37724, Cumberland Gap, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37724, Cumberland Gap, Tennessee is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.43 percent of residents in 37724 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claiborne Medical Center with a distance of 9.35 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cumberland Gap (ZIP Code 37724)

The crisp mountain air of Cumberland Gap, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37724), whispers promises of a slower pace, a close-knit community, and breathtaking natural beauty. But for those considering a move, especially those with a heightened awareness of healthcare needs, the question of accessibility becomes paramount. This analysis explores the complexities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** within the context of breast cancer care, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" to illuminate the realities of navigating this critical aspect of life in this unique corner of Appalachia. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for prospective residents.

The very essence of **healthcare access** hinges on the ability to reach medical facilities. For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, this is not merely a convenience; it's a matter of life. In Cumberland Gap, the primary healthcare hub is the Claiborne County Hospital in Tazewell, approximately 15 miles south. This is the first point of consideration when assessing the **transportation** landscape.

Driving is the dominant mode of travel in this region. From Cumberland Gap, the most direct route to Tazewell involves taking US-25E South. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes around 20-25 minutes. However, the winding nature of US-25E, coupled with potential for seasonal weather challenges, could extend this travel time. The road itself is generally well-maintained, but sections can be narrow, and visibility can be compromised in fog or heavy rain.

Further specialized care, such as oncology services and advanced imaging, necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Knoxville, approximately 60 miles southwest. This journey involves navigating US-25E to I-75 South. The drive to Knoxville, depending on traffic, typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer commute introduces additional factors: the cost of fuel, the wear and tear on a vehicle, and the potential for fatigue, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment.

Public transit options are limited in Cumberland Gap. The Claiborne County Transit Authority offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while potentially providing access to local destinations like the Claiborne County Hospital, is not designed for frequent trips to Knoxville. Information regarding routes, schedules, and ADA-compliant features is crucial but difficult to find, making this option less reliable for complex healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the Knoxville area, but their availability in Cumberland Gap is sporadic. Securing a ride may be challenging, especially during off-peak hours or for longer distances to Knoxville. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for regular appointments. The lack of consistent ride-sharing further complicates **healthcare access** for residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, are available. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. These services can be invaluable for individuals unable to drive or use public transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and advance booking is often required.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Cumberland Gap (37724) is calculated based on several factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Hospital (Claiborne County Hospital):** Moderate (20-25 minutes)
* **Drive Time to Specialized Care (Knoxville):** High (1 hour 15 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes)
* **Public Transit Availability:** Low (Limited demand-response service)
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Low (Sporadic and unreliable)
* **Medical Transport Availability:** Moderate (Available, but costly)

Considering these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for **healthcare access** in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee (37724) is a **3 out of 5**. This indicates that while basic healthcare is relatively accessible, access to specialized breast cancer care requires significant travel and potentially relies on costly or unreliable **transportation** options.

For individuals considering **moving to Cumberland Gap**, this score should be a key consideration. It is crucial to assess personal **transportation** capabilities, financial resources, and the availability of support networks. Proactive planning is essential. Researching medical transport options, establishing relationships with healthcare providers in Knoxville, and exploring potential support groups are vital steps.

The beauty of Cumberland Gap, its serene environment, and its close-knit community offer undeniable appeal. However, the challenges of **healthcare access**, particularly for those facing breast cancer, cannot be ignored. A thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape and the resources available is essential for making an informed decision about **moving to Cumberland Gap**. This analysis serves as a starting point, encouraging further research and personalized assessment to ensure the best possible quality of life in this unique and beautiful region.

The journey through breast cancer is challenging. The ability to access timely and appropriate care is paramount. While Cumberland Gap offers a unique lifestyle, the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** must be carefully considered. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding these complexities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and navigate the path to wellness with greater confidence.