37931, Knoxville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 37931, Knoxville, Tennessee is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.98 percent of residents in 37931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkwest Medical Center with a distance of 3.91 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 37931

Moving to Knoxville, Tennessee, and specifically ZIP code 37931, presents a unique set of considerations, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the nuances of transportation and healthcare access within this area, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment, a practical guide for navigating the complexities of medical appointments and maintaining optimal health. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape relevant to healthcare needs.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical value but a conceptual framework. It reflects the ease with which an individual with hypertension can access necessary healthcare services within 37931, considering the challenges and advantages of the local transportation infrastructure. The score is inherently personal, varying based on individual mobility, financial resources, and specific healthcare requirements.

The primary arteries of transportation in 37931 are Interstate 75 (I-75), and the major thoroughfares of Northshore Drive, and Middlebrook Pike. These roads dictate the speed and efficiency of accessing healthcare facilities. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. For instance, a commute from the western edge of 37931, near the intersection of Northshore Drive and Pellissippi Parkway, to the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) on Alcoa Highway could take upwards of 30 minutes during rush hour. Conversely, a trip from the eastern portion of the zip code, closer to I-75, to a clinic in the Bearden area might be significantly shorter, perhaps 15-20 minutes.

Public transportation, offered by the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT), provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several KAT routes serve 37931, including the 11, 12, and 22. These routes offer varying levels of accessibility. The 11 route, for example, runs along Northshore Drive, providing access to numerous businesses and residential areas. The 12 route, which traverses Middlebrook Pike, provides access to many medical facilities and shopping centers. The 22 route offers a connection to the UT campus and downtown Knoxville.

KAT strives to offer accessible transportation, with all buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service can be a limiting factor, particularly during evenings and weekends. Waiting times can extend to 30-60 minutes, impacting the convenience of accessing healthcare. Planning appointments around the KAT schedule is essential for individuals reliant on public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially eliminating the need to rely on fixed bus schedules or personal vehicles. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments. During peak hours, surge pricing can further inflate costs, adding an additional financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, are also available in 37931. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like First Medical Transport and AMR offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they provide a crucial service for individuals who cannot utilize other transportation methods.

Healthcare access within 37931 is largely concentrated along major roadways. UTMC on Alcoa Highway provides comprehensive medical services, including specialized cardiology care. Several clinics and medical offices are located along Northshore Drive and Middlebrook Pike, offering primary care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic services. The concentration of healthcare facilities facilitates access, but the reliance on vehicular transportation and the potential for traffic congestion remain significant factors.

The "Hypertension Score" for 37931, therefore, is nuanced. It benefits from the presence of multiple healthcare facilities and the availability of various transportation options. However, the score is tempered by the potential for traffic delays, the limitations of public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing services. The score for an individual will vary based on their specific circumstances.

For someone with a personal vehicle and the ability to drive during off-peak hours, the score would be relatively high. The ability to control the timing and routing of travel significantly improves healthcare access. For an individual relying on public transit, the score would be lower. The constraints of the KAT schedule, coupled with potential waiting times, could create challenges. For someone reliant on medical transportation, the score would depend on the availability, cost, and reliability of those services.

Moving to Knoxville, particularly to 37931, requires careful consideration of these factors. Individuals managing hypertension must proactively assess their transportation needs and develop a plan to ensure consistent and timely access to healthcare. This might involve exploring various transportation options, planning appointments strategically, and budgeting for transportation costs.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in personal circumstances, transportation infrastructure, and healthcare access. Regular evaluation and adaptation are essential to maintaining optimal health and well-being within the context of the local transportation landscape. Understanding the interplay between transportation and healthcare access is crucial for successfully navigating the complexities of living with hypertension in 37931.