37938, Knoxville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37938, Knoxville, Tennessee is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.81 percent of residents in 37938 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.28 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 37938**

The journey to healthcare, especially for critical conditions like breast cancer, is a complex equation. It involves more than just the quality of medical professionals; it encompasses the ease with which one can access that care. This write-up examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 37938, a region encompassing parts of Knoxville, Tennessee, to assess its impact on **healthcare access** for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Knoxville**, as it provides a crucial lens through which to view the practical realities of receiving potentially life-saving treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the availability and efficiency of various **transportation** options. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities that residents of 37938 might encounter when seeking breast cancer care.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many, the most direct route to medical appointments involves personal vehicles. In 37938, the primary arteries of travel are the Interstate 640 (I-640), which provides a crucial east-west connection, and the Interstate 75 (I-75), a major north-south corridor. Other key roads include Middlebrook Pike, a busy thoroughfare offering access to commercial areas and medical facilities, and Kingston Pike, another significant road that runs east-west and provides access to the University of Tennessee Medical Center.

Drive times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly on I-640 and I-75, can dramatically increase travel times. For example, a trip from the western edge of 37938 to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major cancer treatment center, could take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours, but easily double or triple during peak traffic. Similarly, travel to facilities located further south, like Parkwest Medical Center, could add considerable time to the journey, especially if navigating the complexities of the Pellissippi Parkway.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) provides public transportation within the city. However, its coverage in 37938 and its surrounding areas is somewhat limited, and the routes may not always be directly aligned with the locations of major cancer treatment centers. Several KAT routes serve the area, including the 11 (Kingston Pike), 12 (Northshore), and 31 (Middlebrook Pike).

These routes, while offering a degree of accessibility, often involve transfers and longer travel times compared to driving. Furthermore, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not be sufficient to meet the needs of patients undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments.

KAT does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit for patients undergoing treatment remain significant considerations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving and public transit. They can be particularly useful for individuals who cannot drive themselves or who need assistance with mobility. The availability of these services in 37938 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could present a financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often include door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans.

**Specific Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

The challenges of **transportation** are magnified for breast cancer patients. Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can cause fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that make driving difficult or impossible. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care necessitate reliable and convenient **transportation** options.

The location of treatment centers relative to a patient's residence is crucial. The University of Tennessee Medical Center, with its comprehensive cancer services, is a primary destination for many patients in the area. Parkwest Medical Center also offers cancer care. The proximity to these facilities, and the ease with which they can be accessed, significantly impacts the patient's experience.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 37938 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major roadways and ride-sharing services provides some advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of medical transport pose challenges. The **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors.

For those considering **moving to Knoxville**, the availability of reliable and affordable **transportation** should be a key consideration, especially if they or a family member may require cancer treatment. Proximity to treatment centers, the ease of navigating the road network, and the availability of alternative transport options all play a critical role in the overall quality of life for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 37938 highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to **transportation** and **healthcare access**. Improving public transit coverage, ensuring the affordability of ride-sharing services, and expanding access to medical transport options could significantly enhance the quality of life for breast cancer patients in the area. As Knoxville continues to grow, addressing these challenges will be essential to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.