37846, Philadelphia, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37846, Philadelphia, Tennessee is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.41 percent of residents in 37846 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sweetwater Hospital Association with a distance of 5.24 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 37846**

Understanding healthcare access is crucial, especially when considering a move or assessing the needs of a community. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 37846, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options to facilities providing breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This score reflects the ease with which residents can reach these vital services. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

ZIP code 37846, encompassing the town of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area is known for its scientific and technological contributions, but its healthcare infrastructure, particularly concerning specialized services like breast cancer care, requires careful examination. Our score will help prospective residents understand the realities of accessing potentially life-saving treatments.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in this area is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars necessitates an understanding of drive times to relevant medical facilities. The most direct route to Knoxville, a major healthcare hub, involves navigating Interstate 75 (I-75) south. This highway is a major artery, providing relatively smooth transit, although traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

To reach facilities offering breast cancer services, such as those affiliated with the University of Tennessee Medical Center or Covenant Health, residents of 37846 will typically drive south on I-75. The drive to Knoxville can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. Local roads like Oak Ridge Turnpike (Highway 58) offer alternative routes, but these often involve more stop-and-go traffic and may add to the overall travel time.

Another important road is Pellissippi Parkway (Highway 162), which connects Oak Ridge to West Knoxville. This route offers access to several medical facilities and can sometimes be a faster alternative to I-75, especially when heading to destinations in the western part of Knoxville. The drive time on Pellissippi Parkway can vary, but it typically falls within the 25- to 40-minute range.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation in 37846 is limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides some service to Oak Ridge, but the routes and frequency are not as extensive as in larger urban areas. This limitation can restrict healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility challenges or who cannot drive.

KAT Route 20, the Oak Ridge route, provides some connection to Knoxville. However, the schedule may not align with the appointment times of healthcare facilities, and the travel time can be considerably longer than driving. Additionally, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While KAT strives to offer accessible services, the limited route options and potential for longer travel times can still create barriers to healthcare access.

The lack of a robust public transit system underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation options, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor in our Breast Cancer Score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, especially for those who need to schedule appointments or require on-demand transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. In a more suburban setting, the wait times for ride-share services may be longer than in a major city.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be crucial for patients undergoing treatment or needing assistance getting to and from appointments. The cost of medical transport can be a significant factor, so it is vital to explore insurance coverage and available financial assistance programs.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for 37846 considers all these factors. It assesses the ease of access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities. This score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents in their healthcare journey. The score will consider the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options.

The score will also take into account the proximity of facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care, including mammography, biopsies, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, will also be factored in.

**Moving to Philadelphia: A Contrast in Healthcare Access**

When considering a move, it's helpful to compare healthcare access in different locations. If you are considering moving to Philadelphia, you will find a stark contrast in healthcare access. Philadelphia boasts a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, subways, and regional rail lines, making it easier to reach medical facilities. The city also has a higher density of hospitals and specialized clinics, offering a wider range of healthcare options.

Philadelphia's access to healthcare is significantly higher due to its comprehensive public transit, the presence of numerous hospitals, and its high population density. This stands in contrast to 37846, where healthcare access is more dependent on personal vehicles and limited public transit.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in 37846**

The Breast Cancer Score for 37846 highlights the importance of considering transportation options when assessing healthcare access. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges for some residents. Ride-sharing services and medical transport can help fill the gaps, but their availability and cost must be considered.

Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, prospective movers, and policymakers. By acknowledging the complexities of healthcare access, we can work toward improving the community's ability to support those facing breast cancer and other health challenges. The score will offer a valuable tool for individuals making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and for community leaders seeking to improve healthcare access for all residents.