38556, Jamestown, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38556, Jamestown, Tennessee is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.01 percent of residents in 38556 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Livingston Regional Hospital with a distance of 22.74 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jamestown, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38556)

The air hangs a little heavier in Jamestown, Tennessee, a rural community nestled in the Cumberland Plateau. The rolling hills and quiet life offer a certain charm, but for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the distance to quality healthcare presents a significant hurdle. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the complexities of accessing vital medical services within and around ZIP Code 38556, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Considering the challenges of **transportation** in a rural setting is paramount for individuals considering **moving to Jamestown** or already residing there, especially when facing a serious illness.

The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. It's a snapshot, a starting point for understanding the realities of healthcare access, not a definitive judgment.

**The Geography of Healthcare Access**

Jamestown, the county seat of Fentress County, is geographically isolated. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in larger cities, demanding considerable travel. This isolation significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." The primary routes for accessing healthcare are by car, with limited alternatives.

**Driving Distances and Roadways**

The most direct route to larger medical facilities involves navigating the region's highways and roads. The journey to Knoxville, home to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major cancer treatment facility, is approximately 90 miles, taking roughly 2 to 2.5 hours by car. This trip typically involves taking US-127 South, a two-lane highway that can be prone to traffic, especially during peak hours. The route then merges onto I-40 East, a major interstate, for the final leg of the journey.

Alternatively, residents may consider Cookeville Regional Medical Center, located about 40 miles south in Cookeville. The drive, primarily on TN-127 South, takes approximately an hour. While closer, Cookeville's cancer care may not offer the same breadth of specialized services as the facilities in Knoxville. The roads, while generally well-maintained, can be challenging during inclement weather, further complicating **transportation** logistics.

Nashville, another potential destination for specialized cancer treatment, is approximately 120 miles west, a drive of around 2.5 to 3 hours. This journey involves taking TN-127 South to I-40 West. The **healthcare access** challenges are compounded by the time commitment required for these trips, impacting treatment schedules and the ability to maintain a support network.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in Jamestown is extremely limited. Fentress County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of reliable public **transportation** significantly restricts **healthcare access**, especially for those unable to drive or without access to a personal vehicle. This deficiency contributes heavily to a lower "Lung Cancer Score."

**ADA Considerations:** The lack of public transit options also means there are no readily available ADA-compliant routes. Individuals with mobility limitations face significant challenges in accessing medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, but their availability is often inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Jamestown. Securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or late-night discharges, can be problematic. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, adding a financial burden to the already stressful experience of battling cancer.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and smaller, local providers may offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically involve scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments. However, availability may be limited, and pre-booking is essential. The cost of NEMT can vary significantly depending on the distance and level of care required.

**Medical Transport Brands:** While specific medical transport brands operating directly within ZIP Code 38556 are difficult to pinpoint without extensive research, the major national providers like AMR often service the broader region. Local ambulance services may also offer non-emergency transport.

**The Impact on the "Lung Cancer Score"**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Jamestown, Tennessee (38556) is significantly impacted by the challenges of **transportation**. The long drive times to specialized cancer centers, the absence of a public transit system, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. This score reflects the real-world difficulties faced by individuals seeking timely and convenient access to cancer care.

**Considerations for Moving to Jamestown**

For those considering **moving to Jamestown**, particularly those with a history of cancer or other chronic illnesses, the limitations of **healthcare access** should be a primary consideration. The need for frequent medical appointments, chemotherapy treatments, and radiation therapy can be significantly complicated by the travel distances and lack of readily available **transportation** options.

**Improving Healthcare Access**

Addressing the **healthcare access** challenges in Jamestown requires a multi-pronged approach. Increased investment in public **transportation**, potentially through partnerships with neighboring counties or the establishment of a local transit system, would be a significant step forward. Expanding the availability of NEMT services and ensuring their affordability is crucial. Telemedicine initiatives, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, could also mitigate the impact of long travel times.

**Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Jamestown (38556) highlights the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the distance to specialized cancer care, coupled with limited **transportation** options, creates a significant barrier for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding these challenges is vital for residents and those considering **moving to Jamestown**, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The score underscores the need for continued efforts to improve **healthcare access** in rural communities, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to receive timely and effective cancer care.