37919, Knoxville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37919, Knoxville, Tennessee is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.24 percent of residents in 37919 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Health System, Inc with a distance of 3.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37919

For individuals contemplating a move to Knoxville, Tennessee, and specifically the 37919 ZIP code, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the crucial element of transportation. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of how residents can reach vital healthcare facilities.

ZIP code 37919, encompassing areas like Fountain City and parts of North Knoxville, presents a mixed bag regarding healthcare access. While it boasts proximity to several medical providers, the efficiency of reaching these facilities hinges heavily on transportation. The "Overall Health Score" for this area is therefore significantly impacted by the ease or difficulty of commuting to healthcare.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular movement within and around 37919 are crucial. Commuting to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the complexities of **I-640**, **I-75**, and **U.S. Route 441 (Broadway)**. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend drive times, impacting the "Overall Health Score."

For instance, reaching the University of Tennessee Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, from the northern reaches of 37919 might involve a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic on I-75. Similarly, accessing Parkwest Medical Center, located west of 37919, requires navigating I-640 and can take a similar amount of time. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities closer to the heart of 37919, along Broadway or Central Avenue Pike, offer quicker access, but the availability of specialized care might necessitate longer drives.

The condition of roads and the presence of traffic signals also play a role. Broadway, a major thoroughfare, can experience significant delays during rush hour. Considering these factors, the "Overall Health Score" is moderately affected by drive times, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning for medical appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Routes:**

The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system provides public transportation options for residents of 37919. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a viable alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles or who wish to avoid traffic.

Key routes include **Route 11 (Broadway)**, which runs along Broadway, providing access to various healthcare facilities and connecting to other routes. **Route 22 (Emory Place)** and **Route 31 (Central)** also offer connections to healthcare providers.

However, the "Overall Health Score" is moderately impacted by the limitations of public transit. While KAT strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant buses, the frequency of routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a barrier. Furthermore, the travel time via public transit is often considerably longer than driving, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Knoxville, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. This contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score." Ride-sharing provides on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering convenience and flexibility. However, the cost of these services can be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like First Transit and other private providers offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. This significantly enhances the "Overall Health Score" for those requiring such assistance. These services, while crucial, often require prior scheduling and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit.

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

The "Overall Health Score" for 37919, concerning healthcare access, is a nuanced assessment. It is not a simple "good" or "bad" rating. The score is influenced by the interplay of factors: drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

While the area benefits from proximity to healthcare providers, the efficiency of reaching them is crucial. Traffic congestion, limited public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing can pose challenges. However, the availability of ride-sharing and specialized medical transport services mitigates some of these concerns.

**Moving to Knoxville: A Transportation Perspective:**

For those considering moving to Knoxville and specifically 37919, understanding these transportation dynamics is vital. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. Individuals who rely on public transit should research route schedules and accessibility features. Those with mobility limitations should explore medical transport options.

The "Overall Health Score" underscores the importance of proactive planning. Researching healthcare providers, assessing commute times during peak hours, and familiarizing oneself with public transit options are essential steps. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds flexibility, but the associated costs must be considered.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" in 37919, concerning healthcare access, is moderately positive. While challenges exist, particularly regarding drive times and public transit limitations, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides viable alternatives. By understanding these transportation dynamics, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure their healthcare needs are met effectively. The key to a high score lies in proactive planning and leveraging the available transportation resources.