37920, Knoxville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37920, Knoxville, Tennessee is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.94 percent of residents in 37920 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Health System, Inc with a distance of 3.10 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 37920

Considering a move to Knoxville, Tennessee, and worried about healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 37920, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing crucial medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely and convenient healthcare.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a composite assessment of accessibility. It considers the time and effort required to reach key healthcare providers specializing in breast cancer care. This includes factors like drive times, public transportation efficiency, and the availability of alternative transportation options. The higher the score, the better the perceived access.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 37920 is the automobile. The sprawling nature of Knoxville and its surrounding areas necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. Assessing drive times to major medical facilities is therefore critical.

Residents in 37920 have relatively convenient access to several major hospitals and clinics. Driving to the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC), a leading cancer center, typically takes between 10-20 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. The primary routes involve navigating major thoroughfares like Kingston Pike, a bustling commercial artery, and I-640, a key interstate connecting various parts of Knoxville.

Another prominent option is Parkwest Medical Center, also offering comprehensive cancer services. Drive times to Parkwest are generally similar to those for UTMC, ranging from 10-20 minutes, often utilizing the heavily trafficked Middlebrook Pike and Northshore Drive. These roads, while offering direct access, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Furthermore, the drive to Covenant Health, a large healthcare system with multiple locations, can be achieved via various routes, including I-75, and usually takes between 15-30 minutes. This longer travel time highlights the importance of considering location within 37920 when assessing healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) provides public transportation within the city, offering a crucial alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. However, the effectiveness of KAT for healthcare access in 37920 requires careful consideration.

Several KAT routes service the area, including routes 11, 12, and 22, which traverse key areas of 37920. These routes, while providing a connection to downtown and other parts of Knoxville, may not directly serve all major medical facilities. Passengers may need to transfer routes, adding to travel time and potentially increasing the complexity of their journey.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a significant positive aspect of KAT, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transportation. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially hindering healthcare access for those needing appointments outside of typical business hours.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation alternative. These services can provide convenient door-to-door transportation, especially for those unable to drive or who find public transit inconvenient. The availability of these services in 37920 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could potentially impact the affordability of transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or other medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance and level of care required. Several providers operate in the Knoxville area, including AMR and MedTrans.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Composite View**

Based on the factors discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for 37920 is moderately favorable. The proximity to major hospitals and cancer centers, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing services, provides relatively good access. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit, particularly regarding frequency and direct routes to medical facilities, present challenges.

**Moving to Knoxville: Considerations for Breast Cancer Care**

For those considering moving to Knoxville and concerned about breast cancer care, 37920 offers a mixed bag. The key is to carefully consider your individual transportation needs and preferences. If you rely on public transportation, proximity to bus routes and the ability to navigate transfers are crucial. If you prefer driving, assess the potential for traffic congestion and plan your routes accordingly.

Understanding the local healthcare landscape, including the specific services offered by different providers, is also essential. Researching the availability of specialists, appointment scheduling processes, and insurance coverage can help you make informed decisions.

The Breast Cancer Score for 37920 is a starting point. By understanding the transportation options and healthcare resources available, you can make informed choices about your healthcare needs and ensure timely access to the care you deserve. Remember to factor in your personal circumstances, including your ability to drive, your access to public transit, and your budget for ride-sharing or medical transport services.