37804, Maryville, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37804, Maryville, Tennessee is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.70 percent of residents in 37804 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.24 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Maryville, TN (ZIP Code 37804)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands meticulous planning. For individuals contemplating a move to Maryville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37804), understanding the landscape of lung cancer care is paramount. This write-up delves into the crucial aspect of **transportation** to healthcare facilities, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment to aid in informed decision-making. We'll analyze drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, providing a comprehensive overview of **healthcare access** within this specific geographic area. This information is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Maryville** and concerned about their medical needs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a practical evaluation of the ease and efficiency of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare. It considers the time and effort required to reach critical services, acknowledging the physical and emotional toll associated with a cancer diagnosis. The score will be influenced by factors such as proximity to hospitals, specialist availability, and the reliability of **transportation** options.

Maryville, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger metropolitan areas. This geographic positioning significantly impacts **healthcare access**, creating a nuanced picture of **transportation** challenges and opportunities. The primary healthcare provider in the immediate vicinity is Blount Memorial Hospital, a cornerstone of the community. However, specialized care, including advanced lung cancer treatments, might necessitate travel to Knoxville, a larger city offering a wider array of specialists and facilities.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The cornerstone of **transportation** in Maryville is the automobile. Navigating the roadways is often the most direct route to healthcare. From most points within ZIP Code 37804, Blount Memorial Hospital is easily accessible. A drive to the hospital typically takes between 5 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code. Primary routes include US-129 (Alcoa Highway), a major artery connecting Maryville to Knoxville, and US-411, providing access to the eastern and southern parts of the county.

For specialized care in Knoxville, the drive time increases. The most direct route is via US-129, which merges with I-140 (Pellissippi Parkway) and then connects to I-40, the major interstate highway traversing the region. Depending on traffic, the journey to Knoxville's major hospitals, such as University of Tennessee Medical Center or Parkwest Medical Center, can range from 30 to 60 minutes. Rush hour, particularly on US-129 and I-40, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting timely access to appointments and treatments.

The condition of the roadways is generally good, but weather conditions, especially during winter, can pose challenges. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or disrupting travel to healthcare appointments. Therefore, residents should be prepared for potential delays and consider alternative **transportation** options during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public **transportation** in Maryville and Blount County is limited, but it does exist. The Blount County Public Transit (BCPT) operates a fixed-route bus service. However, the routes and frequency are limited, and the service is primarily designed to serve the general population, not specifically tailored to the needs of individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

The BCPT offers some routes that connect Maryville to Knoxville, but these routes are often infrequent and can involve significant travel times. The buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of comprehensive route coverage and limited frequency make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many lung cancer patients, particularly those undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue or mobility limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Maryville and Knoxville. These services offer a more flexible and convenient **transportation** alternative compared to public transit. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, offer another option. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like Senior Transportation Connection and others provide specialized medical **transportation** services in the region. While these services can offer a higher level of support and convenience, they typically come at a higher cost compared to ride-sharing or public transit.

**The Lung Cancer Score in Context: A Personalized Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 37804 is not a single number but a personalized assessment based on individual needs and circumstances. For individuals with access to a personal vehicle and the ability to drive, the score is relatively high, as Blount Memorial Hospital is easily accessible. However, the score decreases for those requiring specialized care in Knoxville, due to the longer travel times and potential for traffic delays.

For individuals reliant on public transit, the score is lower, reflecting the limitations of the BCPT system. The score also decreases for those with mobility limitations or requiring frequent treatments, as the reliance on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** adds to the financial burden and potential logistical challenges.

When **moving to Maryville**, potential residents should carefully consider their individual needs and the available **transportation** options. Proximity to Blount Memorial Hospital is a significant advantage, but access to specialized care in Knoxville requires careful planning. Assessing the reliability and cost of various **transportation** methods is crucial for ensuring timely access to essential healthcare services.

In conclusion, while Maryville offers a generally favorable environment for **healthcare access**, particularly for basic medical needs, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning, especially for individuals with complex healthcare requirements. Understanding the nuances of **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to medical **transportation** services, is essential for making an informed decision about **moving to Maryville** and ensuring access to the best possible lung cancer care. The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor to consider when making such a significant life change.