37387, Tracy City, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37387, Tracy City, Tennessee is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.98 percent of residents in 37387 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southern Tennessee Regional Hlth System Winchester with a distance of 19.71 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tracy City (ZIP Code 37387)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a place like Tracy City, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37387), often hinges on a multitude of factors. For those prioritizing healthcare access, especially concerning a disease as critical as breast cancer, understanding the local landscape is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview of transportation options and healthcare facilities within reach, empowering informed decisions about moving to Tracy City and ensuring timely care.

Tracy City, nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting means navigating winding roads and limited public transportation. The nearest major medical facilities are situated in larger towns, necessitating careful consideration of transportation logistics. This analysis will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access for those in need of breast cancer services.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For most residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The journey to healthcare facilities often begins on local roads, which can be narrow and winding. The primary artery connecting Tracy City to the outside world is **Highway 41**, a critical route for accessing larger towns like Monteagle and Winchester. Traffic flow is typically moderate, but conditions can vary due to weather, especially during winter months.

Heading east on Highway 41, you’ll find the **University of the South's Sewanee Hospital** in Sewanee, approximately a 20-minute drive. This hospital offers basic medical services and can provide initial consultations. For more specialized breast cancer care, however, patients often need to travel further.

Traveling west on Highway 41 leads to Winchester, a journey of about 30-40 minutes. Winchester hosts the **Southern Tennessee Regional Health System – Winchester**, a more comprehensive facility offering a broader range of medical services, including diagnostic imaging. This facility is essential for early detection and diagnosis.

Beyond Winchester, the drive extends to larger cities like Chattanooga, approximately an hour and a half away. Chattanooga boasts a variety of medical centers, including the **Erlanger Health System**, offering comprehensive cancer care, including oncology, surgery, and radiation therapy. The journey involves navigating **Highway 64**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and then **Interstate 24**, which can experience significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Resource**

Public transportation options in Tracy City are limited. The area lacks a dedicated bus system or extensive public transit network. This significantly impacts those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

There are some local transportation services that may offer limited routes. However, these services often require advance booking and may not provide regular routes to medical facilities. Inquiries should be directed to local government offices or social service agencies to determine availability.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for those with mobility challenges. Public transit options, when available, should be thoroughly vetted for wheelchair access, ramps, and other accommodations. Unfortunately, the lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents of Tracy City.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their presence might be sporadic. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is not always feasible, and advance planning is crucial.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including rides to doctor's appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and other healthcare-related needs. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve specific eligibility requirements. They are often a more reliable option for those without personal transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Tracy City reveals a complex picture. While the area offers proximity to basic medical services, accessing specialized breast cancer care requires significant travel. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, presents a significant challenge.

The drive times to facilities in Winchester and Chattanooga, while manageable, necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The lack of robust public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing further complicate the situation.

**Moving to Tracy City: Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering a move to Tracy City, understanding these transportation and healthcare access challenges is essential. Those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk should carefully assess their ability to manage the travel requirements for regular screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment.

Prior to relocating, researching the availability of medical transportation services, establishing relationships with healthcare providers in nearby towns, and understanding the local road conditions are critical steps. Exploring the potential for carpooling or other shared transportation arrangements with neighbors can also be beneficial.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare**

The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning when considering a move to Tracy City. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access require careful consideration, especially for those requiring specialized medical care.

By understanding the drive times, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing, and the options for medical transportation, individuals can make informed decisions that prioritize their healthcare needs. This comprehensive analysis empowers potential residents to navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure timely access to essential breast cancer services, promoting a healthy and fulfilling life in Tracy City.