37876, Sevierville, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37876, Sevierville, Tennessee is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.94 percent of residents in 37876 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Leconte Medical Center with a distance of 2.95 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sevierville (ZIP Code 37876)

Considering a move to the scenic beauty of Sevierville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37876)? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount, as timely and reliable transport is a critical factor in managing this complex disease. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease of accessing specialized care from this area.

The score will consider factors like drive times to key medical facilities, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It's a holistic view, acknowledging that navigating the healthcare system requires more than just a doctor's appointment; it demands consistent and dependable transportation.

Sevierville, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, presents unique transportation challenges. While the area offers natural beauty, its rural nature impacts healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare is **Interstate 40 (I-40)**, a vital artery connecting Sevierville to Knoxville, the regional hub for advanced medical care. **US-411** and **US-441** provide alternative routes, though they often involve more winding roads and potentially longer travel times, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The closest major hospital with comprehensive cancer services is **University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC)** in Knoxville. The drive to UTMC from Sevierville, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions, typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour via I-40. This drive time could be extended significantly during rush hour or when tourist traffic clogs the highways, particularly during the peak seasons.

Other healthcare facilities, such as **Parkwest Medical Center** and **Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center** in Knoxville, are also viable options. Drive times to these facilities are generally comparable to UTMC, typically falling within the 45-minute to one-hour range. These times are essential considerations for patients requiring regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where minimizing travel time is crucial for managing fatigue and overall well-being.

Public transportation options in Sevierville are limited. The **Sevier County Public Transportation System** offers some routes, but they are primarily designed for local travel and do not directly connect to Knoxville's major hospitals. Furthermore, the frequency of these routes may be insufficient for the needs of a cancer patient requiring frequent appointments. Information on ADA accessibility for these routes is essential, but this is not readily available.

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in Sevierville, offering a potential transportation solution. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas within the ZIP code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to and from Knoxville.

Medical transport services, such as **CareRide** and **MedTrans**, are available to provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing and may require advanced booking. The availability of these services and their specific coverage areas within ZIP code 37876 should be thoroughly investigated.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 37876 is influenced by the following: the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for long distances, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for increased travel times during peak traffic. While the drive to Knoxville's medical facilities is manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the potential for traffic delays create challenges for patients.

The score is also impacted by the availability and cost of medical transport services. These specialized services can provide reliable transportation, but their cost and the need for pre-booking can be a barrier for some patients. The overall assessment highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of transportation options when managing a lung cancer diagnosis in this area.

Moving to Sevierville offers a lifestyle change, but it's crucial to balance the benefits with the practical considerations of healthcare access. Individuals considering a move should thoroughly research the available transportation options, assess their financial resources for transportation costs, and familiarize themselves with the local healthcare providers. This proactive approach will ensure they can receive the necessary care and support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 37876 is moderate. While access to quality healthcare is available within a reasonable drive, the dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness. This score underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access, especially for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer. The score serves as a reminder that while the scenery is beautiful, the practicalities of transportation are crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes.