37714, Caryville, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37714, Caryville, Tennessee is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.89 percent of residents in 37714 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lafollette Medical Center with a distance of 8.71 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Caryville (ZIP Code 37714)

The air hangs heavy in the Appalachian foothills, a reality for residents of Caryville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37714). For those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the struggle for breath is compounded by the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a "COPD Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which individuals in this area can reach essential medical services, especially pulmonology and respiratory care, crucial for managing their condition. Considering **moving to Caryville**? Understanding these nuances is paramount.

Caryville, nestled in Campbell County, presents a unique landscape. The town itself is small, but the surrounding terrain, marked by winding roads and mountainous regions, significantly impacts the ability to access healthcare. The "COPD Score" here considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents. The primary arteries for navigating Caryville are Interstate 75 (I-75) and State Route 63 (SR-63). I-75 provides a crucial link to Knoxville, a major healthcare hub approximately 40-50 miles south. SR-63 offers a more direct route to LaFollette, the county seat, and other smaller towns.

The drive to Knoxville, while relatively straightforward, can be impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours. The journey on I-75, though generally well-maintained, can become treacherous during inclement weather, like snow or ice, common in this region. This can significantly delay travel times, posing a challenge for individuals with COPD who may require urgent medical attention.

LaFollette, offering local healthcare options, is a shorter drive, typically 10-15 minutes via SR-63. However, the range of specialized services, particularly pulmonology, is more limited. Residents often need to travel to Knoxville for specialized care, increasing the burden on **healthcare access**.

Public transit options are extremely limited in Caryville. The Campbell County Public Transportation system provides some services, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily serving the needs of the elderly and disabled. The system operates a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their rides in advance. This can be challenging for those with unpredictable health needs.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a concern. While the Campbell County Public Transportation system is required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the limited service and the necessity for advance booking can still present barriers to **healthcare access**. The hilly terrain and lack of sidewalks in many areas further complicate mobility for those with COPD.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Knoxville area but their presence in Caryville is inconsistent. While a ride might be secured, the availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share to Knoxville can also be prohibitive for some, impacting their ability to seek medical care.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with COPD who are unable to drive or use public transit. Several companies operate in the area, including AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services. These services provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and can transport patients to and from medical appointments.

However, the availability of medical transport services can vary. Advance booking is often required, and the cost can be substantial, especially for frequent appointments. The response time of these services can also be affected by the location and the availability of vehicles, potentially delaying access to care.

The "COPD Score" for Caryville, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Knoxville offers access to a wide range of medical specialists, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the inconsistent ride-share availability present significant challenges. The cost and availability of medical transport services are also factors to consider.

The geographical isolation and the lack of readily available **transportation** options create a situation where individuals with COPD may experience difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate care. This can lead to increased hospitalizations, reduced quality of life, and potentially life-threatening complications.

The "COPD Score" for Caryville highlights the need for improved **healthcare access**. This could involve expanding public transit options, increasing the availability of ride-share services, and ensuring the affordability and accessibility of medical transport services. Telemedicine, allowing remote consultations with specialists, could also play a crucial role in bridging the gap in **healthcare access**.

For individuals considering **moving to Caryville** with COPD, careful planning is essential. Assessing the availability of support networks, understanding the local healthcare landscape, and securing reliable **transportation** options are vital for managing their condition effectively.

The journey to healthcare in Caryville is not merely a physical one; it's a complex equation of distance, accessibility, and resources. Understanding the dynamics of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is crucial for those living with COPD, ensuring they can navigate the challenges and receive the vital care they need. The "COPD Score" serves as a reminder that while the beauty of the Appalachian mountains is undeniable, the realities of **healthcare access** must be carefully considered.