37354, Madisonville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37354, Madisonville, Tennessee is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.83 percent of residents in 37354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sweetwater Hospital Association with a distance of 8.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37354 (Madisonville, TN)

Understanding the ease with which residents of Madisonville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37354) can access healthcare is crucial for assessing overall community health. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of medical facilities, considering various transportation options and their associated challenges. The score will be determined by analyzing drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering **moving to Madisonville**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The geography of Madisonville and its surrounding areas, nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, presents unique challenges for **transportation** and, consequently, **healthcare access**. While the town itself is relatively compact, the nearest major medical facilities are often located in neighboring cities, requiring residents to navigate winding roads and potentially face significant travel times.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Access**

The primary roadways serving Madisonville are crucial arteries for accessing healthcare. The most direct route to larger hospitals in Knoxville, the regional medical hub, typically involves Interstate 75 (I-75). Driving south on I-75 from Madisonville to Knoxville (approximately 50 miles) can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, can significantly extend travel times.

Alternatively, residents can utilize US Highway 411, which runs north and south through Madisonville. While offering a more scenic route, Highway 411 is often slower, with a drive to Knoxville taking closer to an hour and a half. This route may be preferable for those heading to facilities in Maryville, approximately 40 miles north, but still requires navigating potentially congested areas.

Local roads like State Route 68 and State Route 360 provide access to smaller clinics and medical offices within Madisonville and nearby towns. However, these routes are often slower and less direct than the interstate or US highways. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety, further influencing the **healthcare access** score.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Madisonville are extremely limited, significantly impacting the **healthcare access** of those without personal vehicles. The local bus system, if it exists, likely operates on a very limited schedule, potentially restricting access to medical appointments, especially for those with mobility limitations.

The absence of a robust public transit system poses a considerable challenge for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a car. The lack of frequent routes and limited service hours can make it difficult, if not impossible, to reach medical facilities in a timely manner. The availability of ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and lifts, on any existing public transit is also a critical factor in assessing its usability for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps?**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Madisonville area, but their reliability and availability can vary. The presence of these services provides an alternative for those unable to drive or access public transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services may offer non-emergency medical transport. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing but can provide specialized assistance for patients with mobility issues or other medical needs. The availability and cost of these services are crucial factors in determining the **healthcare access** score.

**Medical Facilities and Their Proximity**

The presence of local clinics and medical offices within Madisonville itself is a positive factor. These facilities provide convenient access to primary care and some specialized services. However, the availability of more advanced medical care, such as specialized surgeries or intensive care, often requires travel to larger hospitals in Knoxville or other regional centers.

The distance to these larger hospitals, along with the accessibility of transportation options, significantly impacts the overall health score. Shorter drive times, readily available public transit, and affordable ride-sharing or medical transportation options all contribute to a higher score.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed above, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 37354 is moderate. While Madisonville offers some local medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing more comprehensive care, coupled with the limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation, creates significant challenges for some residents.

The drive times to major medical centers in Knoxville can be substantial, and the availability of reliable and affordable transportation options is not guaranteed. The score reflects the need for improvements in public transportation infrastructure, ride-sharing availability, and potentially, the expansion of local medical services to enhance **healthcare access** for all residents. This is an important consideration for anyone **moving to Madisonville**, as it directly affects their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.