37853, Rockford, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37853, Rockford, Tennessee is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.35 percent of residents in 37853 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.68 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rockford, TN (ZIP Code 37853)

The crisp air of Rockford, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offers a picturesque backdrop for life. But for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the beauty of this setting hinges on a critical factor: reliable transportation to access healthcare. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 37853, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities for those with respiratory challenges. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering moving to Rockford or seeking to improve their healthcare access within the community.

The cornerstone of this assessment focuses on drive times, the primary mode of transportation for many residents. Rockford itself is a small community, making local travel relatively straightforward. However, specialized healthcare often necessitates journeys to Knoxville, the nearest major city, approximately 20 miles away. This journey, while seemingly short, can present significant challenges for COPD patients, particularly during peak traffic hours or adverse weather conditions.

Primary routes to Knoxville from Rockford include the highly trafficked **US-411** and **US-441**. Navigating these highways demands careful planning. Delays are common, especially during rush hour, which can significantly impact a COPD patient's ability to manage their condition. A sudden increase in stress or anxiety can trigger breathing difficulties, making a delayed commute a serious health concern.

The drive along **US-411**, a major artery connecting Rockford to Maryville and Knoxville, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. **US-441**, while a shorter route, is often congested, especially near the University of Tennessee campus. This presents an additional layer of complexity, requiring careful consideration of travel times and the potential for unexpected delays.

Secondary roads, such as **Old Knoxville Highway** and **Wears Valley Road**, offer alternative routes, but they may involve winding roads and potential for increased travel time, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. These roads, though scenic, might not be ideal for individuals with compromised respiratory function.

Public transportation, while available, presents a different set of considerations. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides bus service to and from Rockford, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, the frequency of routes and the travel time to reach specialized medical facilities in Knoxville need careful evaluation.

KAT Route 11, for example, serves the Rockford area, but its schedule and frequency should be carefully examined. This route may not operate on weekends or evenings, limiting healthcare access during those times. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit is typically longer than driving, potentially exacerbating COPD symptoms due to increased exposure to environmental factors.

The KAT system is committed to providing accessible transportation. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the transfer times and the walking distances to and from bus stops must be considered, particularly for those with limited mobility or breathing difficulties.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Their availability and cost-effectiveness in Rockford and the surrounding areas should be assessed. While ride-sharing provides door-to-door service, the cost can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility or health concerns, represent another avenue for healthcare access. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs. Several medical transport brands operate in the Knoxville area, including companies that offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).

These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles, and may offer oxygen support or other medical assistance during the ride. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak hours or for last-minute appointments.

The "COPD Score" for transportation in Rockford, TN (37853) is not a simple numerical value. It's a multifaceted evaluation that weighs the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation option. The drive times, the frequency of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to the overall score.

For individuals with COPD, the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. The assessment of transportation options is crucial for making informed decisions about moving to Rockford or optimizing healthcare access within the community. The ideal scenario involves a combination of readily available transportation choices, including driving, public transit, and ride-sharing, coupled with affordable medical transport services.

The evaluation of healthcare access in Rockford should also include the proximity of healthcare facilities. The availability of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and respiratory therapists within a reasonable distance is essential. The presence of hospitals with specialized respiratory care units and emergency services is also critical.

The quality of life for individuals with COPD in Rockford is directly linked to their ability to navigate the transportation landscape. Careful planning, awareness of available resources, and proactive measures to address potential challenges are essential for ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to a fulfilling life.

In conclusion, the "COPD Score" for Rockford, TN (37853) highlights the importance of considering transportation options when assessing healthcare access. While the community offers a tranquil setting, the reliance on driving and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals managing COPD. A comprehensive understanding of drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services is essential for ensuring that residents with COPD can access the healthcare they need. For those considering moving to Rockford, a thorough evaluation of these factors is critical to ensure a successful and healthy transition.