37880, Ten Mile, Tennessee COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 37880, Ten Mile, Tennessee is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.27 percent of residents in 37880 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Roane Medical Center with a distance of 12.93 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ten Mile, TN (ZIP Code 37880)

The crisp air of Ten Mile, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of Roane County, promises a tranquil existence. Yet, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity hinges on a critical factor: seamless **transportation** to **healthcare** facilities. This write-up assesses the **COPD Score** for residents of ZIP Code 37880, focusing on the accessibility of medical care, particularly considering the challenges COPD patients face. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for those considering **moving to Ten Mile** and managing their respiratory health.

The primary artery for **transportation** in and out of Ten Mile is US-70, a vital east-west corridor. Access to medical care in this area is heavily reliant on this highway. The drive to the nearest major hospital, Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville, approximately 45 miles east, can take between an hour and an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating US-70, merging onto I-75 South, and then exiting onto Parkwest Boulevard. The return trip, particularly during peak hours, can be equally challenging.

Another option, although further afield, is the University of Tennessee Medical Center, also in Knoxville. This drive follows a similar route, adding approximately 10-15 minutes to the travel time. While these hospitals offer specialized pulmonary care, the extended travel times can be a significant burden for COPD patients who may require frequent check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, or emergency interventions. For individuals with advanced COPD, the physical strain of such long drives can exacerbate their symptoms.

Local access to healthcare is limited. The immediate vicinity of Ten Mile does not boast a full-service hospital. There are some smaller clinics and primary care physicians within a 15-20 minute drive, reachable via US-70 and local roads like Decatur Highway and Old US-70. However, these facilities may not offer the specialized pulmonary care needed for COPD management. Therefore, the **COPD Score** for drive-time accessibility is moderately challenging, necessitating reliance on longer drives for specialized care.

Public **transportation** options in Ten Mile are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Roane County Area Transit System (RCATS) provides demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. While RCATS may offer door-to-door service, the availability and scheduling can be unpredictable, especially for urgent medical appointments. The system's routes and schedules are subject to change, and riders should contact RCATS directly for current information.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of RCATS is crucial for COPD patients. RCATS vehicles are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations, including wheelchair lifts and ramps. However, the reliance on pre-scheduled rides and the potential for longer wait times can be problematic for those with unpredictable respiratory symptoms. The **COPD Score** reflects a limited public **transportation** infrastructure, which can significantly impact **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Knoxville area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public **transportation**. However, their availability in Ten Mile can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The **COPD Score** acknowledges the potential of ride-sharing, but its reliability and affordability remain concerns.

Medical **transportation** services, such as medical car services and ambulance providers, offer specialized assistance for patients with medical needs. These services can provide non-emergency **transportation** to and from medical appointments, as well as emergency **transportation** in critical situations. Several medical **transportation** companies serve the Knoxville and surrounding areas, including LifeStar Ambulance Service and AMR (American Medical Response). The cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The availability of medical **transportation** services enhances the **healthcare access** options for COPD patients. However, the cost and the need for pre-planning are significant considerations. The **COPD Score** considers the availability of medical **transportation** as a valuable resource, but its impact is tempered by the associated expenses and logistical requirements.

For individuals **moving to Ten Mile** with COPD, careful consideration of **healthcare access** is paramount. The **COPD Score** for ZIP Code 37880 reveals a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While the natural beauty and tranquility of the area are appealing, the limited local healthcare infrastructure and the reliance on longer drives to specialized pulmonary care facilities pose significant hurdles.

The absence of readily available public **transportation** and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate **healthcare access**. The availability of medical **transportation** services offers a lifeline, but the cost and pre-planning requirements must be factored in. The **COPD Score** for Ten Mile, therefore, reflects the need for careful planning, reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged **transportation**, and proactive engagement with healthcare providers to ensure seamless access to necessary medical care.

The **COPD Score** is not solely determined by the physical proximity of healthcare facilities. It also considers the overall quality of life and the availability of support services. For COPD patients, access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, support groups, and home healthcare services can significantly improve their quality of life. The availability of these resources in and around Ten Mile should be investigated.

Individuals considering **moving to Ten Mile** should thoroughly research the availability of these support services and assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** challenges. They should also consult with their pulmonologist to develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses their specific needs. The **COPD Score** serves as a guide, highlighting the critical factors to consider when evaluating the suitability of Ten Mile for individuals managing COPD.

Ultimately, the decision to reside in Ten Mile for a COPD patient requires a personalized assessment. The **COPD Score** is a tool to facilitate this assessment, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning, careful consideration of **transportation** options, and a commitment to maintaining regular communication with healthcare providers. The ability to successfully manage COPD in Ten Mile hinges on a proactive approach to **healthcare access**, ensuring a fulfilling and healthy life in this serene corner of Tennessee.