37701, Alcoa, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37701, Alcoa, Tennessee is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.45 percent of residents in 37701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37701 (Alcoa, TN)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of Alcoa, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37701), focusing on the critical element of **healthcare access** as determined by **transportation** options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Alcoa** and seeking to understand the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities.

The health score is not a static number but a reflection of the dynamic relationship between where people live and their ability to receive timely and effective medical care. It is a crucial factor in overall well-being.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The primary arteries for navigating Alcoa and reaching healthcare facilities are US-129 (also known as the "Alcoa Highway"), TN-35, and Pellissippi Parkway. These highways facilitate access to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices in the surrounding areas, primarily Knoxville and Maryville. The drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific destination.

During peak commuting hours, particularly weekday mornings and afternoons, traffic congestion on US-129 can be substantial, adding considerable time to journeys. The distance to the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, for example, is approximately 15-20 miles, translating to a drive time of 25-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, reaching Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville, about 5-7 miles away, can take 10-20 minutes.

The availability of alternative routes is limited. TN-35 offers a more direct route to Maryville, but it can also experience congestion. Pellissippi Parkway, while offering a faster route to Knoxville, requires navigating a complex network of interchanges and can also be affected by traffic bottlenecks. Residents considering **moving to Alcoa** should factor these potential delays into their healthcare planning.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transit options in Alcoa are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides some service to the area, but the frequency and coverage are restricted. Route 11, the "Alcoa Highway" route, offers service along US-129, connecting Alcoa to Knoxville. However, this route operates on a limited schedule, particularly on weekends, and may not adequately serve the needs of individuals requiring frequent or urgent medical care.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other accessibility features, is essential for individuals with disabilities. KAT strives to provide accessible services, but the reliability and convenience of these services in the Alcoa area are still a concern. The lack of comprehensive public transit makes **healthcare access** more difficult for those who cannot drive or afford other **transportation** alternatives.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Alcoa, offering a more flexible **transportation** option compared to public transit. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are available for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or medical needs. These services are crucial for those who cannot drive or use public transit due to their health conditions. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often required.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Alcoa area, including AMR (American Medical Response), Blount Memorial Ambulance Service, and various NEMT providers. The choice of service depends on the individual's medical needs, insurance coverage, and the urgency of the situation. For those considering **moving to Alcoa**, researching these services and understanding their coverage and costs is essential.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Considering the factors above, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 37701 is moderate. While the road network provides relatively good access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but their cost and availability can be limitations.

The score reflects the importance of considering all **transportation** options when assessing the ease of **healthcare access**. Individuals considering **moving to Alcoa** should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and plan accordingly. Those who rely on public transit, have mobility limitations, or lack access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in reaching medical appointments and receiving timely care.

Further improvements in public transit, including increased frequency, expanded coverage, and enhanced accessibility features, would significantly improve the health score and enhance the well-being of Alcoa residents. Collaboration between local authorities, healthcare providers, and **transportation** providers is crucial to address the existing **healthcare access** gaps and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need.