38554, Crawford, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38554, Crawford, Tennessee is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.26 percent of residents in 38554 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Livingston Regional Hospital with a distance of 13.35 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crawford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38554)

The air in Crawford, Tennessee, a community nestled within the Cumberland Plateau, holds the promise of tranquility. But beneath the surface of this idyllic landscape lies a reality: the challenge of **healthcare access**. For residents, particularly those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer, the journey to quality care becomes a crucial aspect of their fight. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 38554, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options and their impact on a hypothetical “Lung Cancer Score,” reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching vital medical resources.

Imagine a resident, let's call her Sarah, recently diagnosed with lung cancer. Her treatment plan, requiring regular appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, and consultations, necessitates reliable **transportation**. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The higher the score, the better the access, and the less burden placed on a patient like Sarah.

Crawford, TN, is a rural community. The primary mode of **transportation** is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The nearest major healthcare facilities are in Cookeville, approximately 20 miles to the east, and Crossville, roughly 30 miles to the southwest. The drive to Cookeville, home to Cookeville Regional Medical Center, typically involves navigating State Route 111 (SR-111), a major north-south artery. Traffic flow is generally moderate, but during peak hours, especially in the mornings and evenings, delays are possible. The route is primarily two-lane, and while well-maintained, it can be challenging during inclement weather.

Reaching Cumberland Medical Center in Crossville requires a journey along SR-127, followed by Interstate 40 (I-40). This route offers a slightly faster option due to the interstate, but it also involves more distance and potential for traffic congestion. Both Cookeville and Crossville offer comprehensive cancer care, including oncology specialists, radiation therapy, and surgical services. The drive times, under normal conditions, range from 30 to 45 minutes, representing a moderate challenge for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

Public transit options within ZIP code 38554 are extremely limited. Putnam County, where Cookeville is located, does offer a public transit system, but its routes are primarily focused within the city limits and do not extend significantly into the rural areas surrounding Crawford. Furthermore, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes are unlikely to be convenient for patients requiring regular medical appointments. While the transit system adheres to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, with accessible buses and features, the lack of service to Crawford renders it largely irrelevant for our hypothetical patient, Sarah.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cookeville and Crossville. However, their availability in Crawford itself is less reliable. The response times for ride requests can be significantly longer in rural areas, and surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can add a substantial financial burden. For a patient like Sarah, relying on ride-share for frequent appointments could prove to be an expensive and unpredictable option.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their travels. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services typically involve a fee, but they can be a valuable resource for patients who are unable to drive themselves or lack access to other **transportation** options. However, the availability of these services can vary, and booking in advance is often required.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Crawford, TN, reflects these realities. The score is negatively impacted by the limited public transit, the variable availability of ride-share services, and the reliance on personal vehicles. While medical transport services offer a viable alternative, their cost and availability must be considered. The score is moderately improved by the relatively short drive times to Cookeville and Crossville, where comprehensive cancer care is available.

Considering Sarah's situation, the score would be influenced by several factors. Her ability to drive, her financial resources, and the availability of support from family or friends would all play a role. If Sarah is unable to drive and has limited financial resources, her Lung Cancer Score would be significantly lower, highlighting the challenges she faces in accessing vital care.

The decision to move to Crawford, TN, or any rural community, requires careful consideration of **healthcare access**. While the tranquility and natural beauty of the area are undeniable, the challenges of **transportation** to medical facilities must be weighed. For individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as lung cancer, this becomes a critical factor.

The journey to better **healthcare access** in Crawford, TN, requires a multifaceted approach. Strengthening the local public transit system, expanding ride-share availability, and promoting awareness of medical transport services are all crucial steps. Furthermore, community initiatives that provide support and assistance to patients facing **transportation** challenges can make a significant difference.

For Sarah, and others like her, navigating the complexities of **transportation** is an essential part of their fight against lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that access to quality care is not just about medical expertise; it is also about the ability to get there. This score emphasizes the importance of community support, improved **transportation** infrastructure, and a commitment to ensuring that all residents, regardless of their location, have equal opportunities to receive the care they need.