38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.00 percent of residents in 38552 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.22 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chestnut Mound, TN (ZIP Code 38552)**

Chestnut Mound, Tennessee, a small, rural community nestled in the heart of Smith County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking breast cancer healthcare. Understanding the challenges and opportunities related to **transportation** and **healthcare access** is paramount for those considering **moving to Chestnut Mound** or currently residing within its borders. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” reflecting the accessibility of vital services, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative **transportation** options.

The “Breast Cancer Score” isn’t a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential breast cancer healthcare. This encompasses screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The score considers the geographical limitations of the area, the availability of different **transportation** modes, and the overall healthcare infrastructure.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Arteries of Care**

The primary challenge for Chestnut Mound residents lies in its relative isolation. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Cookeville, Lebanon, and Nashville, each presenting varying drive times depending on traffic and road conditions.

Reaching Cookeville Regional Medical Center, a key healthcare hub, typically involves a drive along TN-56 South. This route, while scenic, can be winding and subject to delays. Expect a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the starting point within the ZIP code. The distance is roughly 25 miles.

Traveling to Lebanon, home to University Medical Center, necessitates navigating a more complex network of roads. The most direct route involves taking TN-56 North to TN-26. This journey can take between 45 minutes to an hour, covering a distance of approximately 35-40 miles.

Nashville, the regional center for specialized care, presents the longest drive times. Reaching Vanderbilt University Medical Center or Saint Thomas Hospital, for example, involves a drive of approximately 70-90 miles. The most common route is TN-56 North to I-40 West, a major interstate that can experience significant congestion, particularly during peak hours. The drive time can easily exceed an hour and a half, making it a significant barrier to frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transit options in Smith County are extremely limited. The absence of a dedicated public bus system poses a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. This lack of **transportation** options disproportionately affects individuals with mobility limitations, the elderly, and those with limited financial resources.

While there isn't a comprehensive public transit network, the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) might offer limited demand-response services. These services, if available, require advance booking and are often restricted in scope and operating hours. These services typically do not have ADA features like ramps or lifts.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in rural areas can be inconsistent. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The **transportation** expense can become a major burden.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility challenges and can provide door-to-door service. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Healthcare Access and the Breast Cancer Score**

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Chestnut Mound is, therefore, moderate. While comprehensive breast cancer care is available within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** present significant challenges. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options can delay or prevent timely access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

For individuals considering **moving to Chestnut Mound** or those already residing there, it is crucial to assess their **transportation** capabilities and financial resources. The ability to drive or access reliable **transportation** is a critical factor in ensuring timely and consistent access to breast cancer healthcare.

**Recommendations for Enhancing Healthcare Access**

Several strategies could improve the “Breast Cancer Score” for Chestnut Mound residents.

* **Advocating for Expanded Public Transit:** Supporting initiatives to establish or expand public transit services, including routes to Cookeville, Lebanon, and Nashville, could significantly improve **healthcare access**.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Awareness:** Educating residents about the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services is crucial.
* **Supporting Telehealth Initiatives:** Encouraging the adoption of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, could reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Community Partnerships:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local businesses to develop innovative **transportation** solutions. This could include carpooling programs, volunteer driver networks, or subsidized **transportation** options.
* **Financial Assistance Programs:** Increasing awareness of and access to financial assistance programs that help cover the cost of **transportation** to medical appointments.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Chestnut Mound residents face a unique set of challenges when it comes to accessing breast cancer healthcare. The “Breast Cancer Score” highlights the importance of understanding these challenges and proactively addressing them. By carefully considering the available **transportation** options, the financial implications, and the potential impact on healthcare access, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Chestnut Mound have equitable access to the vital services they need, regardless of their **transportation** limitations.