37391, Turtletown, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37391, Turtletown, Tennessee is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.60 percent of residents in 37391 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 25.80 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Turtletown (ZIP Code 37391)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not only the emotional and physical toll of the disease itself but also the practicalities of accessing treatment. This assessment, a "Breast Cancer Score," focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 37391 (Turtletown, Tennessee), aiming to illuminate the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching vital medical appointments. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access in this community.

Turtletown, nestled in the heart of Tennessee, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with its distance from major metropolitan centers, influences the availability and accessibility of medical services. This analysis will delve into the specifics, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering moving to Turtletown.

**Driving the Distance: The Road to Recovery**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is by car. Understanding drive times is therefore crucial. Turtletown itself has limited medical facilities, meaning residents often need to travel to neighboring towns and cities for specialized care, including breast cancer treatment.

The most direct route to larger medical centers typically involves navigating the local road network. Highway 64, a major east-west thoroughfare, serves as a primary artery, connecting Turtletown to larger towns like Cleveland, Tennessee, approximately a 45-minute drive east. This route offers relatively smooth driving conditions, but traffic can be heavier during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Heading west on Highway 64 leads to Athens, Tennessee, about a 30-minute drive. Athens boasts a regional hospital and various specialist clinics, making it a more accessible option for certain medical needs. However, the roads leading into Athens can experience congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Another important route involves taking Highway 411, which runs north-south. This highway provides access to areas like Etowah and Madisonville, each with its own set of medical resources. Travel times vary depending on the specific destination, but generally range from 30 to 60 minutes.

The condition of the roads is generally good, with regular maintenance. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow, driving conditions can become hazardous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Turtletown and the surrounding areas are limited. This presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to physical limitations.

The primary public transit provider in the region is the Cleveland Urban Area Transit System (CUATS), which operates within the city of Cleveland. While CUATS does offer some routes that extend into the surrounding areas, their service to Turtletown is extremely limited, if available at all. This lack of comprehensive public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods for most residents.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible public transit options is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. While CUATS does offer some vehicles equipped with accessibility features, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can make it challenging for those with mobility impairments to reach medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the region, providing a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services in Turtletown and its surrounding areas can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The expense of multiple rides per week can quickly add up, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more tailored solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying patients to appointments.

Several medical transport providers serve the Turtletown area, including companies that offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. However, the availability of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required. The cost of medical transport can also be substantial, and insurance coverage may not always fully cover the expense.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Turtletown (ZIP Code 37391) reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While driving offers a relatively reliable means of transportation, the distances to specialized medical facilities and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. The limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit, highlights the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport provides some relief, but these options may not be accessible or affordable for all residents.

The score, therefore, reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to ensure that all residents of Turtletown, especially those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, can easily and affordably access the medical care they need.

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

For those considering moving to Turtletown, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services in the area.

Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should be aware of the limited options and consider alternative arrangements. Those without access to a personal vehicle should factor in the potential costs and availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach them. Addressing the transportation challenges in Turtletown is essential to ensuring that all residents have equal opportunities to receive timely and effective medical care.