37324, Decherd, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37324, Decherd, Tennessee is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.57 percent of residents in 37324 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Medical Center with a distance of 18.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Decherd, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37324)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and efficient access to healthcare. For residents of Decherd, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37324), the reality of **transportation** options directly impacts their ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatments, and ongoing care. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community, considering the available avenues for **healthcare access**, emphasizing the practicalities of **moving to Decherd** with this critical health concern.

Decherd itself is a small town, nestled in Franklin County, offering a serene atmosphere. However, its rural setting presents challenges when it comes to specialized medical care, particularly for a disease like lung cancer. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel, which can be a significant hurdle for patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the ease or difficulty of this journey.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Decherd residents is personal vehicles. The town is conveniently situated near Interstate 24 (I-24), a major east-west artery. This highway provides relatively quick access to larger cities like Chattanooga (approximately 70 miles east) and Nashville (roughly 80 miles west). The drive to Chattanooga, home to several hospitals and cancer treatment facilities, typically takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

The drive to Nashville, with its concentration of world-renowned medical institutions, can range from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, again influenced by traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The route to Nashville primarily involves I-24, with potential segments on US-41A and TN-12. These are important highways and roads to remember when **moving to Decherd**.

For those without personal vehicles, or for patients unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects, **public transit** options are extremely limited. Franklin County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transportation infrastructure. There is no established bus system within Decherd or Franklin County that connects to major medical centers. This severely limits **healthcare access** for those who depend on public transport.

The closest semblance of **public transit** would involve a combination of services. This may involve a ride-sharing service, a private medical transport service, or relying on family and friends for transportation. The absence of a readily available, affordable, and reliable **public transit** system significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score." The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing, albeit limited, **public transit** options further exacerbates this challenge.

**Ride-share** services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Decherd, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver proximity, which can be a concern in a rural area. The cost of a ride-share to Chattanooga or Nashville can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for patients already facing significant medical expenses.

**Medical transport** services offer a more specialized solution, particularly for patients requiring assistance. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, potentially delaying access to urgent care.

Some of the medical transport brands serving the area include, but are not limited to, First Choice Medical Transport and American Medical Response. These services are essential for ensuring **healthcare access** for patients with mobility limitations. However, the cost and availability of these services are critical factors in determining the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of local healthcare facilities. While Decherd itself may have primary care physicians and some limited outpatient services, specialized cancer care, including oncologists, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology, is not available within the town. This necessitates travel to larger cities for comprehensive treatment.

The distance to these specialized facilities and the availability of **transportation** options are crucial factors in determining the score. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly impact patient outcomes. The lack of local specialized care significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score."

When **moving to Decherd** with a lung cancer diagnosis, it is imperative to thoroughly assess the **transportation** landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited **public transit**, and the potential costs associated with **ride-share** and **medical transport** services must be carefully considered. Planning for regular trips to treatment centers, scheduling appointments in advance, and exploring all available financial assistance programs are essential.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Decherd, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37324) is, therefore, moderate. While I-24 offers relatively quick access to major medical centers, the lack of robust **public transit**, the potential costs of **ride-share** and **medical transport**, and the absence of local specialized care create significant challenges for patients.

For individuals considering **moving to Decherd** with a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough understanding of these **transportation** limitations and a proactive approach to **healthcare access** are essential. Careful planning, resourcefulness, and a strong support system are critical for navigating the complexities of treatment and ensuring the best possible outcomes. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of assessing these factors and making informed decisions about healthcare needs. The journey to recovery is often long and arduous, and the ability to travel to receive treatment is a vital part of that journey.