37686, Piney Flats, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37686, Piney Flats, Tennessee is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.90 percent of residents in 37686 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Woods Community Hospital with a distance of 7.73 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Piney Flats, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37686)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than medical expertise. It necessitates accessible and reliable transportation, a critical factor influencing treatment adherence and overall well-being. This assessment explores the landscape of healthcare access for individuals residing in Piney Flats, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37686), focusing on transportation options to facilities offering breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score," reflecting the ease and challenges of navigating this vital aspect of healthcare.

Piney Flats, a charming community nestled in the Appalachian foothills, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. While the area boasts a sense of tranquility, healthcare access is primarily concentrated in neighboring cities, requiring residents to traverse various roads and potentially rely on alternative transportation methods. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking breast cancer care.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary routes connecting Piney Flats to healthcare facilities involve navigating the region's well-maintained roadways. The most direct route to Johnson City, home to major medical centers, often involves traveling on **Highway 11E** (also known as **Bristol Highway**). Depending on traffic conditions, the drive typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes. This route is generally straightforward, offering a consistent flow of traffic.

For those seeking care in Bristol, Tennessee, the journey often involves taking **Highway 19** or **Interstate 81**. The drive time to Bristol, depending on the destination within the city, could be around 20 to 35 minutes. **Interstate 81** is a major thoroughfare, but traffic congestion can occur, particularly during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Understanding these drive times is crucial for individuals managing breast cancer care. Frequent appointments for screenings, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or follow-up visits can place a significant burden on patients and their caregivers, making efficient transportation a necessity. For those considering moving to Piney Flats, this analysis provides a practical insight into the geographical realities of healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within the region are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The **Bristol Tennessee-Virginia Transit System (BTVS)** serves the neighboring cities of Bristol, Tennessee, and Bristol, Virginia. However, the BTVS network does not extend directly into Piney Flats. This means that residents must rely on other means of transportation to reach the nearest bus stops.

Furthermore, the BTVS system's routes and schedules may not be ideal for medical appointments. The frequency of buses and the time required to travel between stops could make it difficult to arrive on time for scheduled appointments. While the BTVS does offer ADA-accessible features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, the lack of direct service to Piney Flats remains a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. In a rural area like Piney Flats, wait times for a ride-share may be longer than in more urban environments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for individuals with frequent appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, including **First Call Medical Transport** and **Appalachian Ambulance Service**. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary.

**Healthcare Access: The Score and Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Piney Flats, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37686) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While drive times to medical facilities in Johnson City and Bristol are generally manageable, the limited availability of public transit and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services pose challenges.

The score is influenced by several factors: the accessibility of major roadways, the availability of ride-sharing services, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the limited public transit options. For individuals considering moving to Piney Flats, the score highlights the importance of having access to a personal vehicle or reliable transportation assistance.

The healthcare landscape in Piney Flats requires careful consideration. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the geographical realities of healthcare access demand proactive planning. Patients and their caregivers must factor in travel times, transportation costs, and the availability of support services when navigating the complexities of breast cancer care. This analysis offers a starting point for understanding these complexities and making informed decisions.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

To improve healthcare access for Piney Flats residents, several strategies could be considered. Expanding public transit options to include direct routes to healthcare facilities would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide discounted transportation for medical appointments could also be explored. Furthermore, increasing awareness of medical transport services and their availability would be valuable.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the critical link between transportation and healthcare. By understanding the challenges and opportunities within Piney Flats, residents can better navigate the healthcare system and ensure they receive the care they need. This analysis provides a foundation for further discussion and collaboration, ultimately aiming to improve healthcare access for all members of the community. The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough; ensuring accessible transportation is a crucial step in easing the burden.