37931, Knoxville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 37931, Knoxville, Tennessee is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.98 percent of residents in 37931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkwest Medical Center with a distance of 3.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37931

Considering a move to Knoxville, Tennessee, and specifically the 37931 ZIP code? Understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount. This report offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing medical services. We delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions to provide a comprehensive picture.

The 37931 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Karns and Hardin Valley, presents a unique challenge in healthcare access. While offering a suburban feel, its reliance on personal vehicles and the relative scarcity of public transit necessitates careful consideration. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching essential medical appointments.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation in 37931 is the personal vehicle. Navigating the roads to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in our score. Residents will likely utilize major thoroughfares such as **I-140 (Pellissippi Parkway)**, **Oak Ridge Highway**, and **Northshore Drive**. Congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially adding stress and delaying crucial medical attention.

For those seeking primary care physicians, several options exist. Drive times to clinics in the Farragut area, just west of 37931, can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Reaching facilities closer to downtown Knoxville, such as those near **University of Tennessee Medical Center**, will likely involve a 25- to 40-minute commute, especially during rush hour.

Specialty care access, such as cardiology or oncology, often requires travel to specific medical centers. **Parkwest Medical Center**, located off **Middlebrook Pike**, is a significant healthcare provider. Drive times from 37931 to Parkwest can vary from 15 to 30 minutes. **East Tennessee Children's Hospital**, located downtown, will require a similar commute time as the University of Tennessee Medical Center.

The "Overall Health Score" considers the variability in drive times. Factors like traffic accidents, road closures, and inclement weather can significantly impact access, potentially leading to missed appointments and delayed care. The score will reflect the need for careful planning and the potential for unpredictable delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) provides public transportation services, but its coverage in 37931 is limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Several KAT routes serve the general area, but their frequency and reach are a concern. **Route 11 (Kingston Pike)**, which runs along the northern border of 37931, is a vital link. However, accessing healthcare facilities from this route may require transfers, extending travel times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. KAT strives to provide accessible buses, but the physical limitations of the routes and the potential for lengthy travel times pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. The "Overall Health Score" must acknowledge the limitations of public transit in this area.

The lack of direct routes and the potential for extended travel times via public transit will negatively affect the "Overall Health Score." The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor in assessing healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the cost and availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transport services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other private companies, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services offer a valuable option for individuals requiring assistance, but they can be expensive and may require prior arrangements.

The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the role of ride-sharing and medical transport. While these options provide alternative transportation, their cost and availability will influence the overall assessment.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Knoxville: A Holistic View**

The "Overall Health Score" considers the broader context of healthcare access in 37931. The availability of healthcare providers, the proximity of pharmacies, and the overall healthcare infrastructure influence the score.

Moving to Knoxville involves a holistic assessment of your needs. Consider the location of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options, and the overall cost of healthcare.

The "Overall Health Score" will be a composite score, reflecting the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the overall healthcare environment.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 37931 reflects a mixed picture. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges.

The score will be negatively impacted by the potential for lengthy drive times, especially during peak hours. The limited coverage and frequency of KAT routes also contribute to a lower score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative options, but their cost and availability will influence the overall assessment.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a definitive judgment but a starting point. It is a guide to help you understand the transportation challenges. Researching specific healthcare needs, exploring transportation options, and planning for potential delays are essential for maximizing healthcare access in 37931.