38133, Memphis, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38133, Memphis, Tennessee is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.42 percent of residents in 38133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Francis Bartlett Medical Center with a distance of 0.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 38133

Considering a move to Memphis, specifically ZIP code 38133? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a framework for assessing healthcare access related to lung cancer treatment, emphasizing transportation options. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This is especially pertinent given the challenges lung cancer patients face, requiring frequent appointments and potentially urgent care.

Our analysis focuses on transportation infrastructure, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This comprehensive approach aims to illuminate the practical realities of accessing healthcare within this specific geographic area. We will evaluate the accessibility of key healthcare facilities, specifically those offering comprehensive lung cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment. It considers the availability and efficiency of transportation options, factoring in potential delays, accessibility challenges, and overall convenience. The goal is to provide prospective residents with a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape in 38133, empowering them to make informed decisions.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Residents of 38133 have several options for reaching major healthcare providers. The primary thoroughfare is **I-240**, a vital loop around Memphis, connecting to numerous hospitals and medical centers. Driving to the **West Cancer Center & Research Institute** in Germantown, renowned for its oncology services, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves using **I-240** and then transitioning onto **Poplar Avenue**, a major east-west artery.

**Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis**, a comprehensive hospital with a robust oncology department, is accessible via **I-240**. The drive time is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally straightforward, utilizing **I-240** and exiting onto **Poplar Avenue** or **Union Avenue**.

**Methodist University Hospital**, another major healthcare provider, is accessible via **I-240**. The drive time is also about 20-30 minutes. The route involves **I-240** and then exiting onto **Union Avenue** or **Poplar Avenue**.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. The **I-240** corridor is known for its heavy traffic, potentially adding considerable time to commutes. Residents should factor in these delays when planning appointments.

**Public Transportation:**

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides public transportation in 38133. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a more affordable transportation alternative.

**Route 42** and **Route 50** are key routes connecting 38133 to downtown Memphis and other areas with healthcare facilities. These routes provide access to the **Regional Medical Center (The MED)** and other downtown hospitals.

MATA buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, bus schedules and frequency can be a limiting factor, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments. Travel times on public transit are significantly longer than driving, often requiring transfers and extended wait times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in 38133, offering a convenient transportation option. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for parking and reducing the stress of navigating traffic. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like **CareRide** and **MedRide** operate in the Memphis area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare access in 38133 is a multifaceted issue. While the area benefits from its proximity to major medical centers, transportation challenges can significantly impact healthcare access, especially for individuals with limited mobility or financial resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 38133 is moderately positive. The area benefits from its proximity to major healthcare facilities and the availability of ride-sharing services. However, the reliance on **I-240** for accessing many of these facilities and the potential for traffic congestion can create delays. The limited frequency of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents.

**Moving to Memphis** and specifically to 38133, requires careful consideration of transportation needs, especially for those with existing health conditions or a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Prospective residents should research specific healthcare providers, assess their transportation options, and consider the potential impact of these factors on their access to care.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 38133 highlights the importance of comprehensive transportation planning for healthcare access. While the area offers access to quality medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful consideration. Prospective residents should evaluate their individual transportation needs, considering the potential impact of traffic, cost, and accessibility on their ability to receive timely and effective healthcare. This assessment underscores the need for proactive planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding the complexities of healthcare access within the context of transportation infrastructure.