37329, Englewood, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37329, Englewood, Tennessee is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.29 percent of residents in 37329 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 7.15 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Englewood, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37329)

Imagine a diagnosis, a whisper of fear taking root. Now, picture the added burden of navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for a condition like breast cancer. For residents of Englewood, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37329), the journey to quality care is a vital consideration, a factor woven into the very fabric of their lives. This analysis explores the landscape of transportation options, painting a picture of healthcare access for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, and for those considering moving to Englewood.

The "Breast Cancer Score" presented here isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it's a composite assessment reflecting the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing breast cancer-related healthcare from Englewood. It considers drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options, all crucial elements determining a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care.

Englewood, nestled in McMinn County, offers a serene backdrop, but its relative isolation presents transportation challenges. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers and specialized breast care facilities are located in larger cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville, requiring significant travel. This geographical reality dictates that **transportation** becomes a critical factor in a patient's treatment journey.

Driving is the primary mode of **transportation** for most Englewood residents. The most direct route to Chattanooga, home to several cancer centers, involves utilizing US-411 South, a major thoroughfare connecting Englewood to the larger metropolitan area. The drive, covering approximately 70 miles, typically takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Delays can be expected during peak hours, especially around Athens, TN.

Alternatively, the route via I-75 South offers a slightly faster, but often more congested, option. This interstate provides a high-speed connection, but traffic bottlenecks, particularly during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times. The I-75 corridor is also subject to occasional construction, which can further complicate commutes.

For those seeking care in Knoxville, the journey involves traveling north on US-411, eventually connecting to I-75 North. This route covers a distance of approximately 100 miles and can take between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes. Again, traffic on I-75 is a significant consideration, particularly during weekday commutes.

Public **transportation** options in Englewood are limited. The McMinn County Public Transit Authority provides a demand-response service, offering rides within the county. However, this service is primarily designed for local errands and appointments, and is unlikely to be suitable for regular trips to Chattanooga or Knoxville for cancer treatment. Scheduling and availability must be considered, especially for patients requiring frequent appointments.

There are no fixed-route bus services connecting Englewood to Chattanooga or Knoxville. This lack of public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who do not drive or have limited access to a vehicle. The absence of a robust public transit system is a major disadvantage for individuals facing the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer treatment.

ADA accessibility on the McMinn County Public Transit Authority service should be confirmed by the individual patient.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Englewood area, though their reliability and availability can fluctuate. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, the cost of frequent trips to Chattanooga or Knoxville can quickly become a financial burden. Patients should be prepared to factor in the expense of ride-sharing when planning their treatment. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or for longer distances, is also a concern.

Medical **transportation** services are another option for patients. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical **transportation** can provide door-to-door service, ensuring patients arrive safely and comfortably at their appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly. Researching and comparing the services of companies like Firstat Nursing Services, or Air Ambulance Services, is essential to find the best fit for individual needs and budget.

For those considering **moving to Englewood**, the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for specialized needs like breast cancer treatment, should be a key consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options mean that access to quality care requires careful planning and a willingness to travel.

The Breast Cancer Score for Englewood, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the distance to specialized cancer centers and the limitations in **transportation** options present significant challenges. Patients must be prepared to navigate potentially long drives, manage travel costs, and rely on a combination of personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services.

The emotional and physical toll of breast cancer treatment is significant. Adding the stress of long commutes and **transportation** logistics can exacerbate these challenges. Therefore, individuals facing a diagnosis in Englewood must prioritize careful planning, explore all available resources, and seek support from family, friends, and healthcare providers to ensure they receive the care they need.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of community support and the need for innovative solutions to improve **healthcare access** in rural areas. This includes advocating for expanded public **transportation** options, promoting partnerships between local healthcare providers and **transportation** companies, and ensuring that patients are aware of all available resources.

In conclusion, while Englewood offers a tranquil setting, the Breast Cancer Score reveals that **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients is heavily influenced by the realities of **transportation**. The journey to quality care requires careful planning, financial considerations, and a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services. This underscores the importance of proactive healthcare navigation and the need for community-based solutions to support patients throughout their treatment journey.