37731, Eidson, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37731, Eidson, Tennessee is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

19.70 percent of residents in 37731 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hawkins County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.40 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Eidson, TN (ZIP Code 37731)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. Beyond the emotional and physical toll of the disease itself, the practicalities of transportation and access to timely care loom large. This analysis delves into the breast cancer healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 37731, Eidson, Tennessee, assessing the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding for residents and those considering moving to the area, evaluating the challenges and opportunities within this rural setting.

Eidson, nestled in the rolling hills of Hancock County, presents a unique set of circumstances regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area means that residents often face longer travel times and limited transportation choices. This is particularly relevant for those requiring specialized care, such as breast cancer treatment, which often necessitates frequent appointments for diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care.

The primary mode of transportation in Eidson is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The local roads, including **Highway 25E** and **Highway 31**, serve as the major arteries connecting Eidson to nearby towns and cities where healthcare facilities are located. The drive times to these facilities are crucial factors in assessing healthcare access. For instance, the drive to Hawkins County Memorial Hospital in Rogersville, the closest full-service hospital, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Further afield, Knoxville, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive via **Highway 25E** and **Interstate 81**, offers a wider array of specialized breast cancer care options. This includes the University of Tennessee Medical Center and several private oncology practices. The longer drive time to Knoxville, however, presents a significant challenge, especially for patients undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects that make driving difficult.

Public transportation options in Eidson are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system within Hancock County. The lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or cannot afford the costs associated with owning and operating a car. This limitation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Knoxville area. However, their availability in Eidson and the surrounding rural areas is often unreliable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles within ride-sharing services in this area is uncertain, posing challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance with travel to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and American Medical Response. These services typically provide non-emergency medical transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required. The insurance coverage for medical transportation also varies depending on the individual's plan and the specific service provider.

The absence of robust public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services underscore the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for transportation barriers to healthcare access in Eidson. The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially for specialized care like breast cancer treatment, can be significant, adding to the stress and burden on patients.

The availability of healthcare professionals and facilities within a reasonable distance is another crucial factor. While Hawkins County Memorial Hospital offers basic medical services, including some cancer care, the need for specialized breast cancer treatment often necessitates travel to Knoxville or other regional centers. The proximity of these facilities and the drive times involved directly impact the timeliness of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The breast cancer score for Eidson, TN, is therefore influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical transportation services all contribute to the overall assessment. The longer drive times to specialized care facilities in Knoxville add to the challenges faced by patients.

For individuals considering moving to Eidson, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. Access to a reliable vehicle, or the ability to arrange for transportation, is crucial for receiving timely and effective breast cancer care. Planning for the costs associated with transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential ride-sharing or medical transportation fees, is also important.

The healthcare landscape in Eidson, TN, presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. While the rural setting and limited transportation options pose obstacles, the availability of specialized care within a reasonable distance, coupled with the potential for medical transportation services, offers a degree of healthcare access. Residents and those considering moving to the area must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure they can access the care they require. This assessment highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access, particularly for those navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment.