37923, Knoxville, Tennessee Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 37923, Knoxville, Tennessee is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.11 percent of residents in 37923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkwest Medical Center with a distance of 1.39 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 37923

The air hangs heavy with the promise of spring in Knoxville, Tennessee, a city nestled amongst rolling hills and the shimmering waters of the Tennessee River. For those considering a move to the 37923 ZIP code, a critical factor is healthcare access, especially for individuals managing asthma. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for this area, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care.

The 37923 ZIP code encompasses a diverse landscape, from bustling commercial corridors to quiet residential neighborhoods. This geographical variety significantly influences the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services. The ability to reach a doctor’s office or emergency room quickly is paramount for asthma sufferers, where even minor delays can escalate into serious health crises.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in Knoxville. Several major roadways provide access to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries are Interstate 640, Interstate 75, and US-64. Drive times to major hospitals, such as the University of Tennessee Medical Center, vary depending on the specific location within 37923 and the time of day. Rush hour congestion, particularly on I-75 and I-640, can significantly extend these drive times, potentially posing a significant challenge for individuals experiencing an asthma attack.

Navigating the local roads, such as Kingston Pike, Middlebrook Pike, and Northshore Drive, also plays a crucial role. These roads offer alternative routes, but they are often prone to traffic bottlenecks, especially near shopping centers and during school drop-off and pick-up times. Residents should familiarize themselves with these routes and consider them when planning their commutes to healthcare appointments.

Public transportation, provided by the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT), offers another option, though its impact on the Asthma Score is nuanced. KAT operates several bus routes that service the 37923 area. Routes 11, 12, and 22 are particularly relevant, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating delays in accessing medical care.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, and KAT strives to provide accessible services. All KAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps. However, the availability of accessible bus stops and the overall travel time using public transit can still be a concern. The Asthma Score reflects the importance of understanding the limitations of public transportation for those with urgent healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving and public transit. Their availability in Knoxville is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as when severe weather hits, can be a significant factor.

Specialized medical transportation services also exist in Knoxville. Companies like First Med Transport and AMR (American Medical Response) offer non-emergency medical transportation, often for individuals who require assistance getting to and from appointments. These services are particularly valuable for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. The Asthma Score weighs the availability, cost, and reliability of these services.

The Asthma Score for 37923 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that requires constant evaluation. The score is influenced by several factors, including the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of the road network, the availability and reliability of public transit, and the accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

For individuals with asthma, the ideal scenario is to live within close proximity to a hospital or urgent care center. This minimizes drive times and reduces the risk of delays in receiving medical attention during an asthma exacerbation. Careful consideration of the location of healthcare facilities within the 37923 ZIP code is crucial when making a moving decision.

The Asthma Score also considers the ease of navigating the transportation infrastructure. Understanding the traffic patterns on major highways and local roads is essential for planning efficient commutes to healthcare appointments. Utilizing navigation apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, can help residents identify the fastest routes and avoid potential delays.

Public transit, while offering an alternative, may not always be the most reliable option for individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score acknowledges the importance of considering the frequency of bus routes, the travel time, and the accessibility of bus stops. Planning ahead and allowing ample time for travel is crucial when relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services provide a convenient and on-demand transportation option, but the cost can be a significant factor. The Asthma Score considers the affordability of these services and the potential for surge pricing during peak hours. Residents should factor in the cost of ride-sharing when budgeting for healthcare-related transportation.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for individuals who cannot drive or require additional support. The Asthma Score weighs the availability, cost, and reliability of these services. Researching and identifying reputable medical transportation providers in advance is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

Moving to Knoxville, especially for individuals managing asthma, requires careful consideration of transportation options. The Asthma Score provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare services within the 37923 ZIP code. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation mode, residents can make informed decisions about where to live and how to access the medical care they need. The score is a fluid assessment, demanding constant review as infrastructure evolves and personal circumstances shift.