37922, Knoxville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37922, Knoxville, Tennessee is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.18 percent of residents in 37922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkwest Medical Center with a distance of 3.03 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 37922

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, extends far beyond the doctor's office. It encompasses the complexities of transportation, the availability of specialists, and the overall accessibility of care. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 37922 in Knoxville, aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a holistic assessment of healthcare access, considering the nuances of transportation options. Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone considering moving to Knoxville, or for residents seeking the best possible care.

ZIP code 37922, encompassing areas like West Knoxville, offers a diverse landscape of residential neighborhoods and commercial hubs. This presents both opportunities and challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The availability of transportation options significantly influences the ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and follow-up care. This analysis will examine the various modes of transportation available, their associated challenges, and how they impact the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many residents, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. Several major roadways serve 37922, influencing drive times to key healthcare facilities. The primary artery is Interstate 40 (I-40), providing relatively swift access east towards downtown Knoxville and west towards the Farragut area. The congestion, however, is a constant factor. Rush hour, especially during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend travel times, potentially delaying crucial appointments.

Another important thoroughfare is Kingston Pike, a major east-west road that traverses 37922. It provides direct access to many medical offices and hospitals, but the traffic can be heavy, particularly near commercial areas. Other roads, such as Northshore Drive and Pellissippi Parkway, also play a role in healthcare access, offering alternative routes and connections to different parts of the city.

Drive times to key medical centers, such as the University of Tennessee Medical Center, Parkwest Medical Center, and various oncology clinics, are crucial. The distance from different points within 37922 to these facilities varies, but generally, driving times range from 15 to 30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, these times can easily double during peak hours, impacting the convenience and potentially the timeliness of healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Routes**

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) provides public transportation within the city, including routes that serve 37922. However, the network's reach and frequency may not be ideal for all residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those needing frequent appointments. Several KAT routes, including the 11 (Kingston Pike), the 22 (Northshore), and the 31 (West Town Mall), provide access to medical facilities and shopping centers.

The availability of accessible public transit is a critical factor. KAT offers ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service on some routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited. This can pose a challenge for those requiring regular appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments.

The efficiency of public transit also depends on transfer times and overall travel duration. While public transportation can be an economical option, the total travel time, including waiting and transfer times, can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding to the stress and fatigue of patients undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They provide on-demand transportation, allowing patients to schedule rides to and from appointments with relative ease. The availability of these services in 37922 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with mobility. These services are particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transit due to their medical condition. However, these services often come with higher costs and require prior arrangements.

**The Impact on the "Breast Cancer Score"**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 37922 is a multifaceted assessment, considering the interplay of these transportation factors. The score reflects the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, including:

* **Early Detection:** Access to mammography screenings and diagnostic imaging.
* **Diagnosis:** Timely appointments with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists.
* **Treatment:** Access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical procedures.
* **Follow-up Care:** Regular check-ups, monitoring, and support services.

The score considers the availability, affordability, and reliability of transportation options. Factors such as drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options all influence the score. The presence of traffic congestion, limited public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing services can negatively impact the score, potentially hindering timely access to care.

**Conclusion: Moving to Knoxville and Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Knoxville, or for current residents navigating the healthcare system, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While 37922 offers a range of transportation options, challenges remain. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a number; it’s a reflection of the community's commitment to supporting patients through their healthcare journey. The score highlights the need for continuous improvement in transportation infrastructure, public transit services, and the availability of affordable and accessible medical transportation options. By addressing these challenges, Knoxville can enhance healthcare access for all residents, particularly those facing the challenges of breast cancer.