37726, Deer Lodge, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37726, Deer Lodge, Tennessee is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.04 percent of residents in 37726 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cumberland Medical Center with a distance of 20.14 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deer Lodge, TN (ZIP Code 37726)

The crisp mountain air of Deer Lodge, Tennessee, offers a serene backdrop for life. However, for residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to healthcare becomes a crucial consideration. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 37726, focusing on factors influencing healthcare access, particularly for those requiring specialized lung cancer treatment. We'll assess the "Lung Cancer Score" – a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical resources. This is essential information for anyone considering moving to Deer Lodge or already residing there, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The primary determinant of the Lung Cancer Score is transportation. The ability to quickly and reliably access medical facilities directly impacts the success of treatment. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly worsen outcomes. Therefore, the accessibility of hospitals and clinics equipped to handle lung cancer cases is paramount. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions available to residents of Deer Lodge.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary thoroughfare serving Deer Lodge is US-27. This highway provides the most direct route to larger medical centers located in surrounding cities. Driving times are a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. For residents of Deer Lodge, the nearest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care is likely the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. The drive along US-27 South, followed by I-40 East, covers approximately 80 miles. Under ideal traffic conditions, this journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend this travel time.

Another option is the Cumberland Medical Center in Crossville, roughly 35 miles west via US-70. This drive takes approximately 45 minutes in normal conditions. While Cumberland Medical Center offers some cancer services, it may not have the same level of specialized lung cancer expertise as the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Therefore, the choice of facility will influence the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Local roads, like Deer Lodge Highway, provide access to smaller clinics and primary care physicians within the immediate vicinity. However, these facilities typically do not offer advanced cancer treatment. The quality of these local roads and the potential for delays due to weather conditions also factor into the score. Winter weather, common in this mountainous region, can make travel treacherous and significantly increase drive times, especially on less-traveled roads.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Deer Lodge and the surrounding areas are limited. This significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The absence of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or who are unable to afford private transportation options.

There is no dedicated public bus service that directly connects Deer Lodge to Knoxville or Crossville. The availability of ride-sharing services in this rural area may also be limited, especially during off-peak hours. This lack of readily available public transportation options necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation arrangements.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on any public transit are non-existent in this area. This further exacerbates the transportation challenges for individuals with disabilities who may require specialized assistance.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Deer Lodge are questionable. The wait times and costs associated with ride-sharing can be substantial, particularly for longer trips to Knoxville. The Lung Cancer Score is negatively affected by this uncertainty.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including AMR (American Medical Response) and Priority Ambulance. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be subject to scheduling constraints and insurance coverage. The cost of these services, along with the potential for insurance limitations, impacts the overall affordability of healthcare access, which is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for Deer Lodge, TN (37726) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The score is lower due to the limited public transportation, potentially unreliable ride-sharing, and the need for long drives to access specialized cancer care. The score is somewhat elevated by the presence of local clinics and the potential for medical transport services.

The score considers the drive times to major cancer centers, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing, and the accessibility of medical transport. The score also considers the potential for weather-related delays and the overall cost of transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Deer Lodge or already residing there, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation support becomes especially important. Planning for transportation needs, including potential medical transport, is a vital step in ensuring timely access to healthcare.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The Lung Cancer Score for Deer Lodge highlights the importance of proactive planning when it comes to healthcare access. While the natural beauty and tranquility of Deer Lodge are appealing, the transportation limitations necessitate careful consideration, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking specialized cancer treatment.

The score emphasizes the need for residents to have a clear understanding of their transportation options, including drive times, potential costs, and the availability of support networks. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they can access the necessary medical services when needed. The commitment to healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone making Deer Lodge their home.