37335, Flintville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37335, Flintville, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.55 percent of residents in 37335 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincoln Medical Center with a distance of 10.12 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Flintville, TN (ZIP Code 37335)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer, a life-altering event, necessitates immediate and consistent healthcare. For residents of Flintville, Tennessee, (ZIP Code 37335), access to timely and appropriate medical care hinges significantly on transportation infrastructure and available options. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates the commute to healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer treatment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. This score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access for potential residents considering moving to Flintville.

Flintville, a rural community nestled in Lincoln County, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, requiring residents to navigate considerable distances. The primary method of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary route to Huntsville Hospital, a major healthcare provider offering oncology services, involves a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically begins on US-64, a major east-west thoroughfare, then merges onto US-231 North. The route is generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times. The drive to Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, a more specialized facility, is a significantly longer commute, ranging from 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via I-24 West. This interstate route is prone to heavy traffic, especially during rush hour and on weekends, potentially impacting the timely arrival for appointments and treatments.

The availability of alternative routes is limited. Local roads, such as Old Huntsville Highway and Boonshill Road, offer scenic alternatives, but they are often narrow, winding, and may not be suitable for emergency situations. These roads also lack the capacity to handle significant traffic volume, making them less reliable options for regular commutes.

**Public Transit Challenges**

Public transportation options in Flintville and Lincoln County are severely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the county. The absence of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own vehicles, those unable to drive due to medical conditions, or those with limited financial resources.

The lack of public transit also impacts individuals with disabilities. There are no readily available paratransit services, and the existing infrastructure does not meet the requirements for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. This absence of accessible transportation options further exacerbates healthcare access disparities for vulnerable populations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have limited availability in Flintville. While these services may be accessible, their presence is often sporadic, and wait times can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available, but they vary in their scope and availability. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, but they are not designed for routine medical appointments. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers offer services to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of NEMT services in Flintville may be limited, and the cost can be substantial.

**Healthcare Access and the Breast Cancer Score**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Flintville reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score.

The extended drive times to specialized cancer centers, particularly Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, pose a significant challenge for patients requiring frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The potential for increased travel times due to traffic congestion can further exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis.

The lack of accessible transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. These individuals may face significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical care, potentially impacting their treatment outcomes.

**Moving to Flintville: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Flintville, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The absence of robust public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning and consideration.

Prospective residents should factor in the commute times to healthcare facilities, the potential for traffic congestion, and the associated costs of transportation. They should also assess their ability to drive or arrange for alternative transportation, such as family members or friends.

Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments, should conduct a thorough assessment of healthcare access options before making a decision to move to Flintville. They should explore the availability of medical transport services and inquire about the cost and reliability of these services.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Flintville highlights the complexities of healthcare access in a rural community. While the area offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation infrastructure pose significant challenges for individuals seeking timely and appropriate medical care. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including investments in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the enhancement of medical transport options. For residents of Flintville, and those considering moving there, understanding these challenges is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.