37879, Tazewell, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37879, Tazewell, Tennessee is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.32 percent of residents in 37879 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claiborne Medical Center with a distance of 3.00 miles from the area.

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, becomes a critical factor when considering relocation, especially in a rural setting like Tazewell, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37879). This "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely healthcare access. For those contemplating moving to Tazewell, understanding these nuances is paramount.

The primary challenge in ZIP Code 37879 is its relative isolation. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Knoxville, approximately 50 to 60 miles away, significantly impacting transportation and healthcare access. The most direct route involves navigating the winding roads, beginning with US-25E, a vital artery for Tazewell residents. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours, potentially adding to the commute time.

Continuing south on US-25E, the route merges onto I-75, a major interstate highway. The interstate provides a more efficient, albeit potentially congested, path to Knoxville. Drive times to Knoxville vary depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. Expect a minimum of 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes under optimal conditions. However, during rush hour, or in the event of an accident, this time can easily extend, creating additional stress for patients.

Public transportation options in Tazewell are limited. The primary resource is the Claiborne County Public Transit, offering demand-response services. However, these services are not designed for frequent, long-distance trips to Knoxville for cancer treatment. Furthermore, ADA accessibility varies depending on the vehicle and the specific route, requiring careful planning and coordination. Riders should contact the transit authority in advance to confirm accessibility features and schedule their trips. This lack of robust public transportation significantly affects the healthcare access score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tazewell, but their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. Availability is often contingent on driver presence in the area, which may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening. The cost of a ride-share to Knoxville can be substantial, potentially becoming a significant financial burden for patients undergoing treatment. This financial constraint, coupled with the uncertainty of availability, further complicates healthcare access.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans or First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and can be expensive. The cost depends on the distance, the type of vehicle required, and the specific services provided. While medical transportation offers a reliable alternative, it also adds to the overall financial and logistical burden of accessing healthcare.

Considering the drive times, the limited public transit, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation, the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 37879 is moderately low. The geographic isolation and the dependence on personal vehicles or costly alternatives create challenges for timely healthcare access. This score underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration for anyone moving to Tazewell, particularly those with a history of or a high risk for breast cancer.

The location of cancer care facilities within Knoxville also influences the overall accessibility. The University of Tennessee Medical Center and Parkwest Medical Center are two prominent facilities offering comprehensive cancer care. The drive times to these facilities vary depending on the starting point within Tazewell and the specific route taken through Knoxville. The journey from Tazewell to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, for example, often involves navigating I-75 and then local roads, potentially adding to the commute time.

The availability of support services in Tazewell is also a crucial factor. While Tazewell may not have specialized cancer support groups or resource centers, the proximity to Knoxville offers access to a broader range of services. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and local hospitals in Knoxville provide valuable resources, including support groups, educational materials, and financial assistance programs. However, accessing these services requires transportation, further emphasizing the importance of addressing the transportation challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Tazewell, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. This includes evaluating their risk factors for breast cancer, their insurance coverage, and their ability to manage the transportation logistics. The decision to move should be made with a clear understanding of the challenges associated with accessing timely and affordable healthcare.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static measure. It can be improved through various initiatives. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanding the Claiborne County Public Transit's services and improving ADA accessibility, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Encouraging ride-sharing companies to increase their presence in Tazewell could also provide more affordable and convenient transportation options.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and remote monitoring could reduce the need for frequent in-person visits to Knoxville. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the burden of travel and improving access to care. However, telehealth requires reliable internet access, which may be limited in some areas of Tazewell.

The healthcare access score for breast cancer patients in Tazewell is influenced by the interplay of transportation options, the location of cancer care facilities, and the availability of support services. The limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternatives, and the geographic isolation create significant challenges. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to Tazewell, particularly those with a history of or a high risk for breast cancer.