37860, Russellville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37860, Russellville, Tennessee is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.51 percent of residents in 37860 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morristown Hamblen Hospital Association with a distance of 6.20 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Russellville, TN (ZIP Code 37860)

For anyone considering a move to Russellville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37860), understanding the landscape of healthcare access, particularly for a critical condition like breast cancer, is paramount. This “Breast Cancer Score” aims to illuminate the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within and around this community, providing a realistic picture of what to expect when navigating the system. This analysis focuses on the practicalities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support services, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on the ability to reach it. In Russellville, a rural community, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The reliance on a car significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it necessitates a reliable vehicle and the financial resources to maintain it. This is the starting point for understanding transportation challenges.

The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in larger cities like Knoxville, approximately 45 miles away. The primary route to Knoxville from Russellville is via **Highway 61** and then **Interstate 75 South**. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. However, this timeframe can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak commuting hours or in the event of an accident. Delays can be particularly stressful for individuals undergoing treatment, making timely arrival for appointments a constant concern.

Alternative routes exist, but they are generally less direct and may involve navigating smaller, winding roads. For example, taking **Highway 11W** towards Knoxville adds mileage and travel time, and can involve navigating through towns with stoplights and slower speed limits. The choice of route will depend on the specific destination within Knoxville and the individual's preference.

Public transportation options in Russellville and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves the area. This lack of public transit significantly reduces the Breast Cancer Score, as it eliminates a crucial option for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a key consideration for anyone moving to Russellville and relying on public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing for a round trip to Knoxville for an appointment could be substantial, adding a significant financial burden to an already challenging situation. This impacts the affordability of healthcare access, impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these services in Russellville and the surrounding areas should be carefully researched. The cost of medical transportation can be high, and insurance coverage varies. Investigating the availability of these services is a critical step in assessing the Breast Cancer Score.

For individuals requiring specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, the need to travel to Knoxville becomes even more critical. The stress of frequent travel, the potential for delays, and the financial burden of transportation can significantly impact a patient's well-being and adherence to treatment plans. This is a major factor impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

Beyond the physical journey, the availability of support services within Russellville is also crucial. Support groups, counseling services, and access to financial assistance programs can provide invaluable support during treatment and recovery. Investigating the presence of these resources and their accessibility is essential when assessing the Breast Cancer Score.

The proximity of a local hospital is also a factor. While Russellville has a small medical facility, it may not offer the full range of cancer care services. This underscores the importance of understanding the referral pathways and the ability to access specialized care in Knoxville or other regional centers.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just about the distance to treatment centers; it is about the entire healthcare ecosystem. It encompasses the availability of transportation, the affordability of care, the presence of support services, and the overall accessibility of the system.

For someone considering moving to Russellville, a thorough investigation into the transportation options, the availability of medical services, and the presence of support networks is essential. This includes researching the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and the cost of travel.

The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic assessment that requires ongoing monitoring. Changes in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of medical services, and the availability of support programs can all impact the score. Staying informed about these changes is essential for anyone living with or at risk of breast cancer in Russellville.

The journey to healthcare in Russellville is a complex one, and the Breast Cancer Score is a tool to help navigate it. It highlights the importance of careful planning, proactive research, and a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to survival.