37766, La Follette, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37766, La Follette, Tennessee is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.67 percent of residents in 37766 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lafollette Medical Center with a distance of 1.85 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37766 (La Follette, TN)

ZIP Code 37766, encompassing the city of La Follette, Tennessee, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing its residents’ overall health score, particularly concerning access to healthcare. This analysis delves into the multifaceted landscape of transportation options available to residents, evaluating the impact of commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions on their ability to reach essential medical services. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to La Follette.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in La Follette is the geographical reality of its location within Campbell County. The city is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, a factor that directly impacts transportation infrastructure. The primary thoroughfare, **Highway 63**, serves as the lifeline connecting La Follette to Knoxville and other surrounding areas. This highway is essential for accessing specialized medical facilities and tertiary care centers located outside of the immediate La Follette area.

Commute times to healthcare facilities are a critical determinant of the overall health score. Within La Follette, residents have access to the **La Follette Medical Center**, offering a range of primary care and some specialized services. However, for more complex medical needs, residents often need to travel to Knoxville, approximately 40-50 miles away. The drive along **Highway 63** and then onto **I-75** can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, or those requiring frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in La Follette are limited. The **Campbell County Public Transportation System** provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. These services are available to the general public and are especially important for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The system's vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, to ensure accessibility for all residents. However, the system's operational hours and the necessity of advance booking can restrict its usefulness for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers an alternative transportation solution. However, the presence of these services in La Follette is inconsistent. Their availability is often limited by the demand and the availability of drivers. Consequently, relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments may not be a dependable option, particularly for individuals living in more remote areas of the ZIP code.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are crucial for individuals requiring assistance. **Campbell County EMS** provides emergency medical services, while NEMT services are available for non-emergency medical appointments. These services, while vital, can be costly, and the availability of NEMT services may be restricted by insurance coverage and the availability of providers. This can further impact the healthcare access of residents.

The overall health score for 37766 is significantly influenced by the transportation challenges. While La Follette offers local medical facilities, the need to travel to Knoxville for specialized care adds considerable time and potential stress to the healthcare journey. The limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services contribute to the overall complexity of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to La Follette, a careful evaluation of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments should factor in the travel time and potential transportation costs when making their decision. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services is crucial.

The local government and healthcare providers are actively working to improve healthcare access. This includes efforts to expand telemedicine services, which can reduce the need for in-person visits, and initiatives to improve public transportation options. These efforts are crucial for enhancing the overall health score of the community.

The quality of life in La Follette is undoubtedly affected by the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. The ability to efficiently and affordably reach medical services is a fundamental aspect of well-being. The current situation necessitates a proactive approach from both residents and local authorities to mitigate the barriers and improve the overall health outcomes for the community.

The health score is also impacted by the social determinants of health, including socioeconomic factors. Poverty rates in La Follette are higher than the national average, which can limit access to resources and healthcare. This adds another layer of complexity to the transportation challenges.

The future of healthcare access in La Follette depends on continued investment in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the development of innovative solutions to address the unique challenges posed by the city's geographical location and socioeconomic profile. The overall health score is a dynamic measure, constantly evolving with the changes in the community.