37705, Andersonville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37705, Andersonville, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.92 percent of residents in 37705 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.63 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Andersonville (ZIP Code 37705)

Andersonville, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian foothills, offers a serene escape for those seeking a quieter pace of life. However, before making the move, prospective residents must consider a critical aspect of their well-being: healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 37705, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and accessibility. We'll delve into the realities of getting to doctors, hospitals, and specialized care, painting a comprehensive picture for informed decision-making.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a nuanced evaluation considering various factors. These include the availability of different transportation modalities, the time commitment involved in reaching medical facilities, the presence of ADA-compliant options, and the cost associated with each mode. We'll also factor in the availability of specialized medical services and the overall healthcare infrastructure in the surrounding areas. This analysis aims to provide a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities for those prioritizing healthcare access when considering a move to Andersonville.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many residents of Andersonville, personal vehicles will be the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. The most direct route to major healthcare providers in Knoxville, the nearest metropolitan area, involves navigating several key roadways. The primary artery is **Interstate 75 (I-75)**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Access to I-75 from Andersonville is generally straightforward, typically requiring a short drive on local roads.

The drive to **University of Tennessee Medical Center**, a major tertiary care hospital, is approximately 30-45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This route involves taking I-75 south to the **I-640** interchange, then east on I-640 towards downtown Knoxville. The distance is roughly 25-30 miles, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend the travel time.

Another crucial healthcare destination is **Parkwest Medical Center**, located in West Knoxville. Reaching Parkwest involves a similar route, taking I-75 south to the **I-140 (Pellissippi Parkway)** interchange, then west on I-140. The drive to Parkwest is also around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the Knoxville area, offering potentially shorter drive times depending on their location. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to the larger hospitals, impacting the overall "Health Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in the Andersonville area are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Knoxville Area Transit (KAT)** system provides some bus service, but it primarily serves the city of Knoxville and its immediate suburbs. There is no direct bus route from Andersonville to Knoxville, making public transit a non-viable option for most healthcare appointments.

Individuals relying on public transportation would likely need to arrange a ride to a KAT bus stop, which could be a considerable distance, and then navigate multiple bus transfers to reach their destination. This process would be time-consuming and potentially exhausting, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic health conditions.

Moreover, the KAT system’s ADA accessibility features, while present on some routes, may not be consistently available on all routes or during all hours. This is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities who require accessible transportation. The lack of reliable public transit significantly lowers the "Health Score" for Andersonville residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: The Cost of Convenience**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Knoxville area and can provide a more convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, particularly for longer distances to hospitals and clinics. The fare for a ride from Andersonville to Knoxville could easily exceed $50 or more, making it an unaffordable option for some residents.

Medical transportation services, such as **Ambulance Service of Knoxville** and **MedStar Ambulance**, are available for individuals who require assistance with medical appointments. These services are typically reserved for those with specific medical needs, such as those who are unable to drive or require medical supervision during transport. The cost of medical transportation can be significantly higher than ride-sharing, and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation adds to the overall financial burden of healthcare access, further impacting the "Health Score."

**Specialized Care and the Healthcare Landscape**

The availability of specialized medical services is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. While Andersonville may have local primary care physicians, access to specialists such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists often requires travel to Knoxville or other regional medical centers. This further underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

The overall healthcare infrastructure in the surrounding areas, including the number of hospitals, clinics, and specialists, also influences the "Health Score." Knoxville boasts a robust healthcare system, with several major hospitals and a wide range of specialists. However, the distance from Andersonville to these facilities can still pose a significant barrier.

**ADA Accessibility: A Crucial Consideration**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is paramount when evaluating healthcare access. Ensuring that healthcare facilities, transportation options, and public spaces are accessible to individuals with disabilities is critical for promoting equitable healthcare access. This includes accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms.

While most healthcare facilities are ADA-compliant, the availability of accessible transportation options from Andersonville is limited. The lack of reliable public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. This factor negatively impacts the "Health Score."

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Andersonville (ZIP Code 37705) is moderate. The primary strength is the relatively short drive times to major healthcare providers in Knoxville via I-75 and other major highways. However, the weaknesses significantly impact the score. The lack of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the limited availability of medical transportation options create significant barriers for many residents. The distance to specialized care facilities and the reliance on personal vehicles further complicate the situation.

Prospective residents of Andersonville must carefully consider their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility may find healthcare access challenging. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the realities of healthcare access should be a primary consideration when deciding to move to Andersonville. The "Health Score" underscores the importance of planning for transportation and healthcare needs before making the move, ensuring a smooth transition and continued well-being.