38547, Brush Creek, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38547, Brush Creek, Tennessee is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.29 percent of residents in 38547 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 38547

The journey to healthcare, especially for a serious illness like lung cancer, is a critical component of a patient's overall well-being. This write-up explores the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 38547, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis or undergoing treatment. We will delve into the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to assess the accessibility of essential healthcare facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Brush Creek and evaluating the practicalities of their healthcare needs.

The primary concern is the distance and time required to reach specialized medical care. In 38547, the nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, necessitating travel. The most direct route for many residents involves using **Highway 111** south, followed by **Interstate 40** east towards Cookeville, Tennessee. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be subject to traffic delays, particularly during peak commuting hours. The drive to Cookeville Regional Medical Center, a key healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP Code.

Alternatively, accessing healthcare in Crossville, Tennessee, requires traversing **Highway 127** south. This route, while offering scenic views, can be more circuitous and may take longer due to slower speed limits and potential traffic congestion. The drive to Cumberland Medical Center in Crossville can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the starting point within 38547. These drive times highlight the importance of personal vehicle ownership for reliable access to medical appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatment sessions.

Public transportation options in 38547 are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The local transportation infrastructure primarily relies on personal vehicles. Currently, there are no established public bus routes that directly serve the community. This lack of public transit underscores the challenges faced by individuals who are unable to drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals with limited financial resources.

While public transit is currently absent, exploring the potential for future development is crucial. Implementing a local bus service, even with limited routes, could significantly improve healthcare access. This could involve partnering with local healthcare providers to establish designated stops near medical facilities. Such an initiative would necessitate careful planning, considering the specific needs of the community and ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide accessible transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, but their availability and affordability can vary. In 38547, the presence of these services might be limited compared to more urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies, cannot be guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a specialized solution. These services often provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may require advance booking.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 38547 is influenced by several factors. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized medical care. The absence of robust public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for individuals without personal vehicles. The distance to comprehensive cancer centers and the associated travel times further compound these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Brush Creek, a thorough evaluation of transportation options is paramount. Assessing the availability of personal vehicles, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the accessibility of medical transportation services is essential. Understanding the drive times to healthcare facilities and the potential for traffic delays is also critical.

Improving healthcare access in 38547 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and expanding the availability of medical transportation options are all crucial steps. Promoting community awareness about existing resources and advocating for policies that support healthcare access are also vital.

The Lung Cancer Score for 38547 is a dynamic measure, influenced by the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve transportation options. Continuous monitoring of these factors is essential to ensure that residents have equitable access to the care they need, especially those facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. The journey to healthcare should not be an additional burden, but a manageable and accessible part of the healing process.