37873, Surgoinsville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37873, Surgoinsville, Tennessee is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.86 percent of residents in 37873 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hawkins County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.64 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Surgoinsville (ZIP Code 37873)

Surgoinsville, Tennessee, nestled in the rolling hills of Hawkins County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" in this ZIP code necessitates a deep dive into the available transportation options and their impact on timely access to potentially life-saving care. This analysis examines the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking breast cancer screenings, diagnosis, and treatment, considering the critical role of transportation.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the understanding that early detection significantly improves breast cancer outcomes. This emphasizes the importance of readily available healthcare access, particularly for screenings and follow-up appointments. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services directly influence a patient's ability to receive timely care. The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects the ease or difficulty of navigating these transportation barriers.

For residents of 37873, the primary method of transportation is personal vehicles. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities, including those equipped for breast cancer care, are located in Kingsport and Johnson City. Reaching these centers often involves navigating a network of highways and local roads.

Traveling to Kingsport, the most direct route typically involves using Highway 11W, a major arterial road connecting Surgoinsville to the city. The drive, depending on traffic, can range from 20 to 35 minutes. This journey is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly in the vicinity of Kingsport, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting appointment schedules.

Alternatively, residents might choose to utilize local roads, such as Surgoinsville Road, to access Highway 11W. However, these routes, while offering scenic views, are often narrower and less direct, adding to travel time. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can further complicate the commute.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, the drive to Johnson City, home to larger medical centers, requires a longer journey. This route typically involves taking Highway 11W north to Interstate 26. The total travel time can be between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Johnson City.

This longer commute presents a greater challenge, especially for patients undergoing treatment, who may require frequent visits. The increased travel time can lead to fatigue, and the associated costs of fuel and vehicle maintenance add a financial burden. Moreover, the potential for delays due to traffic or road conditions can cause stress and anxiety for patients.

Public transportation options in Surgoinsville are limited. The Hawkins County Transit Authority provides some services, but the routes and schedules are not specifically tailored for medical appointments. The availability of fixed-route buses is minimal, and the frequency of service may not align with the needs of patients requiring regular healthcare visits.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor in evaluating public transit. While the Hawkins County Transit Authority strives to provide accessible services, the limited scope of its operations may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments or those requiring specialized assistance.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Surgoinsville may be inconsistent. Availability can fluctuate based on driver density and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher fares.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are often equipped to accommodate patients with mobility limitations and can provide door-to-door service. However, the cost of NEMT can be significant, potentially creating a financial barrier for some patients.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Surgoinsville reflects a mixed picture. The primary reliance on personal vehicles presents both advantages and disadvantages. While the drive times to Kingsport are relatively manageable, the longer commutes to Johnson City and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides some relief, but the cost and reliability of these services must be considered.

For individuals moving to Surgoinsville, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. The proximity of Kingsport offers relatively convenient access to healthcare, but the longer distances to specialized facilities in Johnson City require careful planning. Considering the availability of transportation options and the potential costs associated with them is essential for ensuring access to timely and appropriate breast cancer care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Surgoinsville would benefit from improvements in several areas. Expanding public transit options, particularly those with routes and schedules designed to accommodate medical appointments, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Increased availability of ride-sharing services and the promotion of medical transportation programs would also be beneficial.

Investing in road infrastructure, including improvements to local roads and traffic management strategies on Highway 11W, could reduce travel times and improve the overall commuting experience. Furthermore, community outreach programs that provide information about available transportation resources and financial assistance for transportation costs could help to mitigate the barriers faced by patients.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" in Surgoinsville is a dynamic measure, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. By addressing the transportation challenges, the community can improve healthcare access and contribute to better outcomes for individuals facing breast cancer. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is inextricably linked to the ability to receive timely, effective care.