37302, Apison, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 37302, Apison, Tennessee is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.60 percent of residents in 37302 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 15.13 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37302**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, is a critical consideration for residents of Apison, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37302). This assessment delves into the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to determine the ease of accessing specialized medical care. This is particularly relevant for those contemplating moving to Apison, as proximity to quality healthcare significantly impacts quality of life.

Apison, nestled in Hamilton County, offers a tranquil suburban setting. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful evaluation of transportation options for medical appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The Prostate Cancer Score reflects the accessibility of healthcare facilities specializing in prostate cancer treatment, factoring in the practicalities of getting there.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many Apison residents. The major thoroughfares impacting healthcare access include the I-75, a vital north-south artery, and the scenic but often congested US-64. Local roads like Apison Pike and Ooltewah-Ringgold Road provide access to nearby towns and medical centers.

A drive to the major healthcare hubs in Chattanooga, the closest major city, will be the most common route. Driving to CHI Memorial Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, typically takes around 25-35 minutes via I-75 South. The drive is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times.

Another key destination is Erlanger Health System, particularly the Erlanger East Hospital. The drive to Erlanger East, also accessed via I-75 South, is similar in duration, ranging from 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Both CHI Memorial and Erlanger offer comprehensive cancer care, including specialized prostate cancer treatment.

For residents seeking more specialized care, the drive to Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, a center of excellence for cancer treatment, becomes a factor. This drive is significantly longer, approximately 2 hours via I-24 West, making it a less convenient option for routine appointments but potentially necessary for advanced treatment protocols.

Public transportation options in Apison are limited. The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (CARTA) provides bus service throughout Hamilton County. However, CARTA’s routes within Apison are sparse, and direct routes to major hospitals are not readily available. This necessitates a transfer or multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time.

CARTA bus routes servicing the area include Route 10 (East Brainerd) and Route 28 (Ooltewah), which can provide access to transfer points. However, these routes have limited frequency, and service may not be available during evenings or weekends, making them unreliable for urgent medical needs. ADA-accessible buses are available on all routes, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. These services are generally available in Apison, but availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours. Ride-sharing costs can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The ease of securing a ride to a medical appointment is also a consideration for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available in the Chattanooga area. Companies like Senior Helpers and FirstLight Home Care provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering door-to-door service. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Apison, 37302, is affected by the reliance on personal vehicles for convenient access to healthcare. While major hospitals are within reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transit and the potential for traffic delays impact accessibility. The limited availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transportation services further influence the score.

For those considering moving to Apison, the proximity to healthcare facilities, while generally good, requires careful planning. Factor in the potential for traffic delays and the limitations of public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options adds to the overall accessibility equation.

Ultimately, the Prostate Cancer Score reflects the reality of healthcare access in Apison. While the area offers access to quality medical care, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges. This underscores the importance of considering transportation logistics when assessing the suitability of Apison for individuals requiring regular medical care, especially those managing a condition like prostate cancer.