37663, Kingsport, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37663, Kingsport, Tennessee is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.69 percent of residents in 37663 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Indian Path Community Hospital with a distance of 5.68 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kingsport, TN (ZIP Code 37663)

Considering a move to Kingsport, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37663)? This analysis explores healthcare access, particularly concerning lung cancer care, focusing on transportation options. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals and families prioritizing healthcare access. This report provides a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the availability and accessibility of services, considering commute times, transportation infrastructure, and available resources.

Kingsport, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique transportation challenges. While offering a relatively affordable cost of living, the mountainous terrain and limited public transportation can impact healthcare access. This report aims to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape for individuals needing lung cancer treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering various factors. These include the proximity to specialized lung cancer care centers, the ease of reaching these centers via different modes of transportation, and the availability of support services. The score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in accessing lung cancer care within the specified ZIP code.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The primary roadway serving Kingsport is Interstate 26 (I-26), which connects the city to Johnson City and Bristol, where significant healthcare facilities are located. The drive to Johnson City, home to the Johnson City Medical Center, a regional referral center, typically takes 20-30 minutes via I-26. Traffic conditions can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours.

Accessing Bristol, approximately a 20-25 minute drive on I-26, provides additional healthcare options, including the Bristol Regional Medical Center. These facilities are critical for specialized care, including pulmonology and oncology services vital for lung cancer treatment.

Local roads, such as East Stone Drive and Memorial Boulevard, provide access to local clinics and physician offices. However, these roads can experience congestion during rush hour, increasing commute times. The condition of these roads varies, and some may be challenging to navigate for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Kingsport is limited. The Kingsport Area Transit System (KATS) offers bus routes within the city. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily serve local areas, making them less practical for reaching regional healthcare facilities.

KATS routes typically do not directly connect to major hospitals in Johnson City or Bristol. Individuals relying on public transit for lung cancer treatment would likely need to utilize multiple bus transfers, significantly increasing travel time and complexity.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. KATS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, and the system strives to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route network and long travel times may still pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Kingsport. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments or treatments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility limitations.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Kingsport area. These include companies like First Transit and CareRide. They often offer door-to-door service, minimizing the challenges associated with navigating public transit or driving.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialists**

The availability of specialized lung cancer care within Kingsport is limited. Residents often rely on facilities in Johnson City and Bristol for comprehensive treatment. These facilities offer a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.

The proximity to these regional healthcare centers is a significant advantage for Kingsport residents. However, the transportation challenges discussed above can impact access to these critical services.

**Lung Cancer Score Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 37663 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to regional healthcare facilities is positive, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges.

**Strengths:**

* **Proximity to Regional Centers:** Johnson City and Bristol offer comprehensive lung cancer care.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Uber and Lyft provide alternative transportation options.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** Specialized services cater to patients with mobility limitations.

**Weaknesses:**

* **Limited Public Transit:** KATS is not a viable option for reaching regional healthcare facilities.
* **Driving Challenges:** Mountainous terrain and potential traffic congestion can increase commute times.
* **Cost of Transportation:** Ride-sharing and medical transportation can be expensive.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in Kingsport requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit, potentially through expanded routes and increased frequency, could significantly benefit patients. Collaborations between healthcare providers and transportation services could provide subsidized transportation options.

Telemedicine can play a role, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Expanding local healthcare services, including specialist clinics, would reduce the need for long-distance travel.

**Moving to Kingsport: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering a move to Kingsport with a history of lung cancer, careful planning is crucial. Assess the availability of transportation options and factor in potential costs. Research the specific healthcare services available in the area and ensure they meet your needs.

Discuss your healthcare needs with your physician and explore the possibility of establishing care with a specialist in the region. Consider the potential impact of transportation challenges on your quality of life and ability to access treatment.

**Conclusion**

Navigating healthcare access in Kingsport (ZIP Code 37663) requires careful consideration of transportation options. While the proximity to regional healthcare facilities is advantageous, the limited public transit and potential transportation costs pose challenges. By understanding these factors and exploring available resources, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the necessary lung cancer care. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support the well-being of residents in Kingsport. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Kingsport and prioritizing healthcare access.