37302, Apison, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37302, Apison, Tennessee is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.60 percent of residents in 37302 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 15.13 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Apison, TN (ZIP Code 37302)

This analysis provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Apison, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37302), focusing on the critical element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. This score considers the time, cost, and convenience associated with reaching essential medical services, particularly those related to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The goal is to paint a clear picture for individuals considering moving to Apison or for current residents seeking to understand the practicalities of accessing healthcare.

Apison, a charming community nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of transportation options when assessing healthcare access. For individuals facing a potential or confirmed lung cancer diagnosis, the ability to reach specialists, undergo treatments, and attend follow-up appointments efficiently and reliably is paramount. This analysis will dissect the various transportation pathways available, quantifying their strengths and weaknesses to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities.

**Drive Time and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

The most common mode of transportation in Apison is personal vehicle. The primary roadways providing access to healthcare facilities are crucial. Residents typically rely on **Apison Pike** to connect to the broader transportation network. This road provides a direct route to **East Brainerd Road**, a major thoroughfare with numerous medical offices and clinics.

Driving to the closest major hospital, **Parkridge East Hospital** at 7601 Shallowford Road, usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route involves traveling along East Brainerd Road, a busy commercial corridor. While generally well-maintained, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times.

For more specialized care, such as oncology services, patients might need to travel further. **Erlanger Health System**, with its main campus in downtown Chattanooga, is a leading regional healthcare provider. The drive to Erlanger, using **Interstate 75 (I-75)** and **Interstate 24 (I-24)**, can take approximately 30-45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. This route involves navigating high-speed highways, requiring careful attention to driving conditions and potential delays.

**Other Hospitals and Clinics**

Other hospitals and clinics, like **CHI Memorial Hospital** (725 Glenwood Dr, Chattanooga, TN 37404), require similar travel times. Residents would likely use I-75 to access the hospital. The drive time is usually around 30-40 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Apison and the surrounding areas are limited. The **Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (CARTA)** provides bus services, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for healthcare access from Apison.

The closest CARTA bus route to Apison would be along East Brainerd Road. However, the frequency of these buses is often low, with potential wait times of 30-60 minutes between arrivals. Moreover, the limited route coverage and the need for multiple transfers to reach major hospitals or specialized clinics significantly increase travel time.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key consideration for public transit users. CARTA strives to provide accessible buses with features like ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall limitations of the public transit system in this area pose a challenge for those with mobility issues or those seeking timely healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a viable alternative for transportation. These services are readily available in the Chattanooga area, including Apison. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like **CareRide** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** operate in the area. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Cost Considerations: A Crucial Factor**

The financial burden of transportation is a crucial element of the Lung Cancer Score. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fares, and medical transportation services can quickly accumulate, especially for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. This financial strain can exacerbate the stress of a diagnosis and potentially impact adherence to treatment plans.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Lung Cancer Score for Apison, TN (37302) reflects the interplay of various factors: drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and cost considerations. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the dependence on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present challenges for healthcare access.

The score would likely be moderate, reflecting the balance between the proximity of some medical facilities and the longer travel times required for specialized care. Individuals considering moving to Apison should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the associated transportation demands. Planning for potential delays, considering the financial implications of transportation, and exploring all available options are essential for ensuring access to timely and effective care.

**Recommendations for Apison Residents**

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering traffic patterns and potential delays.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing:** Utilize Uber and Lyft for convenient transportation, but factor in the cost.
* **Investigate Medical Transportation:** Explore specialized services for patients with mobility challenges.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support initiatives to expand and improve CARTA services.
* **Consider Proximity:** When possible, choose healthcare providers closer to Apison to minimize travel time.

This Lung Cancer Score write-up provides a realistic assessment of healthcare access in Apison, TN (37302), emphasizing the crucial role of transportation. It underscores the importance of careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that residents can effectively navigate the healthcare system and receive the care they need. This is especially important for those considering moving to Apison.