37849, Powell, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37849, Powell, Tennessee is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.46 percent of residents in 37849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Physicians Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Powell, TN (ZIP Code 37849)

Powell, Tennessee, a charming community nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offers a desirable blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to Knoxville. However, when considering a move to this area, prospective residents must carefully evaluate the critical element of healthcare access. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for the 37849 ZIP code, focusing on the complexities of transportation to medical facilities.

The accessibility of healthcare is a fundamental determinant of overall well-being. This score considers various modes of **transportation**, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. It's a crucial factor for anyone contemplating **moving to Powell**, ensuring they can readily reach essential medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Powell residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The major thoroughfare serving the area is Clinton Highway (US-25W), a busy artery connecting Powell to Knoxville and surrounding communities. Travel times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

For residents needing specialized care or those seeking facilities closer to downtown Knoxville, Interstate 75 (I-75) provides a faster route. However, this highway is prone to heavy traffic, especially during morning and evening commutes. The time to reach hospitals like the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) or Parkwest Medical Center via I-75 can vary considerably, impacting the overall score.

Local roads like Emory Road and Callahan Drive offer alternative routes, but they often involve navigating residential areas and traffic lights, potentially adding to travel times. The condition of these roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also impact travel comfort and safety, particularly for individuals with mobility issues.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides public transit within the Knoxville metropolitan area, but its service to Powell is limited. Route 11, the Powell route, offers the most direct access to the area, connecting to downtown Knoxville. However, the frequency of service is relatively low, especially during evenings and weekends.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. KAT strives to provide accessible services on all routes, but the limited frequency and potential for long wait times can still pose challenges. The route's ability to connect to major healthcare facilities is also a key factor in its utility.

For those relying on public transit, planning is essential. The KAT website and mobile app provide real-time information on bus locations and estimated arrival times. However, the inherent limitations of public transit, such as longer travel times and potential delays, negatively affect the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible **transportation** option. Their availability in Powell is generally good, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services, including companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers, offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and ambulance services. While these options provide crucial assistance, they can be costly and require prior arrangements.

The reliability and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial. Residents should research the availability of these services in advance and understand the associated costs.

**Healthcare Access: Facility Analysis:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a major factor in the health score. Powell residents have access to a range of healthcare options, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. However, the concentration of facilities is greater in Knoxville, necessitating travel.

The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) is a major regional hospital offering comprehensive services. Parkwest Medical Center, located in West Knoxville, provides another major healthcare option. Covenant Health, a large health system, operates several facilities in the area, including urgent care centers and outpatient clinics.

The availability of urgent care centers in Powell itself is a positive factor. These centers provide immediate care for minor illnesses and injuries, reducing the need for travel to emergency rooms.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Powell, TN (37849) is moderately positive, but with areas for improvement. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor, making drive times a critical consideration. Traffic congestion on major roadways, particularly during peak hours, can negatively impact accessibility.

The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable alternatives, their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

The proximity of healthcare facilities in Knoxville provides access to comprehensive medical care, but travel times can be a deterrent. The presence of urgent care centers in Powell is a positive factor, providing convenient access to immediate care.

**Recommendations and Considerations for those Moving to Powell:**

Prospective residents considering **moving to Powell** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and **transportation** preferences. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the KAT route options and the availability of accessible services.

Those who prefer to drive should factor in potential traffic congestion when planning appointments. Researching the locations of healthcare facilities and understanding travel times is essential.

Assessing the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also critical, especially for those who may require these options.

Overall, while Powell offers a desirable quality of life, prospective residents must carefully consider the complexities of **healthcare access** and **transportation** to ensure their healthcare needs can be met effectively. The "Overall Health Score" reflects a community with good access to healthcare, but with areas where planning and preparation are essential to optimize the experience.