37721, Corryton, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37721, Corryton, Tennessee is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.45 percent of residents in 37721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.57 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Access to Care in Corryton, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37721)**

The journey to conquer breast cancer often begins with a daunting first step: accessing timely and effective healthcare. For residents of Corryton, Tennessee (ZIP code 37721), the availability and ease of transportation to essential medical services directly impact their ability to receive crucial screenings, diagnoses, and treatments. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," considers the various transportation options available, measuring the accessibility of healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer care. We examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking breast cancer care in this community.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Corryton is the reliance on personal vehicles. Navigating the roadways is often the first hurdle. Driving to Knoxville, the nearest major city offering comprehensive breast cancer care, involves several routes. The most direct is via **Highway 11E**, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion, especially during peak hours. Expect a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, residents can utilize **Rutledge Pike**, which merges into **Highway 61**, offering a slightly longer, but often less congested, route.

Further afield, **Interstate 75** provides access to hospitals and clinics in the northern suburbs of Knoxville, such as Powell and Fountain City. However, this route requires navigating ramps and merging onto the interstate, which can be challenging for some drivers. The drive to these locations typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. The condition of the roads, including potholes and other maintenance issues, can also impact travel times and the comfort of the journey.

Public transportation options in Corryton are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides some service, but routes serving Corryton are infrequent and may not directly reach all healthcare facilities. **Route 11** (Northshore Drive) is the closest KAT route to Corryton, with stops along **Highway 11E**. However, the nearest bus stop to the center of Corryton is a considerable distance from many residences, requiring a walk or additional transportation.

The KAT system offers ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make relying solely on public transit for medical appointments challenging. Passengers should carefully plan their trips, considering potential delays and the need for transfers. The lack of weekend and evening service further restricts access for those with work or family commitments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or access public transit. However, the availability of these services in Corryton can be variable, with wait times potentially longer than in more densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The financial burden of transportation can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a breast cancer diagnosis.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility needs and ensuring patients arrive safely at their appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the Knoxville area, but their availability and coverage in Corryton should be confirmed. Costs for medical transport can vary, depending on the distance and the level of assistance required.

For individuals considering moving to Corryton, the availability of transportation to healthcare facilities should be a crucial factor in their decision. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of the available options. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the suitability of public transit. The proximity of healthcare facilities and the ease of access to those facilities are essential considerations for anyone seeking quality breast cancer care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the impact of these transportation challenges on the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. The stress of navigating traffic, coordinating transportation, and managing costs can negatively affect their mental and physical health. Addressing these transportation barriers is essential to ensure that all residents of Corryton have equal access to the care they need.

The score considers the impact of healthcare access, highlighting the need for community-based solutions. This could include advocating for increased public transit service, promoting ride-sharing programs, or supporting the expansion of medical transport services. Furthermore, community outreach programs can provide information and assistance to patients, helping them navigate the transportation options and access the care they need.

The "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access. It is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability of individuals to reach those facilities. By understanding the transportation challenges facing residents of Corryton, we can work towards creating a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for all. This includes advocating for improved infrastructure, promoting affordable transportation options, and ensuring that all residents have the support they need to overcome the challenges of breast cancer.