who may be sensitive to air quality or stress.
Drive times to healthcare facilities within and around 37912 vary considerably. The University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major regional healthcare provider, is accessible via I-40 and is generally a 10-20 minute drive depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. Access to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital is also achievable via I-40, taking approximately 15-25 minutes. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities, often located along Chapman Highway and Kingston Pike, can offer quicker access, potentially within a 5-15 minute drive.
Public transportation, managed by the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT), provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several KAT bus routes serve the 37912 area, including routes 11, 12, and 22. These routes offer connections to major healthcare hubs. However, the frequency of these routes can vary, and the travel time, including wait times, can be considerably longer than driving. KAT offers ADA-accessible buses, providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations that might be exacerbated by asthma.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Knoxville and offer a convenient option for healthcare access. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for parking and potentially reducing exposure to environmental triggers. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. During peak hours or inclement weather, surge pricing can further increase the expense.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, are another option. Companies like FirstMed and CareRide specialize in non-emergency medical transportation, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can provide a more comfortable and supportive transportation experience for individuals with asthma, but they typically require advance booking and may have limited availability.
The "Asthma Score" for 37912 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The proximity to major highways provides relatively quick access to healthcare facilities for those with personal vehicles. However, the reliance on personal vehicles contributes to potential air quality concerns, a known trigger for asthma. Public transit offers an alternative, but the longer travel times and potential for exposure to allergens within the bus environment must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide convenience and specialized support, but their cost and availability are significant considerations.
For an individual with asthma, the ideal scenario involves a combination of factors. Living close to a healthcare provider, ideally within a 10-minute drive, minimizes exposure to environmental triggers during transit. Utilizing ride-sharing or medical transportation services for appointments can reduce the stress of driving and parking. When public transit is the only option, planning ahead and considering the potential for increased travel time and exposure to allergens is essential.
The presence of sidewalks and bike lanes within the 37912 area also influences the "Asthma Score." While not a primary mode of transportation for healthcare access, the availability of safe pedestrian and cycling routes encourages physical activity and potentially reduces reliance on motorized vehicles, thereby improving air quality. However, the hilly terrain of some areas within the ZIP code may pose challenges for individuals with asthma, making walking or cycling less viable.
Choosing a residence within 37912 requires careful consideration of these transportation factors and their impact on asthma management. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable public transportation, and the availability of ride-sharing services are crucial. The individual's personal preferences, financial constraints, and the severity of their asthma symptoms will further influence the optimal transportation strategy.
Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for 37912 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that varies based on individual circumstances. It highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when making decisions about healthcare access and emphasizes the need for proactive planning to minimize potential asthma triggers during the commute. For those moving to Knoxville, this analysis provides a valuable framework for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare and making informed choices that support their health and well-being. The goal is to facilitate seamless transportation and healthcare access, ensuring that managing asthma is as manageable as possible.
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