38058, Munford, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 38058, Munford, Tennessee is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.44 percent of residents in 38058 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital Tipton with a distance of 9.47 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Munford, TN (ZIP Code 38058)

The decision to move, especially to a new community, often hinges on factors beyond the charm of the neighborhood and the affordability of housing. For individuals and families, especially those concerned about healthcare access, the ease of navigating the local transportation landscape becomes a critical consideration. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 38058 (Munford, Tennessee), focusing on the accessibility of breast cancer screening and treatment facilities, considering the existing transportation options available.

Munford, a growing suburb, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to the bustling metropolitan area of Memphis. However, the accessibility of specialized healthcare services, particularly for conditions like breast cancer, requires a careful evaluation of transportation infrastructure. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary concern for residents of Munford, Tennessee, seeking breast cancer care is the distance to comprehensive facilities. The nearest hospitals equipped with advanced imaging technologies, surgical expertise, and oncology services are primarily located in Memphis. Therefore, the "Breast Cancer Score" hinges on the ease of transportation to these crucial destinations.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation for residents of Munford is personal vehicles. Accessing Memphis typically involves traveling via several key roadways. The primary route is Interstate 40 (I-40), a major east-west artery. The drive to Memphis via I-40 can range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The secondary route is Highway 51, which provides a more direct route to downtown Memphis, but can be subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This route typically takes 40 to 55 minutes.

Other local roads, such as Munford-Gilt Edge Road and Brighton Road, offer access to Highway 51 and I-40. However, these roads are primarily designed for local traffic and may add significant time to the commute. The time of day, the day of the week, and the presence of traffic incidents will significantly affect drive times.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options within Munford and connecting to Memphis are limited. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) operates bus routes within the city of Memphis, but there are no direct routes that extend to Munford. This deficiency presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." It makes it difficult for individuals to access healthcare facilities, especially those with mobility limitations or who cannot afford the expenses of owning and maintaining a vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Memphis area, including Munford. However, the availability of these services can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. Companies like CareRide and First Medical Transportation are available in the Memphis area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility needs. However, medical transport services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Munford, TN (38058) reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While the proximity to Memphis offers access to comprehensive healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but these options come with their own limitations in terms of cost and availability.

**ADA Accessibility:**

It is important to consider the accessibility of transportation options for individuals with disabilities. While ride-sharing services often offer accessible vehicle options, availability may be limited. Medical transportation services typically provide vehicles equipped with accessibility features. The lack of public transit options with ADA-compliant features is a significant concern for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Moving to Munford and Healthcare Access:**

For those considering moving to Munford, TN, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of factoring in transportation costs and the potential challenges of accessing specialized medical services. While Munford offers a desirable lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning for healthcare needs.

**Recommendations:**

Individuals considering moving to Munford, or residents already living there, should proactively address their healthcare access needs. This includes:

* **Researching Insurance Coverage:** Ensuring adequate insurance coverage to cover transportation costs and medical expenses.
* **Establishing a Transportation Plan:** Identifying reliable transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.
* **Exploring Support Networks:** Connecting with local support groups or organizations that may offer transportation assistance.
* **Advocating for Public Transit:** Supporting efforts to expand public transit options to improve healthcare access for all residents.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Munford, TN (38058) highlights the critical relationship between transportation and healthcare access. While the proximity to Memphis provides access to comprehensive breast cancer care, the transportation challenges require careful planning and proactive measures. By understanding the existing transportation options and addressing potential barriers, residents of Munford can ensure timely access to the healthcare services they need. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that must be considered in the context of individual circumstances and the evolving transportation landscape.