37705, Andersonville, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37705, Andersonville, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.92 percent of residents in 37705 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.63 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Andersonville (ZIP Code 37705)

Andersonville, Tennessee, nestled amidst the rolling hills and serene beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, when considering a move to this charming community, especially for individuals concerned about lung cancer risk and the crucial need for accessible healthcare, a thorough examination of transportation options is paramount. This analysis, a 'Lung Cancer Score' write-up, delves into the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape within and around ZIP Code 37705, focusing on transportation accessibility to vital medical facilities.

The primary concern for residents, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis or at high risk, is timely access to specialized care. This necessitates a clear understanding of the transportation infrastructure available, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The goal is to evaluate how easily residents can reach oncologists, pulmonologists, diagnostic imaging centers, and radiation therapy facilities.

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation for residents of Andersonville. The primary artery connecting Andersonville to Knoxville, the regional healthcare hub, is Interstate 75 (I-75). Driving south on I-75 provides access to major hospitals such as the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) and Parkwest Medical Center, both offering comprehensive cancer care. The drive to UTMC, a leading cancer treatment center, typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Smaller, more local roads, like Norris Freeway (Highway 61) and Clinton Highway (Highway 61), also provide access to healthcare facilities. While these routes might seem shorter on a map, they often experience congestion, especially during peak hours. The drive to the Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, a facility offering cancer services, via Highway 61, could take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific location within Andersonville.

Public transportation options are limited in Andersonville and the surrounding areas. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system, while providing service within the city of Knoxville, has very limited routes that extend into the rural areas. There is no direct public transportation route from Andersonville to Knoxville, making it challenging for residents without personal vehicles to access healthcare. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints.

For those unable to drive or utilize public transit, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative. However, the availability of these services in Andersonville is variable. While they are generally accessible, wait times can be longer than in urban areas, and the cost of a ride to Knoxville can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or at off-peak hours, must also be considered.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and Priority Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services are essential for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be high, and prior arrangements are typically required.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Andersonville, considering transportation factors, reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to Knoxville offers access to excellent cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative options, but their cost and reliability must be carefully considered.

The decision to move to Andersonville, or any rural area, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should proactively investigate their transportation options and ensure they have a reliable plan for accessing medical care. This includes exploring the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation, and the potential for assistance from family or friends.

For those considering a move to Andersonville, the 'Lung Cancer Score' emphasizes the importance of planning. Researching the specific healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Assessing the availability of specialized cancer care within a reasonable driving distance, and having a backup plan for transportation, is essential. The goal is to ensure that residents can access the care they need, when they need it, regardless of their transportation limitations.

The beauty of Andersonville, the peace and quiet, are undeniable. However, for those facing the challenges of lung cancer or at risk, the practicalities of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully weighed. The 'Lung Cancer Score' serves as a reminder to prioritize healthcare access, making informed decisions about where to live, and ensuring that the tranquility of Andersonville is not overshadowed by the burden of inaccessible healthcare.