37737, Friendsville, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37737, Friendsville, Tennessee is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.70 percent of residents in 37737 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fort Loudoun Medical Center with a distance of 9.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Friendsville, TN (ZIP Code 37737)

Considering a move to the charming community of Friendsville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37737)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and friendly atmosphere, prospective residents must also consider essential factors like healthcare access, particularly if they have, or are at risk for, lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this complex disease. Our analysis will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services. This is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access, especially when facing the challenges of lung cancer treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade but a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape impacting access to lung cancer specialists and treatment centers. It considers factors like distance, travel time, and the reliability of various transportation methods. This is paramount, given the often-critical need for timely appointments, frequent treatments, and potential emergency situations.

Friendsville, nestled in Blount County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This duality shapes the transportation options available. The most common mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The primary arteries for navigating the area are US-129 (also known as Alcoa Highway) and TN-33 (also known as Louisville Road).

For those in Friendsville, the drive to the nearest major healthcare facilities requires careful planning. The University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, a comprehensive cancer center, is a primary destination. The journey typically involves heading north on US-129. The drive time, under normal traffic conditions, can range from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on the specific location within Friendsville and traffic flow. Rush hour, especially during weekday commutes, can significantly extend travel times.

Another option, closer to Friendsville, is Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville. The drive to Blount Memorial, primarily via TN-33 and US-129, is generally shorter, averaging 15 to 25 minutes. While Blount Memorial offers oncology services, the University of Tennessee Medical Center often provides more specialized lung cancer care, including advanced treatments and clinical trials.

Public transportation options in Friendsville are limited. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system, while serving the greater Knoxville area, has limited routes that directly access Friendsville. While there are no KAT routes that directly serve Friendsville, it is possible to utilize a ride-share service to connect with a KAT route. However, this increases the overall travel time and cost. The accessibility of KAT buses for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) is a crucial consideration. All KAT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating for individuals with mobility impairments, making them accessible to those who may have physical limitations due to lung cancer or its treatment.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Friendsville area. They provide a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, especially for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, ride-share availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share services should also be factored into the overall healthcare access assessment. The reliability of these services is essential, as missed appointments or delays in treatment can have significant consequences.

Medical transportation services are another crucial element of the "Lung Cancer Score." Several companies specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other regional providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance, level of assistance required, and insurance coverage.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Friendsville, therefore, is a nuanced one. While the proximity to Maryville offers a shorter commute to healthcare, the need for specialized lung cancer treatment often necessitates travel to Knoxville. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-share services highlight the importance of careful planning and proactive strategies.

For individuals considering moving to Friendsville, it is essential to assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with a lung cancer diagnosis or a high risk of developing the disease should prioritize proximity to comprehensive cancer centers and consider the reliability and cost of transportation options. This includes exploring medical transportation services and ensuring access to ride-share options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also underscores the importance of advance planning. Scheduling appointments strategically, arranging transportation in advance, and having backup plans are essential. This is particularly critical during treatment, when patients may experience fatigue, nausea, or other side effects that can make driving difficult or impossible.

The decision to move to Friendsville should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While the community offers many appealing qualities, the ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively is paramount, especially when facing the challenges of lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a guide, urging prospective residents to consider all factors before making a decision. This allows for a well-informed choice, ensuring the best possible healthcare access in the event of a diagnosis or treatment.