The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37705, Andersonville, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
39.92 percent of residents in 37705 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.63 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37705, Andersonville, Tennessee
Breast Cancer Score | 64 |
---|---|
People Score | 49 |
Provider Score | 61 |
Hospital Score | 51 |
Travel Score | 51 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37705 | Andersonville | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.49 | 1.49 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 9.88 | 9.88 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 31.43 | 31.43 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 57.20 | 57.20 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37705, Andersonville, Tennessee
**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Andersonville (ZIP Code 37705)**
The quest for timely and effective breast cancer care is a journey, and in Andersonville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37705), that journey begins with understanding the accessibility of healthcare. This report, a “Breast Cancer Score” analysis, explores the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical facilities for screening, diagnosis, and treatment. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this community.
The primary consideration is the crucial element of transportation. For individuals facing a potential breast cancer diagnosis, or undergoing treatment, the ability to reach medical appointments with minimal stress and delay is paramount. Delays can impact treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. This analysis examines the available transportation options, emphasizing their convenience, reliability, and suitability for individuals with varying mobility needs.
**Driving Directions: The Road to Care**
Andersonville's location, nestled in rural East Tennessee, influences the primary mode of transportation: the personal vehicle. The most direct routes to major healthcare providers in Knoxville involve driving on Interstate 75 (I-75) and the surrounding roads. The drive to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major cancer treatment facility, from the center of Andersonville typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This trip necessitates navigating the often-busy I-75 south, requiring careful planning, especially during peak commuting hours.
Another option is to utilize Highway 61, a more direct route to Knoxville, though it may involve navigating slower, more winding roads. This route offers a scenic alternative but can add to the travel time, potentially reaching an hour or more, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Knoxville. Residents should factor in potential delays due to accidents or road work, especially when scheduling appointments.
For those seeking care closer to home, the Claiborne County Hospital in Tazewell, Tennessee, is accessible via Highway 61 North. This drive is significantly shorter, taking approximately 30 minutes. However, the scope of services offered may be more limited compared to the larger facilities in Knoxville.
**Public Transit: A Limited Network**
Public transportation options in Andersonville are limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system does not directly serve Andersonville. This absence necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, potentially increasing travel time and complexity.
While KAT does provide limited services to surrounding areas, such as the Halls Crossroads area, the connection to Andersonville is not direct. Individuals relying on public transit would likely need to use multiple modes of transportation, including ride-sharing services or taxis, to reach KAT routes, adding to the overall travel time and cost. The absence of ADA-compliant features on all KAT routes may also pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Andersonville area, offering a potential solution for those without personal transportation. However, the availability of these services can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing costs can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized option. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transportation providers operate in the Knoxville area, including companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and MedTrans Corporation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and pre-booking is often required.
**The Andersonville Breast Cancer Score: A Summary**
The "Breast Cancer Score" for Andersonville, considering the available transportation options, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While driving offers the most direct route to major medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges for those without them. The lack of robust public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.
**Factors to Consider for Prospective Residents**
For individuals considering moving to Andersonville, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration, especially if they have a history of breast cancer or are at high risk. The proximity to Knoxville, with its comprehensive medical facilities, is a positive factor. However, the need to rely on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services necessitates careful planning and budgeting.
**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**
Enhancing healthcare access in Andersonville requires a multi-faceted approach. Exploring partnerships with KAT to extend service to the area, even on a limited basis, could significantly improve healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing services, perhaps through community initiatives, could also increase accessibility. Finally, providing financial assistance or subsidies for medical transportation services could help alleviate the financial burden on patients.
**Conclusion**
Navigating the healthcare landscape in Andersonville, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a thoughtful understanding of the available transportation options. While the community offers access to quality medical facilities in Knoxville, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. By understanding these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and advocate for improvements in transportation access, ultimately contributing to a healthier community. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not just about the availability of medical services, but also about the ease with which individuals can reach them.
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