38571, Crossville, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 38571, Crossville, Tennessee is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.46 percent of residents in 38571 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cumberland Medical Center with a distance of 6.05 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 38571

Considering a move to Crossville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38571)? The Cumberland Plateau offers a tranquil lifestyle, but assessing healthcare access is crucial, especially concerning breast cancer. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" framework, evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities equipped for diagnosis and treatment. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility in this rural environment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment considering factors influencing timely access to breast cancer-related healthcare. These factors include the availability of transportation, the proximity of medical facilities, and the efficiency of reaching those facilities. The goal is to empower informed decisions about healthcare access when considering a move to Crossville.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Crossville's primary thoroughfare is Interstate 40 (I-40), a vital east-west artery. Accessing specialized breast cancer care often necessitates travel outside the immediate ZIP code. Driving to facilities in Knoxville or Nashville becomes a significant consideration.

From Crossville, the drive to Knoxville, home to the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC), a comprehensive cancer center, is approximately 90-120 minutes via I-40 East. This journey can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours. The UTMC offers advanced imaging, surgical, and radiation oncology services, making it a central hub for specialized care.

Nashville, roughly 110-140 minutes southwest via I-40 West, hosts Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, another prominent facility. This drive presents similar traffic considerations, and the choice between Knoxville and Nashville often depends on individual preferences, insurance coverage, and the specific treatment needs.

Within Crossville, the primary route to Cumberland Medical Center (CMC) is likely via West Avenue or North Main Street. CMC offers general medical services, including some diagnostic imaging, but for specialized breast cancer treatment, referrals to larger centers are common. Drive times within Crossville are typically manageable, rarely exceeding 15-20 minutes.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in 38571 is limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides a demand-response transit service, primarily for elderly and disabled individuals. This service, while available, requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical appointments.

The UCHRA's routes are not fixed-route bus lines. Instead, they operate on a reservation system, offering door-to-door service within the service area. The availability and scheduling of these services can be a major constraint, especially when facing the urgency of a breast cancer diagnosis or treatment. ADA accessibility is a feature of these vehicles, ensuring access for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Crossville, providing an alternative to public transit. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular appointments could be unreliable.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or local ambulance services, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing but offer a higher level of reliability and assistance, including door-to-door service and assistance with mobility.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in 38571: A Summary**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 38571 reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. While Crossville offers local medical services, specialized breast cancer care necessitates travel to larger cities like Knoxville or Nashville. Drive times are significant, and public transit options are limited, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Ride-sharing provides some flexibility, but its reliability is not guaranteed. Medical transport services offer a more dependable alternative but come with higher costs. The overall score suggests that individuals considering a move to Crossville should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare coverage, especially if they have a history of breast cancer or are at high risk.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape: Considerations for Moving to Crossville**

For those considering moving to Crossville, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Before relocating, research the availability of specialists, the acceptance of your insurance plan, and the accessibility of transportation to treatment centers.

Consider the potential for needing regular appointments, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. Factor in the time commitment and travel expenses associated with these appointments.

Explore the availability of local support groups and resources for breast cancer patients. These groups can provide valuable emotional support and practical assistance, including information on transportation options.

**Conclusion: Informed Decisions for Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of thorough research when considering healthcare access in 38571. While Crossville offers a welcoming community, the limitations in transportation and the need for travel to specialized centers necessitate careful planning. By understanding the available options and proactively addressing potential challenges, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive timely and appropriate care. The key is to prioritize healthcare access alongside the allure of a new community, ensuring a smooth transition and peace of mind.