37733, Rugby, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37733, Rugby, Tennessee is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 37733 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Big South Fork Medical Center with a distance of 16.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rugby, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37733)

The crisp air of Rugby, Tennessee, a historic Victorian village nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, often belies the complexities of modern life. For residents and those considering moving to this charming locale, understanding **healthcare access**, particularly concerning a serious illness like lung cancer, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for ZIP Code 37733, focusing on **transportation** options to facilitate timely and effective medical care. This score considers factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade but a narrative assessment, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It recognizes that factors beyond distance, such as personal mobility, financial resources, and the specific needs of a lung cancer patient, significantly influence the experience. This analysis aims to provide a realistic perspective, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and well-being in Rugby.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary challenge in ZIP Code 37733 is the relative remoteness. The nearest major medical centers equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment are located in Knoxville, approximately 70 miles east, and Nashville, roughly 130 miles west. The primary route to Knoxville involves traveling east on **Highway 62**, a winding two-lane road that can become congested, especially during peak hours. Further travel on **Interstate 75** is required to access major hospitals.

Reaching Nashville necessitates navigating **Highway 62** west to **Highway 127**, then south towards **Interstate 40**. This route offers a more direct path but involves a longer overall drive. The drive times to these major medical centers can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's speed. Under ideal conditions, the drive to Knoxville might take around 1.5 to 2 hours, while the journey to Nashville could stretch to 2.5 to 3 hours.

These drive times are crucial considerations for individuals undergoing treatment for lung cancer. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up consultations necessitate reliable and timely **transportation**. The potential for fatigue, nausea, and other side effects associated with treatment further underscores the importance of minimizing travel time and maximizing comfort.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in ZIP Code 37733 are extremely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transportation system, making it difficult for residents to rely on buses or trains for **healthcare access**. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to age, illness, or disability.

There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Rugby or connect it to major medical centers. The absence of public transit poses a considerable obstacle for patients who require frequent medical appointments, especially those undergoing intensive treatment regimens. Furthermore, the lack of **ADA** (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features in any existing public transit further complicates matters for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can be unpredictable, particularly in rural areas like Rugby. Ride-sharing apps might be available, but the response times and the availability of drivers can vary significantly. This is particularly problematic for patients who need to schedule appointments in advance or require immediate **transportation** in case of an emergency.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the broader region, but their availability and the specific services they offer (e.g., wheelchair accessibility, stretcher service) should be carefully investigated.

The cost of medical **transportation** can be a significant factor, especially for patients with limited financial resources. It is essential to explore insurance coverage for these services and to inquire about any available financial assistance programs.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands are available in the region, offering varying levels of service. These include, but are not limited to, companies such as:

* **First Transit:** Offers non-emergency medical **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **LogistiCare:** A major NEMT provider that contracts with managed care organizations.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Provides ambulance and medical **transportation** services, including inter-facility transfers.

The specific availability of these services in ZIP Code 37733 and their associated costs and insurance coverage should be confirmed.

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

For individuals considering **moving to Rugby**, or any location, with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, the **transportation** challenges described above must be carefully considered. The distance to specialized medical centers and the limited public transit options necessitate a strong reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical **transportation** services.

Before making a move, it is essential to:

* Research the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services in the area.
* Assess the financial implications of relying on these services.
* Identify local support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can provide assistance with **transportation** and other needs.
* Consult with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses **healthcare access** challenges.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 37733 highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape. While the area's remoteness presents **transportation** challenges, it is crucial to recognize that solutions exist. By understanding the available options, exploring financial assistance programs, and building a strong support network, individuals can mitigate the challenges and ensure timely access to the medical care they need. The decision to move to Rugby, or any rural area, requires careful consideration of these factors, ensuring that the pursuit of a peaceful life doesn't compromise access to critical **healthcare access**.