37917, Knoxville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37917, Knoxville, Tennessee is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.71 percent of residents in 37917 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37917

Understanding the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 37917 can access healthcare is crucial for assessing their overall health and well-being. This analysis considers the multifaceted nature of transportation, examining drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. For those considering moving to Knoxville, this information provides invaluable insight into a critical aspect of daily life.

The geographical layout of 37917, nestled within Knoxville, significantly influences healthcare access. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 40 (I-40) and Interstate 75 (I-75) serve as vital arteries, connecting residents to various medical facilities. However, the presence of these highways does not automatically guarantee effortless access. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can substantially increase drive times, impacting the timeliness of medical appointments and potentially delaying critical care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from 37917 vary depending on the specific destination and the time of day. For instance, accessing the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating I-40 or local roads like Kingston Pike. During off-peak hours, the drive might take 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily extend to 25-30 minutes or longer, adding significant stress and potentially jeopardizing timely care.

Other prominent healthcare providers, such as Parkwest Medical Center and several urgent care clinics, are also accessible via I-40 and local roads. The proximity of these facilities to 37917 offers residents multiple choices. However, the same traffic considerations apply, potentially affecting the ease and speed of reaching these crucial resources. The condition of local roads, including Cumberland Avenue and Chapman Highway, also plays a role, with potholes and poor road maintenance adding to commute times and vehicle wear and tear.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides bus routes that serve 37917. Several routes, including the 11, 12, and 22, offer direct or connecting service to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage area can be a limiting factor.

The accessibility of KAT buses is another critical consideration. KAT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, the availability of elevators and ramps, along with the potential for crowded buses, can still pose challenges for some riders. Furthermore, the overall travel time via public transit is often significantly longer than driving, potentially deterring some individuals from using this option.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present another transportation avenue. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient way to reach healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further exacerbate this issue.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and Senior Citizens Home Assistance Services offer non-emergency medical transport. These services can be a valuable resource, but their availability and cost must be considered.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 37917 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of major highways provides relatively quick access for those with personal vehicles, traffic congestion and the condition of local roads can significantly impede travel times. Public transportation offers an alternative, but route frequency, travel time, and accessibility concerns limit its effectiveness. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation provide additional options, but cost and availability can be obstacles.

For individuals moving to Knoxville, the accessibility of healthcare in 37917 presents a mixed picture. While the area benefits from a concentration of medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning. Exploring public transportation options and understanding the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is essential for ensuring reliable access to healthcare.

The availability of healthcare access is a critical component of overall health and well-being. Residents of 37917 should proactively assess their transportation needs and explore the available options. This includes understanding the nuances of drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation.

Ultimately, the overall health score for healthcare access in 37917 reflects the need for a multifaceted approach. Improving public transportation, addressing traffic congestion, and ensuring the affordability of alternative transportation options are crucial steps toward enhancing healthcare access for all residents. This is especially true for those considering moving to Knoxville, as understanding these complexities is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.