37385, Tellico Plains, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 37385, Tellico Plains, Tennessee is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.18 percent of residents in 37385 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Starr Regional Medical Center Athens with a distance of 18.79 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tellico Plains (ZIP Code 37385)

The decision to relocate, especially when factoring in healthcare needs, is a complex one. For individuals considering a move to Tellico Plains, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37385), understanding the landscape of healthcare access, specifically for prostate cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This analysis, a "Prostate Cancer Score," delves into the transportation infrastructure and healthcare facilities available, providing a comprehensive overview to aid in informed decision-making.

Tellico Plains, nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access. Its rural setting means that while the natural beauty is abundant, proximity to specialized medical services can be a significant factor. This score considers the available transportation options, the distance to relevant medical facilities, and the overall ease of navigating the healthcare system.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Transportation**

The primary mode of transportation in Tellico Plains is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The network of roads dictates access to healthcare facilities. Driving times, therefore, become a crucial element in assessing healthcare access.

The primary artery connecting Tellico Plains to larger towns and cities is **Highway 68**. This road provides a direct route to Athens, Tennessee, approximately 30 miles away. The drive, typically taking around 45 minutes to an hour, is the most direct route for accessing the major healthcare providers in the region.

Traveling north on **Highway 68** leads to Madisonville, Tennessee, a shorter drive, around 20 minutes. This route offers access to smaller clinics and healthcare providers.

Further afield, Knoxville, a major regional hub for medical specialization, is about a 90-mile drive, accessible via **Highway 129** and then **I-75**. This journey, taking approximately two hours, is essential for accessing advanced cancer treatment centers and specialized urology practices.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can impact drive times. Residents should be aware of potential delays due to snow, ice, or heavy rain, especially during winter months.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Real Considerations**

Public transportation options in Tellico Plains and the surrounding areas are limited. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or prefer alternative modes of transportation.

The Tellico Plains area does not have a local public transit system. The closest public transit options are available in Athens and Madisonville, but these are limited in scope and frequency. These systems are not designed to serve the specific transportation needs of Tellico Plains residents.

The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on other transportation options. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the overall "Prostate Cancer Score," as it limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region, but their presence in Tellico Plains is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments might prove challenging.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like FirstMed Transport and Care Ride provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments.

However, medical transport services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation methods. Their availability also might be limited, especially for short-notice appointments.

**Healthcare Access and Facilities: The Destination**

The availability of healthcare facilities, specifically those offering prostate cancer screening and treatment, is a critical factor. Tellico Plains itself has limited healthcare facilities.

The primary healthcare providers are located in nearby towns, particularly Athens and Madisonville. Athens, with its hospital and specialized clinics, offers a broader range of medical services.

**Athens Regional Medical Center**, located in Athens, is the closest hospital. This facility offers general medical services, including primary care physicians who can provide initial prostate cancer screenings and referrals.

Specialized urology practices, essential for diagnosis and treatment, are primarily located in Athens and Knoxville. These practices offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as prostate biopsies and MRI scans, and treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

The distance to these specialized facilities and the reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services underscore the importance of careful planning for healthcare needs when considering a move to Tellico Plains.

**ADA Accessibility: Ensuring Inclusive Transportation**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation and healthcare facilities is crucial. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and healthcare facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

However, the limited availability of public transit in Tellico Plains necessitates a reliance on private vehicles or medical transport. Individuals with disabilities should carefully evaluate the accessibility of these services and facilities.

When considering a move, prospective residents should inquire about the ADA compliance of the healthcare facilities they intend to utilize. This includes features such as accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and examination rooms.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" - A Summary**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Tellico Plains (ZIP Code 37385) reflects a landscape where **transportation** options are limited. The reliance on personal vehicles and the distances to specialized healthcare facilities present challenges.

The absence of robust public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare **access**. While medical transport services offer a solution, they often require pre-planning and can be costly.

The availability of healthcare facilities in nearby towns, such as Athens and Knoxville, is a positive factor. However, the drive times to these facilities and the potential for weather-related delays should be carefully considered.

For individuals considering a move to Tellico Plains, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential. This includes identifying healthcare providers, understanding transportation options, and developing a contingency plan for unforeseen circumstances.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a guide, highlighting the critical factors to consider when evaluating healthcare access in Tellico Plains. Careful planning and consideration of these factors will help ensure that individuals can receive the necessary screening, diagnosis, and treatment for prostate cancer.