37840, Oliver Springs, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37840, Oliver Springs, Tennessee is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.58 percent of residents in 37840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Methodist Medical Center Of Oak Ridge with a distance of 6.01 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oliver Springs, TN (ZIP Code 37840)

Considering a move to Oliver Springs, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37840), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," considering the crucial element of **transportation** to and from essential medical facilities. Understanding the journey is paramount when facing a potentially life-altering diagnosis. This write-up will illuminate the available options, detailing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** in this rural community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, acknowledging the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape. It considers the availability, reliability, and ease of **transportation** options, directly impacting a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Oliver Springs** or those already residing in the area.

Oliver Springs is a charming town nestled in the Appalachian foothills. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The nearest facilities offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment are located in Knoxville, a city approximately 40-50 miles away. This distance significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," as it necessitates reliable **transportation** for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents will be personal vehicles. Driving to Knoxville involves navigating a combination of highways and local roads. The most direct route typically utilizes Highway 61 (Oak Ridge Turnpike) east, connecting to Interstate 75 (I-75) south. Expect drive times to major Knoxville hospitals, such as the University of Tennessee Medical Center or Covenant Health facilities, to range from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Highway 61 can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near Oak Ridge. Additionally, be aware of potential delays due to accidents or construction.

Alternative routes exist, though they generally add to the travel time. One option involves taking Highway 328 south towards Clinton, then connecting to I-75. This route may offer a slightly less congested alternative to Highway 61, but it adds approximately 15-20 minutes to the overall journey. The condition of the roads is generally good, but be prepared for winding mountain roads in certain sections, especially when using secondary routes.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Oliver Springs. The Anderson County Transit Authority (ACT) provides some bus services within the county, but routes to Knoxville are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. Information on ACT routes and schedules can be found on their website or by contacting them directly. Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities, such as wheelchair lifts, should be confirmed with ACT prior to travel. The limited public **transportation** significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score" for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Oliver Springs and Knoxville. However, their reliability and availability can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Securing a ride-share for regular appointments, especially those requiring early morning or late evening **transportation**, may prove challenging. Ride-share fares can also accumulate significantly over time, adding to the financial burden of treatment. The fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing contribute to a lower "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical **transportation** services are available, offering specialized assistance for patients needing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies operate in the Knoxville area, including but not limited to, AMR (American Medical Response), and several smaller, locally-owned providers. Researching and contacting these services in advance is crucial. Confirming insurance coverage and understanding the associated costs is essential. While medical **transportation** services improve the "Lung Cancer Score," they can be costly and require pre-planning.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Oliver Springs, considering **transportation** and **healthcare access**, is moderate. While Knoxville offers excellent medical facilities, the distance and limited **transportation** options present significant challenges. Individuals **moving to Oliver Springs** or already residing there should carefully consider these factors.

The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is crucial. Planning for potential delays, such as traffic or inclement weather, is essential. Exploring and establishing relationships with medical **transportation** providers is recommended. Investigating the availability of support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, to assist with **transportation** needs is also beneficial.

For individuals with mobility limitations, the challenges are amplified. Thoroughly researching the accessibility features of public **transportation** options, if available, is crucial. Exploring medical **transportation** services and ensuring their availability and affordability is paramount.

The "Lung Cancer Score" can be improved through proactive planning and resourcefulness. Seeking referrals to oncologists and treatment centers in Knoxville before **moving to Oliver Springs** can help streamline the transition. Learning about patient support groups and resources in the Knoxville area can provide valuable assistance.

In conclusion, while Oliver Springs offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the distance to specialized medical care necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the need for proactive planning, reliance on personal vehicles, and exploration of alternative **transportation** solutions. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals seeking to ensure timely and consistent access to lung cancer treatment. The journey to healthcare in ZIP Code 37840 requires careful navigation, but with diligent planning, it can be managed effectively.