37763, Kingston, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37763, Kingston, Tennessee is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.71 percent of residents in 37763 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Roane Medical Center with a distance of 4.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37763

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Kingston, Tennessee (ZIP code 37763), requires a comprehensive examination of healthcare access, with transportation playing a pivotal role. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services, offering a nuanced understanding for those considering moving to Kingston or seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

Kingston, nestled in Roane County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The town’s relatively small size and rural surroundings influence the availability and accessibility of medical services. While Kingston itself boasts local clinics and a hospital, the broader healthcare network often necessitates travel to nearby cities like Knoxville or Oak Ridge, significantly impacting the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Kingston are Interstate 40 (I-40) and U.S. Route 70. I-40 provides a direct route to Knoxville, approximately 30-45 minutes east, depending on traffic. This drive offers access to a vast array of specialized medical facilities, including the University of Tennessee Medical Center, Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, and numerous specialist clinics.

U.S. Route 70, running east-west, connects Kingston to neighboring towns and cities. Traveling west on U.S. 70 leads to Oak Ridge, approximately 15-20 minutes away, offering access to Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge and various outpatient facilities. The condition of these roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can impact drive times and pose safety concerns, especially for those with mobility issues or medical emergencies.

Smaller roads, such as State Route 58 and State Route 32, provide access to more localized healthcare options and residential areas within Kingston. However, these roads may be less maintained and can contribute to longer travel times, particularly during peak hours or in areas further removed from the town center.

**Public Transit:**

Public transit options in Kingston are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Roane County Senior Center offers a demand-response transportation service, primarily catering to seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service requires advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for non-emergency medical appointments.

There is no fixed-route bus service within Kingston or connecting to Knoxville or Oak Ridge. This absence of readily available public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The lack of accessible public transit options, particularly those with ADA features, further exacerbates healthcare access disparities for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Kingston, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies, can be unpredictable.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available in Kingston. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for residents of 37763 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors and the availability of healthcare services. While Kingston offers local healthcare options, the need to travel to Knoxville or Oak Ridge for specialized care or a wider range of services is a common reality. This reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options creates challenges for many residents.

The absence of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services contribute to healthcare access disparities, particularly for those with limited mobility, low incomes, or those who cannot drive. The cost of transportation, the time commitment involved in traveling to appointments, and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions can all negatively impact the overall health score.

**Moving to Kingston: Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Kingston, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the commute times to specialists and hospitals. Assessing the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services is equally important.

Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully research the limited options available and factor in the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. Understanding the healthcare landscape and transportation infrastructure is essential for making informed decisions about moving to Kingston and ensuring access to necessary medical care.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of 37763 reflects the complex interplay between healthcare access and transportation infrastructure. While Kingston offers local healthcare options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges for many residents. Improving healthcare access requires addressing the transportation barriers, exploring opportunities to enhance public transit, and ensuring that medical transport services are accessible and affordable. Ultimately, a comprehensive approach that considers the unique needs of the community will contribute to a higher overall health score and improve the well-being of all residents.