The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37804, Maryville, Tennessee is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
65.70 percent of residents in 37804 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.24 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37804, Maryville, Tennessee
COPD Score | 44 |
---|---|
People Score | 22 |
Provider Score | 73 |
Hospital Score | 33 |
Travel Score | 56 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37804 | Maryville | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.42 | 0.52 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 13.25 | 13.86 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 42.00 | 39.21 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 44.33 | 46.40 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37804, Maryville, Tennessee
**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37804**
Breathing, the very essence of life, becomes a daily struggle for those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In the serene foothills of the Smoky Mountains, life in Maryville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37804), offers a picturesque backdrop, but the reality of navigating healthcare access for COPD patients paints a more complex picture. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, a critical determinant of healthcare access, offering a "COPD Score" assessment for residents of this area.
The COPD Score considers the ease of reaching essential medical appointments, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. It evaluates the availability and accessibility of various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing COPD in this specific geographic location.
For those with COPD, every journey to a healthcare provider is a potential hurdle. The physical exertion of travel can exacerbate symptoms, while unpredictable delays can lead to anxiety and frustration. The availability of reliable and accessible transportation becomes paramount. The COPD Score framework aims to quantify these factors, providing a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Maryville, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access.
**Personal Vehicle: The Dominant Mode**
In Maryville, the personal vehicle reigns supreme. The primary arteries for navigating the area are US-411, US-129, and TN-35. These roadways provide direct access to the major healthcare facilities, including Blount Memorial Hospital, a cornerstone of medical care in the region. Drive times, however, are subject to the vagaries of traffic, particularly during peak hours.
The journey from various residential areas within 37804 to Blount Memorial Hospital can range from a brisk five-minute drive to a more extended twenty-minute commute, depending on the starting point and traffic conditions. For COPD patients, even these seemingly short distances can be challenging. The physical strain of driving, coupled with the potential for traffic-induced stress, can significantly impact their well-being.
Navigating the roads in Maryville requires careful planning. While the roads are generally well-maintained, the mountainous terrain can present challenges, particularly during inclement weather. The availability of ample parking at healthcare facilities is another crucial consideration. For individuals with mobility limitations, accessibility features like designated parking spaces and accessible entrances are essential.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
The public transportation landscape in Maryville, and the broader Blount County, presents a more limited picture. The primary provider is the Blount County Transit (BCT), offering bus routes that serve the area. However, the routes are not extensive, and the frequency of service can be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.
BCT routes are numbered, and while the specific routes and schedules are subject to change, the system generally provides some coverage within the 37804 ZIP code. However, the availability of routes directly serving healthcare facilities may be limited, necessitating transfers and potentially extending travel times.
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for COPD patients. BCT buses are equipped with accessibility features, including ramps or lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the ease of navigating the bus system with respiratory aids are essential factors to consider.
The limitations of public transit in Maryville underscore the challenges faced by COPD patients who rely on this mode of transportation. The extended travel times, the potential for transfers, and the limited frequency of service can make it difficult to attend medical appointments and participate in pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option in Maryville. The availability of these services can vary, and the cost can be a significant factor for individuals with limited incomes. However, ride-sharing can provide a more convenient and flexible option than public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations.
Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized transportation providers, cater specifically to the needs of individuals with medical conditions. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and carrying medical equipment.
The cost of medical transportation services can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited. However, for COPD patients who require specialized assistance, these services can be a vital lifeline. The COPD Score considers the availability and affordability of these services, as well as the ease of accessing them.
**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**
The COPD Score for transportation access in ZIP Code 37804 is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the factors discussed above. It considers the following key elements:
* **Drive Times:** The average drive times from various residential areas within 37804 to major healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of BCT routes serving healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The availability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability, cost, and ease of accessing medical transportation services.
* **Road Conditions and Parking:** The condition of roads, the availability of parking at healthcare facilities, and accessibility features.
By evaluating these factors, the COPD Score provides a comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities for COPD patients in Maryville. It serves as a valuable resource for individuals considering moving to the area, as well as for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**
The transportation landscape in Maryville, Tennessee, presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals managing COPD. While the personal vehicle remains the dominant mode of transportation, the limitations of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can pose significant barriers to healthcare access.
The COPD Score framework provides a valuable tool for assessing the transportation needs of COPD patients in this specific geographic location. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and quality of life. Improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation are crucial steps toward creating a more accessible and supportive environment for COPD patients in Maryville and the surrounding areas. The journey to healthcare should be as easy as breathing.
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