37825, New Tazewell, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37825, New Tazewell, Tennessee is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.48 percent of residents in 37825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claiborne Medical Center with a distance of 2.39 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Tazewell, TN (ZIP Code 37825)

The crisp mountain air of New Tazewell, Tennessee, offers a certain allure, drawing individuals seeking a slower pace of life and the embrace of the Appalachian landscape. However, for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of **transportation** to access vital **healthcare access**. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, examines the practicalities of reaching medical facilities from ZIP Code 37825, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative **transportation** options. It's a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating **moving to New Tazewell**, particularly those living with COPD.

The primary concern for COPD patients is timely and reliable access to medical care. Exacerbations can strike suddenly, necessitating immediate attention. This necessitates a thorough evaluation of **transportation** networks. Driving is the most common method. From New Tazewell, the primary routes to larger medical centers involve traversing the winding roads of Claiborne County.

The most direct route to Claiborne Medical Center, the closest hospital, involves a drive of approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code. The journey typically begins on US-25E, a major thoroughfare, before turning onto various local roads. This relatively short drive offers a degree of reassurance for those requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing acute respiratory distress.

For specialized care or services not available locally, residents often travel to Knoxville, a city with a broader range of medical facilities. The journey to Knoxville, a distance of roughly 50 miles, presents a more significant challenge. The most direct route involves heading south on US-25E, then merging onto I-75 South. Drive times vary considerably, typically ranging from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. This extended travel time can be a significant concern for COPD patients, who may experience increased shortness of breath or fatigue during the journey.

Another option involves taking TN-63, which offers a scenic but potentially slower route. This road winds through the mountains, offering picturesque views but adding to the overall travel time. The condition of the roads themselves, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety. Therefore, COPD patients must factor in these variables when planning medical appointments.

Public **transportation** options in New Tazewell are extremely limited. Claiborne County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There is no established bus route that directly serves the area. This dearth of public transit significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. Individuals reliant on public **transportation** for medical appointments face a significant disadvantage.

While traditional public transit is absent, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, although their availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The reliability of ride-sharing, therefore, should not be considered a guaranteed option. Moreover, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, potentially becoming a financial burden for those with limited incomes, further exacerbating the challenges of **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with mobility limitations or medical conditions, offer an alternative. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including companies like First Medical Transportation and MedTrans. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and pre-booking is often required.

When considering **moving to New Tazewell**, individuals with COPD must thoroughly research medical **transportation** options and establish a reliable plan for attending medical appointments. This plan should include backup strategies in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as inclement weather or ride-sharing unavailability.

The "COPD Score" for New Tazewell, TN, ZIP Code 37825, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Claiborne Medical Center offers a degree of convenience, the limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services to reach larger medical facilities in Knoxville pose significant challenges. The availability and cost of medical **transportation** services must be carefully considered.

For those with COPD contemplating **moving to New Tazewell**, a proactive approach is crucial. This includes researching local medical facilities, establishing relationships with healthcare providers, and developing a detailed **transportation** plan that accounts for potential delays and unforeseen circumstances. Understanding the practical realities of **healthcare access** is essential for ensuring a good quality of life in this beautiful but geographically isolated region. The success of **moving to New Tazewell** for a COPD patient hinges on careful planning, proactive communication, and a realistic assessment of the **transportation** landscape.