37801, Maryville, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37801, Maryville, Tennessee is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.84 percent of residents in 37801 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 Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.01 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Maryville, TN (ZIP Code 37801)

Considering a move to Maryville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37801)? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," assessing the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare within this area, focusing on transportation options. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for lung cancer survival, making ease of access to healthcare a critical factor for anyone considering a move, especially those with a personal or family history of the disease. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a tool to help you understand the challenges and opportunities regarding transportation to healthcare facilities. This information is vital for anyone considering a move to Maryville, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or who anticipate needing regular medical appointments.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Recovery**

Maryville, a charming city nestled in Blount County, offers a relatively accessible healthcare landscape by car. However, drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. Primary healthcare providers, including oncologists, pulmonologists, and imaging centers, are concentrated in the Maryville area and nearby Knoxville.

The most direct route to Knoxville, where many specialized cancer treatment facilities are located, is via US-129, also known as the "Alcoa Highway." This highway provides a relatively smooth and efficient passage, with drive times to major Knoxville hospitals like the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) typically ranging from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Peak rush hour, particularly in the mornings and evenings, can extend these times, adding stress for patients needing timely appointments or emergency care.

Alternatively, motorists can utilize US-411, a more rural route that offers an alternative to the Alcoa Highway. While this route can be less congested, it may add 10-15 minutes to the travel time, particularly if one is headed to facilities in the western parts of Knoxville. Navigating these roads, especially during inclement weather, requires careful driving and planning.

For those seeking local healthcare options, the drive to Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville is typically less than 10 minutes. This proximity is a significant advantage, especially for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and emergency care. However, specialized treatments and certain advanced diagnostic procedures may necessitate travel to Knoxville.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Routes**

Public transportation options in Maryville and Blount County are limited, which can significantly impact healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The primary public transportation provider is the Blount County Transit (BCT). BCT operates several fixed routes, but their coverage is limited, and service frequency can be infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings.

Unfortunately, BCT routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities in the area, especially those located in Knoxville. This necessitates transfers and longer travel times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While BCT strives to provide accessible transportation, it's essential to confirm the availability of accessible services and plan accordingly.

The journey from Maryville to Knoxville via public transit can take over an hour, including transfers. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to accessing timely healthcare, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing debilitating symptoms. For those considering moving to Maryville, it's essential to assess the limitations of public transit and factor them into their healthcare access plan.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Maryville area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Ride-sharing costs can also add up, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as First Call Ambulance and other private companies, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While medical transport offers a valuable service, it can be expensive and may require advance booking.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 37801 considers the interplay of these transportation factors. Proximity to Blount Memorial Hospital provides a baseline advantage, but the reliance on driving for specialized care in Knoxville is a potential challenge. The limitations of public transit and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport further influence the score.

The score is not just about distance; it's about the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare. Individuals with lung cancer or at high risk need reliable and timely transportation to appointments, tests, and treatments. The Lung Cancer Score is designed to help you evaluate your healthcare access needs in Maryville.

**Moving to Maryville: Planning for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Maryville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will have a significant advantage. However, even for drivers, understanding potential traffic delays and planning for alternative routes is essential.

For those relying on public transportation, carefully researching BCT routes and schedules is critical. Exploring ride-sharing options and medical transport services is also advisable. Consider the financial implications of these services and factor them into your budget.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of proactive planning. Before making a move, research healthcare providers, assess transportation options, and create a healthcare access plan that meets your individual needs. This proactive approach will help ensure that your move to Maryville supports your health and well-being. This information is intended to provide a general overview and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or transportation advice.