38023, Drummonds, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38023, Drummonds, Tennessee is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.62 percent of residents in 38023 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital Tipton with a distance of 13.74 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Drummonds, TN (ZIP Code 38023)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands a comprehensive understanding of the local landscape. This assessment, a "Lung Cancer Score," focuses on the transportation and healthcare access dynamics within and surrounding Drummonds, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38023). This analysis aims to provide prospective residents with crucial information, particularly those considering a move to Drummonds and its surrounding areas. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local healthcare infrastructure.

Drummonds, a rural community nestled in Tipton County, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary consideration for any resident, especially those requiring specialized care, is the availability of transportation to medical facilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to gauge the ease of reaching essential healthcare providers. The score reflects the potential impact of these factors on patients undergoing treatment for lung cancer, a disease requiring frequent and often time-sensitive medical appointments.

The primary method of transportation in and out of Drummonds is by personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **Highway 51**, a vital artery connecting Drummonds to the larger towns of Covington and Millington. Traveling south on Highway 51 provides access to Memphis, a major metropolitan center boasting numerous hospitals and specialized cancer treatment centers. The drive to Memphis can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Another important route is **Highway 179**, offering a more direct connection to Covington. This route is generally less congested than Highway 51, providing an alternative for those seeking care in Covington or needing to avoid potential traffic delays. The condition of these roads is generally good, but weather conditions, especially during winter, can impact travel times.

Considering the potential for delays, particularly for patients undergoing treatment, the "Lung Cancer Score" must account for the impact of traffic congestion. Rush hour in Memphis can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting the timely arrival of patients for appointments or treatments. This is a critical factor for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where adherence to schedules is paramount.

Public transportation options in Drummonds are extremely limited. There is no established public bus service directly serving the area. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their medical condition. This is a significant disadvantage when compared to urban areas with extensive public transportation networks.

The absence of robust public transportation necessitates a reliance on alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Memphis area. However, their availability in Drummonds and surrounding rural areas is less reliable. Ride-share availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for some patients, adding to the financial burden of cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another potential solution. Several companies operate in the Memphis area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly. However, they provide a crucial lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of transportation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance of Drummonds. The closest hospitals are located in Covington and Millington. Covington, a smaller town, offers a local hospital with basic medical services. Millington, closer to Memphis, provides access to a wider range of medical specialties.

Memphis, with its numerous hospitals and cancer treatment centers, is the primary destination for specialized care. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and Baptist Memorial Hospital are among the major healthcare providers in the city. These facilities offer comprehensive cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The distance to these facilities, however, necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a measure of distance. It is a composite of factors that influence healthcare access. The reliability of transportation, the availability of specialized medical services, and the financial burden of accessing care all contribute to the overall score. For residents of Drummonds, the score reflects the challenges of living in a rural area with limited public transportation options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Drummonds reflects the challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare, particularly those undergoing cancer treatment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation solutions. The cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can also pose a significant financial burden.

The score is not static. It can be influenced by individual circumstances, such as access to a support network of family and friends who can provide transportation. The score also highlights the importance of advocating for improved public transportation options and increased access to affordable medical transportation services in rural areas.

For those considering moving to Drummonds, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a crucial tool for informed decision-making. It underscores the importance of assessing individual healthcare needs and carefully evaluating the available transportation and healthcare access options. The score encourages prospective residents to research local resources, including hospitals, cancer treatment centers, and transportation services, to ensure their healthcare needs can be met effectively.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 38023 reflects a complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access factors. While the proximity to Memphis provides access to specialized medical care, the lack of public transportation and the potential for transportation challenges necessitate careful planning and reliance on alternative options. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of considering these factors when making decisions about healthcare and relocation, especially when considering moving to Drummonds.