The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 38012, Brownsville, Tennessee is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
61.16 percent of residents in 38012 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lauderdale Community Hospital with a distance of 18.76 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 38012, Brownsville, Tennessee
Breast Cancer Score | 1 |
---|---|
People Score | 10 |
Provider Score | 7 |
Hospital Score | 27 |
Travel Score | 19 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 38012 | Brownsville | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.94 | 2.94 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 21.65 | 21.65 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 44.34 | 44.34 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 31.07 | 31.07 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 38012, Brownsville, Tennessee
**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brownsville, TN (ZIP Code 38012)**
Embarking on a journey to assess healthcare access in Brownsville, Tennessee, ZIP code 38012, is more than a logistical exercise. It's about understanding the realities faced by residents, particularly those confronting the challenges of breast cancer. This "Breast Cancer Score" considers the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty in accessing vital medical services. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the landscape for those considering moving to Brownsville, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.
The primary concern is, of course, timely access to essential medical care. This is especially true for breast cancer patients, who often require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery), and follow-up care. Delays in any of these stages can significantly impact outcomes. The score will therefore evaluate the available transportation options, their reliability, and their accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for those undergoing cancer treatment.
**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**
Brownsville, a charming town in West Tennessee, is predominantly a car-dependent community. This means that the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is the personal vehicle. Assessing drive times to the nearest facilities is paramount. The primary destinations for breast cancer care will likely be Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, TN, or potentially facilities in Memphis, TN.
Traveling to Jackson, approximately 40 miles east, involves navigating US-70, a major east-west thoroughfare. The drive typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. US-70 is generally well-maintained, but occasional congestion, especially during peak hours, can affect travel times. The route is mostly straightforward, but the rural nature of the area can mean limited services along the way.
Memphis, about 70 miles west, presents a more complex transportation challenge. The most direct route is via I-40, a major interstate highway. The drive, usually taking 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, can vary significantly. Rush hour traffic, particularly around the Memphis metropolitan area, can dramatically extend travel times. The I-40 corridor is also prone to occasional accidents, further disrupting travel.
**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**
Public transportation options in Brownsville are extremely limited. The availability of a robust public transit system, crucial for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive, is a significant factor in healthcare access. Currently, there is no established public bus system operating within Brownsville or providing regular service to Jackson or Memphis. This lack of public transit severely limits options for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.
The absence of a public transit system places a greater burden on individuals and their families, requiring them to rely on friends, family, or other alternative transportation options. This can create significant logistical challenges, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that make driving difficult or impossible. ADA-compliant features are not applicable in this scenario, as there is no public transit.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Brownsville, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. While these services offer a potential alternative to driving, their cost and potential wait times can be significant barriers, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in the evenings, may also be limited.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the area, including those that provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be booked in advance and often offer door-to-door service, which is a significant advantage for individuals with mobility limitations. However, medical transportation services can be expensive and may require pre-authorization from insurance companies.
**Medical Transportation Brands**
* **Care Ride:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Transit:** Provides various transportation solutions, including medical transport, in some areas.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** While primarily for emergency situations, some local ambulance services may offer non-emergency transport.
**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**
The "Breast Cancer Score" for Brownsville, TN, ZIP code 38012, must consider all these factors. The score will reflect the challenges faced by breast cancer patients in accessing timely and convenient healthcare. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving transportation landscape and the availability of healthcare resources.
The score will consider:
* **Drive times:** To the nearest hospitals and cancer centers.
* **Public transit availability:** The absence of a public transit system will significantly lower the score.
* **Ride-sharing reliability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical transportation options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transportation services.
* **Accessibility:** The ease of access for individuals with disabilities.
* **Cost:** The financial burden of transportation costs.
**Moving to Brownsville: A Consideration for Healthcare**
For individuals considering moving to Brownsville, the "Breast Cancer Score" should be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. The score will provide a clear picture of the healthcare access challenges they may face. It will highlight the need for a reliable personal vehicle or the potential reliance on alternative transportation options.
For those already residing in Brownsville, the score can serve as a guide for navigating the healthcare system. It can help them identify the most accessible healthcare providers and explore available transportation resources. It can also empower them to advocate for improved transportation options and healthcare access in their community.
**Conclusion: A Call for Action**
The "Breast Cancer Score" for Brownsville, TN, ZIP code 38012, is a call for action. It highlights the need for increased investment in transportation infrastructure and healthcare resources. It underscores the importance of addressing the healthcare access challenges faced by breast cancer patients and other vulnerable populations. Improving transportation options, expanding healthcare services, and increasing awareness of available resources are essential steps toward creating a healthier and more equitable community. The score, therefore, is not just an assessment; it's a roadmap for positive change.
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