37766, La Follette, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37766, La Follette, Tennessee is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.67 percent of residents in 37766 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lafollette Medical Center with a distance of 1.85 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in La Follette, TN (ZIP Code 37766)

Considering a move to La Follette, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37766), and curious about healthcare access, especially concerning lung cancer treatment? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating transportation options and potential challenges in reaching medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this serious disease. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural community.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a medical diagnosis tool. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare services related to lung cancer, considering the geographical constraints of the area. A higher score indicates better access, reflecting shorter travel times, more transportation options, and readily available resources. Conversely, a lower score highlights potential barriers to care, such as longer distances, limited public transit, and reliance on personal vehicles.

La Follette, nestled in Campbell County, presents unique transportation challenges. The town is relatively isolated, with limited public transit and a reliance on personal vehicles. The topography, characterized by rolling hills and valleys, further complicates travel. This assessment will examine the available options for those seeking lung cancer-related healthcare.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary means of transportation in and out of La Follette is by car. The primary highway is Interstate 75 (I-75), providing a crucial link to Knoxville, approximately 45 miles south. Accessing I-75 from La Follette typically involves navigating US Highway 25W (also known as North Main Street within La Follette). This route, while direct, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Drive times to specialized lung cancer treatment centers are a critical factor. The University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, a major regional healthcare provider, is likely the closest facility offering comprehensive lung cancer care. A drive to UT Medical Center via I-75 typically takes around one hour, assuming normal traffic conditions. This drive time significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Other hospitals in Knoxville, such as Parkwest Medical Center, may offer lung cancer services. Drive times to these facilities, also primarily via I-75, will be in a similar range, around one hour. The drive along I-75 is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can affect travel times.

The Lung Cancer Score is negatively affected by the drive times. The reliance on personal vehicles can pose a challenge for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive due to their health. The distance to specialized care centers necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within La Follette and Campbell County are extremely limited. The local public transit system, if it exists, may offer demand-response services, requiring advance scheduling. However, the availability and frequency of these services are likely restricted, making them an unreliable option for regular medical appointments, especially for those undergoing treatment.

The lack of a robust public transit system significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score. Patients relying on public transit would face considerable challenges in accessing timely and consistent healthcare. This limitation underscores the importance of alternative transportation options.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of any public transit is a critical factor. Any available services must provide accessible vehicles and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited nature of the public transit system in this area suggests that ADA-compliant options may be limited.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in La Follette, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a more reliable option for patients needing assistance. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements.

The presence of ride-sharing services slightly improves the Lung Cancer Score, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the potential unreliability and cost of these services limit their impact. Medical transport services offer a valuable resource, but their cost and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region. These include, but are not limited to, companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services. These services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and can be crucial for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score for La Follette (ZIP Code 37766)**

Considering the factors discussed, the Lung Cancer Score for La Follette (ZIP Code 37766) is moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The primary challenges are the reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times to specialized care centers, and the limited public transit options. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, their availability, cost, and reliability can be significant barriers.

**Moving to La Follette and Healthcare Planning**

For individuals considering moving to La Follette, TN, and concerned about lung cancer healthcare access, careful planning is essential. Assessing transportation needs, researching available medical transport options, and understanding the potential costs associated with healthcare access are critical steps.

Prioritizing a location within easy access to US Highway 25W and I-75 is advisable. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and understanding the availability of lung cancer screening and treatment options within the region is crucial.

The Lung Cancer Score is a starting point for evaluating healthcare access. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and considering all available transportation options to ensure timely and consistent access to care.