37337, Grandview, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37337, Grandview, Tennessee is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.79 percent of residents in 37337 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cumberland Medical Center with a distance of 14.66 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Grandview, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37337)

The crisp air of Grandview, Tennessee, a town nestled in the Sequatchie Valley, might seem idyllic. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the reality of accessing specialized healthcare becomes a paramount concern. This report, the "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates the accessibility of lung cancer treatment centers from ZIP code 37337, focusing on the critical element of **transportation**. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** for residents. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Grandview** or already living there, particularly those with or at risk of developing lung cancer.

The geographical layout of Grandview presents a unique challenge. The town is situated between the Cumberland Plateau and the Sequatchie Valley, influencing **transportation** options. The primary artery for vehicular travel is US-127, a two-lane highway that can become congested, especially during peak hours. This road connects Grandview to the larger cities where specialized medical care is located. Accessing major medical centers requires navigating this route, making travel time a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

For those with lung cancer, timely access to treatment is crucial. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact survival rates. Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" prioritizes the speed and reliability of **transportation** to the nearest facilities offering comprehensive lung cancer care. These facilities include hospitals and cancer centers equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical expertise.

The closest major medical center offering comprehensive lung cancer care is in Chattanooga, approximately 50 miles away. Driving to Chattanooga via US-127 and I-24 typically takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive time, while manageable, can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment, requiring frequent appointments. The drive includes stretches of winding roads, especially on US-127, which can exacerbate fatigue and nausea often associated with cancer treatment.

Another option is to travel north to Crossville, Tennessee, where some specialized care may be available. This route, primarily via US-127, is shorter in distance, but the quality of care may not be as comprehensive as in Chattanooga. Drive times to Crossville are approximately 45 minutes to an hour, offering a potentially quicker option for some, but patients should consider the level of specialized care available.

Public **transportation** options in Grandview and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary form of public transit is the Grundy County Transit Authority, which provides demand-response services. However, these services are not specifically designed for medical **transportation** and require advance booking, making them less ideal for urgent needs. Furthermore, the availability of these services is restricted, and they may not extend to Chattanooga or other major medical centers. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

The absence of dedicated public transit routes to Chattanooga highlights a critical need. The absence of a dedicated bus route, or even a shuttle service specifically designed for medical **transportation**, significantly diminishes the Lung Cancer Score. Such a service would be particularly beneficial for elderly patients, those with mobility limitations, or individuals who cannot drive due to their condition or treatment side effects. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility and trained drivers, are essential for any public transit option to be viable for lung cancer patients.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Grandview, but their reliability and cost can vary. While they offer a degree of flexibility, the cost of a ride to Chattanooga can be substantial, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in the Grandview area may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the **transportation** challenge.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized option, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. Companies like Logisticare and Modivcare operate in the region, offering scheduled rides for eligible individuals. These services often require prior authorization and may have limitations on the distance and frequency of trips. While these services are valuable, they are not always readily available, and the application process can be cumbersome. The availability of these services is a factor that contributes to the Lung Cancer Score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services within Grandview. The presence of local pharmacies, support groups, and palliative care services can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients. These services can reduce the need for frequent travel to distant locations and provide crucial emotional and practical support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Grandview, Tennessee, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to Chattanooga, the primary hub for specialized lung cancer care, is manageable, the lack of robust public **transportation** options and the potential limitations of ride-share and medical **transportation** services create significant challenges. These challenges are particularly acute for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations.

The score is further impacted by the limited availability of local support services, such as specialized cancer support groups or palliative care. These services can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and reduce the burden of travel. The absence of these resources adds to the challenges faced by individuals with lung cancer in Grandview.

Improving the "Lung Cancer Score" requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public **transportation** options, particularly the establishment of a dedicated medical shuttle service to Chattanooga, is paramount. This could involve partnerships between local government, healthcare providers, and non-profit organizations.

Increasing the availability of ride-share services, potentially through subsidies or partnerships, could also improve **transportation** access. Expanding the availability of medical **transportation** services and streamlining the application process would be beneficial. Finally, fostering the development of local support services, such as cancer support groups and palliative care, would significantly enhance the quality of life for lung cancer patients in Grandview.

For anyone considering **moving to Grandview** or already residing there, this "Lung Cancer Score" write-up provides a critical assessment of **healthcare access** related to lung cancer. Understanding the **transportation** challenges and the available resources is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being. The score highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** and support the needs of individuals facing this challenging diagnosis in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, part of Tennessee.