37902, Knoxville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37902, Knoxville, Tennessee is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.10 percent of residents in 37902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center with a distance of 0.96 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 37902**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for critical needs like breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It involves more than just the availability of medical professionals. It encompasses the ease of access, the time commitment, and the financial burden of reaching those professionals. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 37902 in Knoxville, Tennessee, delves into the transportation landscape that shapes healthcare access for residents. Considering a move to Knoxville, understanding these dynamics is crucial.

ZIP Code 37902, encompassing downtown Knoxville and surrounding areas, presents a unique transportation environment. The primary arteries for vehicular traffic are Interstate 40 (I-40) and Interstate 75 (I-75), which intersect near the heart of the zip code. These highways, while offering rapid transit for those with cars, can be subject to congestion, especially during peak hours. Navigating these routes to reach healthcare facilities adds to the overall travel time, impacting the "Breast Cancer Score."

Other major roads, such as US-441 (also known as Chapman Highway), and US-11 (also known as Kingston Pike), provide additional routes, but also experience heavy traffic. Surface streets like Gay Street and Cumberland Avenue offer alternative, albeit slower, options. The choice of route significantly impacts the commute, and this variability affects the overall healthcare accessibility.

Public transportation, managed by the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT), provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several bus routes traverse the 37902 area, offering varying levels of accessibility. Route 11, serving the University of Tennessee, and Route 22, connecting downtown to West Knoxville, are among the more frequently used options. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may limit accessibility.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. KAT strives to provide accessible buses and services, but the reliance on bus stops and potential wait times can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This is a critical consideration for anyone needing frequent healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. Their availability in Knoxville is generally good, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some, especially for recurring appointments. This financial burden is a crucial element in the "Breast Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services, like those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, are available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, catering to individuals with specific needs. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and their inclusion in the "Breast Cancer Score" depends on their prevalence and affordability.

The primary healthcare facilities within and around 37902 include the University of Tennessee Medical Center, which provides comprehensive cancer care. Additionally, several private practices and clinics offer specialized breast cancer screening and treatment. The proximity to these facilities is a positive factor, but the ease of reaching them is paramount.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the combined impact of all these factors. It weighs the drive times via I-40, I-75, Chapman Highway, and Kingston Pike, considering peak-hour congestion. It assesses the availability and frequency of KAT bus routes, factoring in ADA accessibility. It accounts for the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation.

The score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of parking, and the overall convenience of reaching these facilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access for residents of 37902, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to breast cancer care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment, influenced by ongoing changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit improvements, and the evolving landscape of healthcare providers. It is a tool for individuals considering a move to Knoxville, helping them understand the realities of healthcare access in the area.

For example, a resident relying on public transportation might face longer commute times, potentially impacting their ability to attend appointments. Conversely, someone with a personal vehicle might experience shorter drive times but still face challenges with parking or traffic congestion. The "Breast Cancer Score" attempts to capture these nuances.

The economic impact of transportation costs is also a crucial element. The financial burden of transportation can significantly affect healthcare access, especially for individuals with limited incomes. This is a critical factor in the "Breast Cancer Score," highlighting the importance of affordable and accessible transportation options.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 37902 is a multi-faceted assessment of healthcare access, considering transportation, healthcare access, and the implications of moving to Knoxville. It is a valuable tool for residents, prospective residents, and policymakers alike, aiming to improve healthcare access and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The score will be a living document, updated as the transportation and healthcare landscapes evolve.