37307, Benton, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 37307, Benton, Tennessee is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.51 percent of residents in 37307 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tennova Health Care-Cleveland with a distance of 13.20 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 37307

The quaint town of Benton, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of Polk County, presents a unique landscape for its residents. For those considering a move to this serene locale, particularly those with health concerns like prostate cancer, understanding the intricacies of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape in ZIP code 37307, focusing on how easily one can reach medical facilities specializing in prostate cancer care. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture of the healthcare accessibility for potential new residents.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” isn't a formal metric, but rather a composite assessment of the ease with which individuals can access prostate cancer-related healthcare within and around Benton. This score considers the time and effort required to reach specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities. It acknowledges the importance of timely access to care in the effective management of this disease.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Benton's strategic location, primarily accessible via U.S. Highway 64 and State Route 30, provides a solid foundation for travel. The drive to Chattanooga, a regional hub for advanced medical care, is approximately 60 to 75 miles, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions. The journey typically involves taking Highway 64 East, a major thoroughfare, which then connects to I-75 North.

The I-75 corridor is a crucial artery for healthcare access. This interstate highway offers relatively smooth travel, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times. The drive to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) Medical Center, a potential destination for specialized prostate cancer treatment, would take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, the route via State Route 30 offers a more scenic, though potentially slower, journey. This route provides access to Cleveland, Tennessee, a city with local healthcare options. The drive to Cleveland, approximately 25 miles, would take around 30 to 45 minutes. While Cleveland might offer some initial diagnostic or treatment options, more complex cases often necessitate travel to Chattanooga.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Benton are limited. Polk County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of widespread public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Individuals relying on public transportation would face considerable difficulty in accessing regular appointments, treatments, or specialized care outside of the immediate vicinity.

The nearest public transit options are in Chattanooga. The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of bus routes throughout the city. However, the distance from Benton to Chattanooga, coupled with the lack of direct routes, makes relying on CARTA for healthcare access impractical. ADA-accessible buses are available on CARTA routes, but the multi-leg journey and extended travel times would likely prove burdensome for many patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Chattanooga area, offering a potential solution for those unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in Benton itself may be limited, and the cost of a ride to Chattanooga could be substantial. Patients would need to factor in the expense and potential wait times when planning their healthcare transportation.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be arranged for appointments, treatments, and other medical needs. While more expensive than ride-sharing, they offer door-to-door service and may be equipped to handle patients with mobility limitations or specific medical requirements. However, it's essential to confirm insurance coverage for these services.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Consideration**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" in 37307 reflects a complex picture. While Benton offers a peaceful lifestyle and a welcoming community, healthcare access, particularly for specialized care, relies heavily on personal vehicles. The distance to Chattanooga, the nearest major medical hub, poses a significant challenge for those without reliable transportation.

The absence of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, must carefully consider these factors.

**Moving to Benton: Planning for Healthcare Needs**

For individuals considering moving to Benton, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. Researching the availability of specialists, diagnostic facilities, and treatment options in Chattanooga is essential. Understanding the costs and logistics of transportation is equally important.

Exploring the availability of medical transport services and the potential for utilizing ride-sharing platforms should be a part of the pre-move planning process. Discussing transportation needs with a primary care physician or a healthcare navigator can provide valuable insights and recommendations.

Finally, consider the importance of building a support network. Having friends, family, or community members who can assist with transportation can significantly improve healthcare access and overall quality of life. The "Prostate Cancer Score" in 37307 is not a simple number; it's a multifaceted assessment that requires careful consideration and proactive planning.