37828, Norris, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37828, Norris, Tennessee is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.34 percent of residents in 37828 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Norris, TN (ZIP Code 37828)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Norris, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37828), requires a comprehensive look at healthcare access, significantly impacted by transportation infrastructure. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty in accessing vital medical care. The goal is to provide a realistic understanding for those considering moving to Norris and their ability to maintain their health.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Norris is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's relatively rural setting means public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services may have variable availability. Therefore, a strong emphasis is placed on the efficiency of roadways and the potential challenges they pose.

Driving to healthcare appointments in and around Norris involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. The primary thoroughfare is **Highway 61**, which connects Norris to surrounding communities and healthcare facilities. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, especially near Clinton. **Highway 441**, another crucial artery, provides access to Knoxville and its extensive medical resources. Driving on these highways is usually straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can impact travel times and safety.

Local roads, such as **Andersonville Highway** and **Clinton Highway**, offer alternative routes, but they often involve more winding paths and slower speeds. Residents must also consider the potential for delays due to accidents, construction, or unexpected road closures. The overall drive time to a healthcare facility is therefore a crucial factor in assessing the health score.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the specific location and the type of care required. The closest options include medical clinics and general practitioners in Clinton, a drive that typically takes 15-20 minutes via Highway 61. For specialized care, residents often need to travel to Knoxville, a journey that can take 30-45 minutes or longer, depending on the destination and traffic conditions on Highway 441. Emergency situations may require a faster response time, making proximity to emergency services a critical consideration.

Public transportation options in Norris are limited. The **Anderson County Transit Authority (ACTA)** provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Information regarding route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is essential for residents who rely on public transit. The ACTA website should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. Unfortunately, the limited scope of ACTA makes it less viable for many residents.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the importance of personal vehicles. This situation can create challenges for those who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. Such individuals may face significant barriers in accessing healthcare, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Knoxville area and may be accessible in Norris, though availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services for urgent medical needs is another concern.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs. The availability of these services and the associated costs should be investigated.

The overall health score for Norris residents is significantly influenced by the availability and accessibility of healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly for specialized care in Knoxville, are a significant factor.

The ease of accessing healthcare is a key consideration for anyone considering moving to Norris. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services that meet their individual needs. The ability to maintain good health is directly linked to the ability to access medical care.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of emergency medical services. The proximity of emergency rooms and the response times of ambulances are critical factors in ensuring timely medical attention in critical situations. The location of the nearest hospitals and the efficiency of emergency transport systems should be carefully considered.

The cost of healthcare is another important factor. The cost of medical care, including doctor's visits, medications, and hospital stays, can vary. The availability of health insurance and the affordability of healthcare services are critical considerations for residents of Norris.

The overall health score for Norris, Tennessee, is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare facilities, the cost of healthcare, and the accessibility of emergency medical services all play a role. Residents must carefully consider these factors when assessing their ability to maintain good health.

The overall health score for Norris, Tennessee, reflects the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. However, the proximity to Knoxville and its extensive medical resources offers opportunities for accessing a wide range of healthcare services.

The overall health score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's ability to support the health and well-being of its residents. The challenges in transportation and healthcare access must be addressed to ensure that all residents of Norris have the opportunity to live long, healthy lives. This is especially important for anyone moving to Norris.