The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37922, Knoxville, Tennessee is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
76.18 percent of residents in 37922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkwest Medical Center with a distance of 3.03 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 37922, Knoxville, Tennessee
Hypertension Score | 89 |
---|---|
People Score | 56 |
Provider Score | 82 |
Hospital Score | 44 |
Travel Score | 77 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 37922 | Knoxville | Tennessee |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.43 | 1.43 | 1.84 |
1 Car | 10.21 | 18.59 | 17.99 |
2 Cars | 45.50 | 45.06 | 40.14 |
3 or More Cars | 43.86 | 34.93 | 40.03 |
Vehicular Access in 37922, Knoxville, Tennessee
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 37922
Considering a move to Knoxville, Tennessee, and specifically the 37922 ZIP code? This area, encompassing a significant portion of West Knoxville, presents a unique blend of suburban tranquility and access to vital services. Understanding the nuances of transportation and healthcare access is crucial, particularly if you or a loved one manages hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, dives into the realities of commuting to healthcare within 37922, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options.
The 37922 ZIP code is predominantly residential, characterized by sprawling neighborhoods and commercial corridors. This geographic layout significantly influences how residents access healthcare. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **Interstate 140 (I-140)**, also known as the Pellissippi Parkway, and **Kingston Pike**. These roadways are the lifelines for navigating the area, providing connections to major hospitals and medical facilities.
Drive times are a critical factor in managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency situations demand swift and reliable transportation. While the 37922 area itself boasts several urgent care facilities and smaller clinics, access to specialized care often necessitates travel to larger hospitals, primarily located further east along Kingston Pike or south via I-140.
During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and afternoons, congestion on Kingston Pike can be substantial. Expect delays, especially near major intersections. I-140 generally offers smoother traffic flow, but accidents or construction can quickly disrupt commutes. For example, a routine appointment at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, located east of 37922, could take 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours, but easily stretches to 45 minutes or more during rush hour. Similarly, accessing Parkwest Medical Center, situated south of the area, would require a similar time commitment.
Public transportation, while available, presents a different set of challenges. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system serves the 37922 area, but route frequency and coverage can be limited. Several KAT bus routes operate within or near the ZIP code, including **Routes 11, 22, and 31**. These routes generally run along major roads like Kingston Pike and Northshore Drive.
However, the system's efficiency for healthcare access is questionable. Bus schedules might not align with appointment times, and transfers could add significant travel time. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. KAT buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time on public transit can be a major hurdle. A bus ride to UT Medical Center from a central 37922 location could easily consume an hour or more, making it a less-than-ideal option for urgent needs.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for transfers and potentially reducing travel time compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further inflate costs.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another option. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and Priority Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from appointments but do not need an ambulance. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, booking these services requires advance planning, and costs can vary.
The “Hypertension Score” for 37922, therefore, is multifaceted. While the area provides a comfortable suburban lifestyle, healthcare access is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. Drive times to major hospitals can be substantial, particularly during peak traffic. Public transit offers a less-than-ideal solution due to limited frequency and potential travel time. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide viable alternatives, but their cost and availability must be considered.
For individuals managing hypertension, the best approach is to carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Consider the proximity of healthcare providers, the frequency of appointments, and the potential for emergencies. Factor in the cost of transportation and the time commitment involved.
Moving to Knoxville, particularly to 37922, requires a strategic approach to healthcare access. Proximity to a primary care physician, a reliable pharmacy, and readily available transportation options are crucial. While the area offers a good quality of life, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning and consideration for individuals with hypertension. The “Hypertension Score” for 37922 is moderate, with the caveat that proactive planning and access to alternative transportation options are essential for optimal healthcare management.
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