37729, Duff, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37729, Duff, Tennessee is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.14 percent of residents in 37729 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lafollette Medical Center with a distance of 10.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37729 (Duff, TN)

Welcome to a comprehensive analysis of healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 37729, encompassing the community of Duff, Tennessee. This report, designed to inform potential residents and current inhabitants alike, provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease with which individuals can access essential medical services. We will explore the various transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative methods, to paint a vivid picture of healthcare access within this rural landscape. The goal is to empower you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about your health and well-being, especially if you are **moving to Duff**.

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to provide timely and efficient access to medical care. Factors such as proximity to hospitals, specialist availability, and the ease of transportation significantly influence the overall health score. In Duff, a rural community nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, these factors present unique challenges and opportunities. This analysis considers all of these elements to give you a clear understanding of healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Duff is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents certain limitations. The primary thoroughfare connecting Duff to larger population centers is US-25E. This highway, though offering a direct route, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the city of LaFollette. Driving to the nearest major hospital, Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, will take approximately one hour, depending on traffic conditions. This drive requires navigating US-25E and then I-75 South.

Local roads, such as TN-63 and TN-90, provide alternative routes but are often winding and can add to travel time. These roads are essential for accessing local clinics and pharmacies, but their rural nature means longer travel times. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can significantly impact healthcare access, making timely medical attention more challenging. The ability to drive safely and efficiently is a critical factor in the overall health score for Duff.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Duff are extremely limited. The primary provider for the region is the Anderson County Transportation Service (ACTS). ACTS operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is primarily designed for essential trips, including medical appointments, and serves the elderly and disabled populations. However, the service area is limited, and scheduling can be restrictive, making it a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs.

The absence of fixed-route public transit significantly impacts the overall health score. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle, particularly those with mobility limitations, face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. While ACTS strives to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the inherent limitations of a demand-response system mean that access to healthcare is not always readily available. This lack of robust **transportation** options is a major factor influencing the health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Duff is sporadic. While these services may be available, their reliability and cost can be prohibitive, especially for regular medical appointments. The rural nature of the area means that wait times can be extended, and the availability of drivers is not guaranteed. This makes ride-share a less dependable option for healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available in Duff. These services are essential for individuals requiring specialized care or unable to drive themselves. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability of specialized transport, such as ambulance services, can be affected by the remoteness of the area. The reliance on these services, while vital, can negatively impact the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

The overall health score for Duff reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare infrastructure, and the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. While the area offers some local clinics and pharmacies, the limited access to specialized medical services, such as specialists and hospitals, presents a significant challenge. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public transit and ride-share options, further complicates healthcare access.

**Moving to Duff** requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with chronic health conditions, or those requiring frequent medical appointments, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available. Understanding the drive times to hospitals, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs of medical transport is crucial for making an informed decision.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Duff is influenced by the availability of healthcare providers. The proximity of the community to larger cities, such as Knoxville and Oak Ridge, offers access to a wider range of medical services. However, the travel time required to reach these facilities is a significant factor. The overall health score takes into account the balance between local resources and the need to travel for specialized care.

**The Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the overall health score for access to healthcare in ZIP Code 37729 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the sporadic availability of ride-share services present challenges for many residents. The drive times to major hospitals and the availability of specialized medical services also impact the score.

However, the presence of local clinics, pharmacies, and medical transport services provides a degree of healthcare access. The community's proximity to larger cities offers access to a wider range of medical services, though the travel time required to reach these facilities must be considered. The overall health score reflects a balance between the challenges and opportunities of healthcare access in this rural environment.

For those considering **moving to Duff**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** options and the limitations of **healthcare access** is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual healthcare needs and assess whether the available resources meet those needs. This report provides a starting point for that evaluation, offering a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Duff, Tennessee.