37332, Evensville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37332, Evensville, Tennessee is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.05 percent of residents in 37332 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 Rhea Medical Center with a distance of 4.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Evensville (ZIP Code 37332)

Evensville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37332), presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for those seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This write-up, a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, delves into the intricacies of transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial factors in determining a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. This information is invaluable for anyone considering moving to Evensville, or for current residents navigating their healthcare journey.

The cornerstone of this assessment is **transportation**. The ease with which a resident can reach a healthcare provider directly impacts their prognosis and quality of life. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can have devastating consequences, making efficient and reliable transportation a non-negotiable aspect of healthcare access.

For residents of Evensville, the primary mode of transportation to larger healthcare facilities will likely be personal vehicles. The town's location, nestled in the Tennessee Valley, necessitates navigating a network of highways and roads. Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers in Chattanooga, the closest major city, presents a significant time commitment.

The primary artery connecting Evensville to Chattanooga is **Highway 58**. The drive typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which can fluctuate dramatically during peak hours. Highway 58 is generally well-maintained, but occasional construction or accidents can cause significant delays.

Once in Chattanooga, access to specialized cancer centers is facilitated by the city's network of roads. These include **Interstate 75 (I-75)**, a major north-south thoroughfare, and **Interstate 24 (I-24)**, which intersects I-75 in Chattanooga. Navigating these interstates can be complex, especially during rush hour, and can add considerable time to the overall commute.

Alternative routes, such as **Highway 60** and various county roads, offer potential detours, but they often involve slower speeds and more winding roads, which could be challenging for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. Careful consideration of traffic patterns and route planning is paramount.

Public transportation options in Evensville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (CARTA) provides bus service within the city, but its reach into the more rural areas like Evensville is minimal. Public transit, while an affordable option, may not be a viable solution for many residents, particularly those with mobility issues or those requiring frequent appointments.

CARTA operates several bus routes within Chattanooga, but these routes are unlikely to directly serve Evensville. Riders would need to rely on a combination of personal transport to reach a CARTA bus stop, and then transfer to a route that could get them closer to a healthcare facility. The inconvenience and time commitment associated with this make it a less desirable option for many patients.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor. While CARTA strives to provide accessible services, the frequency and reliability of these services in the Evensville area need to be carefully assessed. The lack of consistent, reliable public transit is a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** alternative. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a convenient solution for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in Evensville need to be carefully evaluated.

Ride-sharing prices fluctuate based on demand, and the cost of a ride to Chattanooga can be substantial, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Chattanooga area, including specialized non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers. These services offer a range of options, from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services.

These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or who have mobility limitations. However, the cost of medical transport can be significant, and insurance coverage varies. Understanding the coverage and the associated costs is crucial for patients who rely on these services. The availability of medical transport brands like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers in the Evensville area should be investigated.

The "Breast Cancer Score" assessment must also consider the distance to various healthcare facilities. The closest hospitals and cancer centers are in Chattanooga, including Erlanger Health System and CHI Memorial Hospital. These facilities offer comprehensive cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

The drive time to these facilities, as previously discussed, is a significant factor. The longer the commute, the greater the potential for delays, increased stress, and missed appointments.

For residents considering **moving to Evensville**, this assessment highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their **healthcare access** needs. The availability of reliable **transportation** is paramount. Residents should consider the following:

* The feasibility of driving to healthcare appointments.
* The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services.
* The availability and cost of medical transport services.
* The potential for reliance on family, friends, or community support for transportation.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Evensville (ZIP Code 37332) is influenced by several factors. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in **transportation** options, particularly public transit, pose challenges for **healthcare access**. Residents must carefully consider these factors when planning their healthcare journey. Proactive planning, including exploring all available **transportation** options and understanding the associated costs, is essential for ensuring timely and effective care.