37731, Eidson, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37731, Eidson, Tennessee is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

19.70 percent of residents in 37731 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hawkins County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Eidson, TN (ZIP Code 37731)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change in Eidson, Tennessee, a community nestled in the embrace of the Appalachian Mountains. For those contemplating a move to this serene locale, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors for lung cancer, understanding the realities of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of transportation options and their impact on accessing potentially life-saving medical care within and beyond the 37731 ZIP code. This score aims to provide a nuanced perspective, considering the specific challenges and opportunities that exist for residents and prospective newcomers.

The primary concern for residents of Eidson, a rural community, is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Knoxville, a city approximately 60 to 80 miles west, depending on the specific destination. This distance translates to a significant time commitment for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care, making **transportation** a critical element in any healthcare plan.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for residents of 37731. The primary route to Knoxville involves navigating the winding roads of East Tennessee. Residents typically begin their journey on Highway 25E, a two-lane highway that meanders through the valleys and hills. Traffic can be light, offering a scenic drive, but the road’s curves and occasional construction zones can add to travel time.

As Highway 25E approaches Knoxville, it merges with Interstate 75 (I-75), a major north-south artery. I-75 provides a faster, more direct route to the city. However, traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times. The drive from Eidson to Knoxville, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. However, factoring in potential delays due to traffic, weather, or road closures, the journey could extend considerably.

Alternative routes exist, but they often involve traversing smaller, less-maintained roads, which may not be suitable for all vehicles or driving conditions. For instance, residents could utilize Highway 11W, which parallels I-75, but this route often experiences higher traffic volume and may not offer a significant time advantage.

Public **transportation** options in Eidson are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. There are no local bus routes that directly serve Eidson or provide regular service to Knoxville. This lack of public **transportation** disproportionately affects individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those with limited financial resources.

The closest public transit options are available in Knoxville, including the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system. KAT offers a network of bus routes throughout the city, but these routes do not extend to Eidson. While KAT does provide some ADA-accessible buses, the practicality of utilizing this system for residents of 37731 is severely limited due to the distance and lack of direct routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Knoxville and may be an option for residents of Eidson. However, the availability of these services in rural areas can be inconsistent, and the cost of a ride from Eidson to Knoxville can be substantial. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled appointments or treatments cannot always be guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be a viable option for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, particularly for long-distance travel.

The financial burden associated with **transportation** to healthcare facilities is a critical consideration for residents of Eidson. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees can add up quickly, especially for frequent appointments. For those relying on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services, the expense can be a significant barrier to accessing care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Eidson, TN, is therefore influenced by several factors. The primary challenge is the distance to specialized medical facilities in Knoxville. While driving is the most common mode of **transportation**, the travel time can be significant, and traffic congestion can add to the inconvenience. The lack of public **transportation** options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services further complicate **healthcare access**.

The absence of local support groups or community resources specifically focused on lung cancer further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals affected by the disease. Support groups and patient advocacy organizations can provide invaluable emotional support, practical advice, and information about available resources.

For those **moving to Eidson**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and financial resources is essential. Individuals with a history of smoking or other risk factors for lung cancer should proactively establish a healthcare plan that includes regular screenings and access to specialized medical care. This plan should consider the potential for long travel times, the cost of **transportation**, and the availability of support services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Eidson, TN, reflects the realities of rural healthcare access. While the natural beauty and tranquility of the area may be appealing, prospective residents must carefully consider the **transportation** challenges and the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and comprehensive medical care. This includes researching available medical **transportation** options, understanding the potential costs, and exploring the possibility of establishing a support network in Knoxville.