38233, Kenton, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38233, Kenton, Tennessee is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.21 percent of residents in 38233 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Psychiatric Care-Martin with a distance of 13.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kenton, TN (ZIP Code 38233)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and efficient access to care. In the quiet community of Kenton, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38233), the reality of healthcare access hinges on the intricate web of transportation options available. This write-up will delve into the specifics of navigating the journey from Kenton to the nearest comprehensive lung cancer treatment centers, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment based on the practicalities of getting there. We will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and possibilities for those facing this formidable disease.

Kenton, a small town nestled in West Tennessee, presents a unique challenge. The nearest facilities equipped to handle the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care are located in larger regional hubs. This necessitates a reliance on **transportation** systems, making the journey to **healthcare access** a critical factor in patient outcomes. For those **moving to Kenton**, understanding these logistical hurdles is paramount.

The primary mode of transportation for most Kenton residents is personal vehicle. The most direct route to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers involves navigating the rural landscape. Jackson, Tennessee, approximately 30 miles south, houses West Tennessee Healthcare's Jackson-Madison County General Hospital, a facility offering oncology services. The journey typically begins on Highway 45, a major artery connecting Kenton to Jackson. The drive is generally straightforward, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the driver's speed.

Further afield, Memphis, roughly 100 miles west, offers more specialized care options, including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (adult oncology services), Methodist Healthcare, and Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis. Reaching Memphis from Kenton requires a longer commitment, typically involving travel on Highway 45 North to Interstate 40 West. The drive time is estimated at 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic, which can be particularly heavy during peak hours. This longer commute significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score" due to the increased time commitment and potential for patient fatigue.

Public transit options in Kenton are severely limited. The absence of a robust public transportation system significantly reduces the options for those without personal vehicles. There are no readily available bus routes or train services that directly connect Kenton to Jackson or Memphis. This lack of accessible **transportation** poses a substantial barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The absence of a public transit system also impacts the availability of ADA-compliant **transportation**. Individuals with disabilities, who may already be dealing with the physical limitations of lung cancer, are further disadvantaged by the lack of accessible options. This underscores the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Jackson and Memphis. However, their presence in Kenton is sporadic and unreliable. Securing a ride-share in Kenton, particularly during off-peak hours or for medical appointments, is not guaranteed. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the **healthcare access** equation. The cost of ride-sharing, particularly for longer distances, can also be a significant financial burden for patients and their families.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and AirMed provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be pre-booked and offer a more reliable and comfortable option for patients. However, they come at a premium price, making them less accessible to those with limited financial resources. The availability of these services in Kenton and the surrounding areas needs to be verified.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Kenton, TN (38233) is negatively impacted by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a dependency on the patient or a caregiver to drive. The lack of public transit, unreliable ride-sharing, and the expense of medical **transportation** services present significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The distance to comprehensive cancer centers, particularly Memphis, further exacerbates the challenges.

For individuals **moving to Kenton** or already residing there and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a reliable **transportation** network is crucial. This may involve identifying a designated driver, coordinating with family and friends, or exploring medical **transportation** options. Understanding the limitations of the local **transportation** landscape is the first step in mitigating its impact on the treatment journey.

The journey to **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients in Kenton is a complex one. While the community itself offers a tranquil setting, the lack of readily available **transportation** options presents a significant hurdle. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the challenges of navigating this landscape, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness in ensuring timely and effective care.