37727, Del Rio, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37727, Del Rio, Tennessee is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.64 percent of residents in 37727 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Healthcare - Newport Medical Center with a distance of 9.43 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Del Rio, TN (ZIP Code 37727)

Moving to a new town, especially when considering healthcare needs, demands a thorough understanding of local resources. This assessment provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Del Rio, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37727), focusing on transportation access to breast cancer screening and treatment facilities. The score is not a definitive medical evaluation, but rather a practical guide to the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure. This information is crucial for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike, offering insights into healthcare access within the context of daily commutes.

Del Rio, nestled in Cocke County, presents unique transportation challenges. The rural landscape and limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport further influences the Breast Cancer Score, creating a complex picture of healthcare accessibility. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the presence of alternative transportation options, providing a nuanced perspective on the reality of healthcare access.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Arteries of Healthcare**

The primary determinant of the Breast Cancer Score is the ease of access to breast cancer-related healthcare facilities. This is measured by drive times, a critical factor influencing the overall score. The journey to these facilities, often located in neighboring towns, is dictated by the local road network.

The most direct route for many residents of Del Rio involves navigating **US-25E (Newport Highway)**. This artery, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. The distance to major healthcare hubs like Newport, Tennessee, is relatively manageable, typically requiring a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. However, this drive time can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, common in the region.

Beyond Newport, access to more specialized facilities may necessitate longer drives. **Interstate 40**, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to Knoxville, Tennessee, a city offering a wider range of advanced medical services. The drive to Knoxville via I-40 typically takes around an hour and a half, a significant commitment considering the potential frequency of appointments and treatments. This longer travel time can be a major factor in the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals requiring regular care.

**Alternative Routes and Considerations**

While US-25E and I-40 represent the primary routes, alternative roads can offer options, albeit with potential drawbacks. **State Route 35** provides a more scenic, but often slower, alternative to Newport. This route is less congested but can be winding and prone to delays. Similarly, local roads like **Dandridge Pike** and **Del Rio Road** offer access to nearby communities, but they are generally not recommended for longer journeys due to their limited capacity and potential for delays.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the condition of the roads. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting can exacerbate travel times and create safety concerns, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. The maintenance of these roads is therefore a critical factor in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Del Rio and the surrounding areas is limited, significantly impacting the Breast Cancer Score. Cocke County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This reality means that individuals who do not own a vehicle, or who are unable to drive due to health conditions, face significant barriers to accessing healthcare.

The availability of any public transit options is crucial. While specific route numbers and schedules are subject to change, it's essential to investigate any existing services. These services may offer limited routes to Newport or other nearby towns. The frequency of these routes, their operating hours, and their accessibility features (e.g., wheelchair accessibility) are all factors that influence the Breast Cancer Score.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any public transit options is also a critical consideration. This includes ensuring that buses and other vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts, that designated seating is available, and that the system is accessible to individuals with visual or auditory impairments. The lack of ADA-compliant transportation significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score for individuals with disabilities.

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

The emergence of ride-sharing services and medical transport options has partially addressed the transportation challenges in rural areas. However, the availability and affordability of these services vary. The Breast Cancer Score incorporates the presence of these alternatives and their impact on healthcare access.

**Uber** and **Lyft** are the primary ride-sharing services operating in the area. Their availability, however, is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as **CareRide** or **MedTrans**, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door service and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. The availability of these services, their service areas, and their associated costs are all factors that influence the Breast Cancer Score.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Del Rio, TN (ZIP Code 37727) is a composite assessment, integrating drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport. A higher score indicates better access to breast cancer-related healthcare, while a lower score reflects significant transportation challenges.

The score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic reflection of the local transportation landscape. Changes in road conditions, the expansion of public transit options, or the increased availability of ride-sharing services can all impact the score.

For residents of Del Rio, understanding the Breast Cancer Score is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access. This understanding allows individuals to plan their healthcare journeys effectively, identify potential challenges, and seek out alternative transportation options. For those considering moving to Del Rio, this assessment provides a realistic perspective on the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access, empowering them to make informed choices about their future. The overall goal is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the vital healthcare they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.