37818, Mosheim, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37818, Mosheim, Tennessee is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.31 percent of residents in 37818 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greeneville Community Hospital with a distance of 9.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mosheim (ZIP Code 37818)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of spring in Mosheim, Tennessee, a rural community nestled in the foothills of the Smokies. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the beauty of the landscape can be overshadowed by the daunting reality of accessing specialized healthcare. This "Lung Cancer Score" provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options within and around ZIP Code 37818, focusing on the critical link between mobility and healthcare access. It's a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Mosheim, particularly those with pre-existing health concerns.

The very nature of lung cancer treatment demands consistent and often frequent appointments: diagnostic scans, chemotherapy sessions, radiation therapy, and follow-up consultations. These appointments can be physically taxing, making reliable transportation a cornerstone of effective care. This analysis examines the available transportation resources, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assesses their suitability for individuals navigating the challenges of lung cancer.

**The Road Ahead: Driving Times and Considerations**

For many Mosheim residents, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The relative isolation of the area necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including medical appointments. The closest major healthcare facilities are in Greeneville, approximately 10-15 minutes away, depending on traffic. The primary route is via **US-11E**, a well-maintained highway that connects Mosheim to Greeneville.

The drive to Johnson City, home to more specialized oncology services and larger hospitals, takes approximately 30-45 minutes via **I-81 South** and then **I-26 West**. This route is generally reliable, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. For residents further from the interstate, navigating the winding, two-lane roads like **TN-34** and **TN-93** can add time and require careful driving, especially during inclement weather.

The ease of driving is also influenced by physical limitations. Lung cancer patients often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms that can impair their ability to drive safely. The availability of a designated driver, a family member, or a friend becomes paramount. The financial burden of car maintenance, fuel, and potential parking fees at medical facilities further compounds the challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Mosheim are extremely limited. Greene County, like many rural areas, struggles with providing robust public transit infrastructure. There is no dedicated bus service that directly connects Mosheim to healthcare facilities in Greeneville or Johnson City. The absence of a reliable public transit system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The nearest public transit options would be in Greeneville, but even there, the services are not designed to facilitate frequent trips to medical appointments. The lack of ADA-compliant buses or routes that directly service hospitals and clinics further exacerbates the difficulties for individuals with mobility issues, making healthcare access even more challenging.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Options and Limitations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence in Mosheim is inconsistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments. The fluctuating availability and potential cost make ride-sharing an unreliable primary transportation option for lung cancer patients.

Medical transport services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and First Call Ambulance, offer specialized transportation for patients who require assistance. These services are typically reserved for individuals who cannot safely travel by other means, such as those who need medical supervision during transport. The cost of medical transport can be substantial and is often not fully covered by insurance, creating a significant financial burden.

**Navigating the Complexities: A Summary**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mosheim (ZIP Code 37818) reveals a complex transportation landscape. While the proximity to Greeneville offers relatively easy access to some healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and medical transport is costly.

For individuals considering moving to Mosheim, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of a reliable driver, the financial implications of transportation costs, and the potential for unexpected delays due to traffic or weather conditions.

**The Importance of Proactive Planning**

The best strategy involves proactive planning. This means establishing a network of support, including family, friends, and community resources. It also means exploring all available transportation options, including ride-sharing services and medical transport, and understanding the associated costs and limitations.

Furthermore, individuals should actively advocate for improved healthcare access in their community. This can involve supporting initiatives to expand public transit options, advocating for policies that support affordable transportation for patients, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with chronic illnesses.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a numerical assessment; it's a call to action. It highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access and underscores the importance of creating a supportive environment for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for their needs, residents of Mosheim can navigate the complexities of healthcare access and focus on their well-being.