37917, Knoxville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37917, Knoxville, Tennessee is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.71 percent of residents in 37917 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.77 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Knoxville's 37917

Moving to Knoxville, Tennessee, and specifically ZIP code 37917, requires careful consideration of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on timely medical care. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation modalities, offering insights into the ease of navigating the healthcare system while living in this area.

The 37917 ZIP code, encompassing a diverse area of Knoxville, presents a unique transportation challenge. While some areas boast relative proximity to medical facilities, others necessitate longer commutes, potentially exacerbating the challenges of managing hypertension. Our analysis aims to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape, crucial for those prioritizing convenient healthcare access.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

For many residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. Major arteries like **Interstate 40 (I-40)** and **Interstate 75 (I-75)** are crucial for accessing hospitals and specialized clinics. However, these interstates are prone to congestion, especially near the city center.

Driving from the heart of 37917 to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. The route often involves navigating **Kingston Pike**, a busy commercial corridor. Other facilities, like Parkwest Medical Center, might be reached via **Northshore Drive** and **Pellissippi Parkway**, with drive times ranging from 20-35 minutes.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are scattered throughout the area. Accessing these often involves navigating local roads like **Middlebrook Pike**, **Western Avenue**, and **Broadway**. These routes can be less congested than the interstates, but they may still present challenges during rush hour. The efficiency of driving, therefore, hinges on understanding local traffic patterns and planning accordingly.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system offers public transportation within 37917, but its coverage is limited, especially for those residing in the more suburban sections. Bus routes are available, but frequency and route coverage may not always align with the needs of individuals requiring regular medical appointments.

Several KAT routes serve the 37917 area. Route 11, for example, travels along **Kingston Pike**, providing access to some medical facilities. Route 22 serves **Western Avenue**, connecting to other key destinations. Route 41, running along **Broadway**, offers access to downtown Knoxville and potentially to healthcare providers located there.

However, the KAT system's limitations must be acknowledged. Service frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be sparse. The system also faces challenges regarding ADA accessibility, which is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. While KAT strives to provide accessible services, the availability of fully accessible buses and the ease of navigating transfer points should be carefully considered.

For individuals reliant on public transit, meticulous planning is essential. Consulting the KAT website or app for route schedules and real-time updates is highly recommended. Factor in potential delays and the time required for transfers when scheduling medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Alternative Solutions:**

Ride-share services, like Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility and convenience. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transportation companies operate in Knoxville, including First Transit and MedRide.

The availability of these services and their associated costs should be carefully investigated. Insurance coverage for medical transportation may vary, so it is crucial to understand the specifics of your insurance plan. Booking in advance is often recommended, particularly for specialized services or appointments during peak hours.

**Hypertension Score Considerations:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 37917 must consider these factors:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Location within the ZIP code significantly impacts drive times. Residents closer to major hospitals or clinics benefit from shorter commutes.
* **Driving Ability and Vehicle Ownership:** Reliance on personal vehicles necessitates assessing driving skills and vehicle reliability.
* **Public Transit Dependence:** The limitations of the KAT system must be weighed against the need for regular medical appointments.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Availability:** The cost and accessibility of these services play a crucial role in the overall score.
* **Individual Health Needs:** The frequency of medical appointments and the need for specialized care influence the importance of convenient transportation.

**Recommendations for Managing Hypertension:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Knoxville, or already residing in 37917, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize Location:** When choosing a residence, prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and access to major transportation routes.
* **Plan Transportation:** Develop a comprehensive transportation plan, considering all available options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Explore Healthcare Options:** Research the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within the area. Consider the accessibility of their offices and the ease of scheduling appointments.
* **Utilize Technology:** Leverage online resources, such as the KAT website or ride-share apps, to plan routes and monitor transportation options.
* **Build a Support Network:** Consider establishing a support network of friends, family, or community resources to assist with transportation needs.

Managing hypertension requires consistent access to medical care. Understanding the transportation landscape in 37917 is paramount to ensuring timely appointments and maintaining optimal health. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being while moving to Knoxville.