38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38552, Chestnut Mound, Tennessee is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.00 percent of residents in 38552 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chestnut Mound (ZIP Code 38552)

Chestnut Mound, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of the Upper Cumberland region, offers a tranquil escape. However, the serenity of rural living presents unique challenges, particularly when facing a serious illness like lung cancer. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare resources for individuals residing in ZIP Code 38552, focusing on the critical element of transportation. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a practical guide to navigating the complexities of accessing potentially life-saving treatments.

The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Chestnut Mound or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access landscape. The focus is on the practical realities of getting to appointments, undergoing treatments, and receiving follow-up care. We aim to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation network.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 38552 is Cookeville, approximately 15 to 20 miles away. This short distance, however, can be deceiving. The journey is primarily undertaken via Tennessee State Route 56, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. The drive itself is scenic, winding through rolling hills and farmlands, but the lack of alternative routes can significantly impact travel times, especially in the event of an accident or inclement weather.

The drive to Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC), the primary hospital, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this time can easily double during rush hour or in adverse weather. The roads are not always well-maintained, and winter weather can make travel particularly hazardous. This variability underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative transportation options.

Public transportation in this area is limited. The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) provides some public transit options, but the service is not extensive. It is essential to contact UCHRA directly to inquire about routes and schedules. Services are often demand-response, meaning you must schedule rides in advance. This is particularly relevant for those needing regular treatments or appointments.

The UCHRA buses are generally ADA-accessible, offering ramps and other accommodations for passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and the need for advance booking can present significant barriers for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other debilitating side effects. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the Cookeville area, but their availability in Chestnut Mound is less certain. Demand can be low, leading to longer wait times or even the unavailability of rides. It is essential to check ride-sharing availability in advance, especially for early morning appointments or late-night discharges. The reliability of ride-sharing is a key consideration in assessing healthcare access.

Medical transport services are also available, offering specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services typically provide stretcher transport, wheelchair assistance, and trained medical personnel. However, they can be expensive and may require prior authorization from insurance companies. The cost and availability of medical transport services are critical factors in the overall Lung Cancer Score.

For individuals considering moving to Chestnut Mound, the transportation challenges must be carefully weighed against the benefits of rural living. The availability of family support, the proximity to nature, and the lower cost of living may be attractive, but the limitations of healthcare access must also be considered. Planning for transportation is crucial, especially for those with existing health conditions.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 38552 reflects the complexities of accessing healthcare. While Cookeville is relatively close, the reliance on a single highway, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. The score is not simply a numerical value; it is a comprehensive assessment of the realities of transportation and healthcare access.

The journey to healthcare in Chestnut Mound requires careful planning and resourcefulness. Understanding the limitations of the local transportation network is paramount. Residents must proactively explore all available options, from personal vehicles and family support to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The more prepared individuals are, the better equipped they will be to navigate the challenges of healthcare access.

The Lung Cancer Score is designed to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements. It is a call to action, urging residents of Chestnut Mound to advocate for improved transportation infrastructure and increased healthcare access. It is a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical professionals and facilities; it is also about the ability to get there.

The final Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 38552 is a complex calculation. It considers the drive times to CRMC, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the cost and accessibility of medical transport options. The score reflects the challenges of navigating the healthcare landscape in a rural environment.

The score acknowledges the importance of proactive planning. Patients and their families must develop contingency plans for transportation, including backup options in case of emergencies or inclement weather. The score emphasizes the need for community support. Neighbors, friends, and family members can play a vital role in providing transportation assistance.

The Lung Cancer Score is not intended to discourage anyone from moving to Chestnut Mound. It is a tool to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It is a reminder that healthcare access is a multifaceted issue, and transportation is a critical component. The score serves as a starting point for a more detailed assessment of healthcare access in this beautiful, but sometimes challenging, rural community.