37385, Tellico Plains, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37385, Tellico Plains, Tennessee is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.18 percent of residents in 37385 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 18.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tellico Plains, TN (ZIP Code 37385)

The allure of Tellico Plains, Tennessee, nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the Cherokee National Forest, beckons with promises of tranquility and natural beauty. Yet, for those considering a move, particularly individuals with or at risk of lung cancer, understanding the intricacies of **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the **transportation** landscape surrounding ZIP code 37385, offering a critical perspective on the challenges and opportunities for accessing vital medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation, considering factors crucial for lung cancer patients: proximity to specialized oncology services, availability of various **transportation** options, and the overall ease of navigating the healthcare system. This write-up aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare access in Tellico Plains, empowering informed decisions for those considering a move or currently residing in the area.

**Drive Times: A Road Map to Care**

The primary artery connecting Tellico Plains to broader healthcare networks is State Route 68, a winding yet scenic route. Driving to the closest major medical facilities necessitates careful planning. The drive to Sweetwater Hospital Association, a local option, is typically under an hour, providing essential services. However, specialized oncology care often requires travel to larger hospitals in Knoxville or Chattanooga.

Venturing towards Knoxville, the journey unfolds along State Route 68, merging onto US-129 North, then transitioning to I-75 North. This route, spanning approximately 80-100 miles, can consume 2-2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The University of Tennessee Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment center, becomes the destination, offering comprehensive oncology services.

Alternatively, heading south to Chattanooga involves navigating State Route 68, merging onto US-64 East, and finally connecting to I-75 South. This route, roughly 90-110 miles, also demands 2-2.5 hours of travel. Erlanger Health System, a major regional healthcare provider, offers significant oncology resources. These drive times, while manageable, underscore the importance of reliable personal vehicles and the potential for fatigue during treatment.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Hurdles**

Public **transportation** options in Tellico Plains and the surrounding areas are severely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system serving Tellico Plains. This lack of accessible public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or undergoing treatment that may impair driving ability.

The nearest public **transportation** options are in neighboring counties, such as McMinn County, which offers limited bus routes. However, these routes are infrequent, may not directly serve medical facilities, and are unlikely to possess the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features necessary for individuals with mobility issues.

The absence of robust public **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access**, potentially isolating patients and hindering their ability to attend appointments, access medications, and receive timely treatment. This scarcity of options emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport for **transportation** to healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tellico Plains area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing for long distances to Knoxville or Chattanooga can also be substantial, adding to the financial burden of cancer treatment.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is typically required.

The utilization of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services underscores the challenges faced by individuals seeking **healthcare access** in Tellico Plains. The reliance on these services adds to the complexity of managing cancer treatment, requiring careful planning, budgeting, and coordination.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The Lung Cancer Score for Tellico Plains reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers the serenity of a rural setting, the limited **transportation** options create significant hurdles for accessing specialized oncology care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for long drive times, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services necessitate careful consideration for individuals with or at risk of lung cancer.

The absence of robust public **transportation** exacerbates these challenges, potentially isolating patients and hindering their ability to adhere to treatment plans. The financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** further complicate the situation, adding to the already significant burdens of cancer treatment.

**Moving to Tellico Plains: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering **moving to Tellico Plains**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is crucial. Those with existing lung cancer diagnoses or a high risk of developing the disease should carefully evaluate the implications of limited **healthcare access**.

This Lung Cancer Score analysis highlights the importance of:

* **Personal Vehicle:** Owning and maintaining a reliable vehicle is paramount for accessing healthcare.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Adequate insurance coverage is essential to offset the costs of medical **transportation** and treatment.
* **Support Network:** Establishing a strong support network of family, friends, or community resources is crucial for assistance with **transportation** and care.
* **Proactive Planning:** Planning appointments, medication refills, and **transportation** well in advance is essential.
* **Community Resources:** Investigating local resources, such as volunteer driver programs or patient advocacy groups, can provide valuable support.

The decision to relocate to Tellico Plains is a personal one, and this analysis aims to provide a realistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access**. By understanding the **transportation** landscape and the availability of medical services, individuals can make informed decisions that prioritize their health and well-being. While the beauty of Tellico Plains is undeniable, the complexities of accessing specialized oncology care warrant careful consideration, emphasizing the need for comprehensive planning and a proactive approach to healthcare management.