37665, Kingsport, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 37665, Kingsport, Tennessee is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.19 percent of residents in 37665 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center with a distance of 2.15 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kingsport, TN (ZIP Code 37665)

Considering a move to Kingsport, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37665)? Perhaps you’re already a resident, and prostate cancer screening or treatment is on your mind. Understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** points is crucial. This "Prostate Cancer Score" assesses the challenges and advantages of navigating the local landscape, providing a realistic picture of your journey. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** solutions, helping you make informed decisions about your health and your move.

Kingsport, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, offers a blend of small-town charm and access to regional medical facilities. The primary healthcare provider in the area is Ballad Health, which operates several hospitals and clinics. The score considers the proximity of these facilities, focusing on those offering urology and oncology services relevant to prostate cancer.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, driving is the preferred mode of **transportation**. In ZIP Code 37665, the primary roadways influencing **healthcare access** are Interstate 26 (I-26), US Route 11W, and State Route 126. The flow of traffic, particularly during peak hours, is a significant factor.

From the heart of 37665, a drive to Holston Valley Medical Center, a Ballad Health facility, typically takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey often involves navigating State Route 126 and potentially merging onto I-26. The drive to Bristol Regional Medical Center, another Ballad Health facility, is slightly longer, around 25-35 minutes, primarily via I-26 South.

The drive to the Kingsport Medical Arts Building, where many specialists, including urologists and oncologists, have offices, usually takes 10-15 minutes. This trip typically involves navigating US Route 11W and local roads. These drive times are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific origin point within the ZIP code.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of the City**

Kingsport's public transit system, operated by the Kingsport Area Transit Service (KATS), provides an alternative to driving. KATS operates several fixed routes, but their coverage within ZIP Code 37665, and particularly to **healthcare access** points, is limited.

Route 1 serves some areas of the ZIP code, but its frequency and directness to medical facilities are not ideal. The route may require transfers to reach Holston Valley Medical Center or the Kingsport Medical Arts Building. The KATS system is ADA-compliant, offering accessible vehicles and services for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route network and potential for longer travel times should be considered.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: The On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Kingsport. They offer on-demand **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services are also available, catering specifically to patients needing assistance. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several companies, such as First Call Medical Transportation and MedStar Ambulance Service, operate in the Kingsport area. These services are often covered by insurance, but require prior arrangements.

**Healthcare Access: A Deeper Dive**

Beyond the **transportation** options, it's essential to consider the specific **healthcare access** for prostate cancer care. Ballad Health's Holston Valley Medical Center and Bristol Regional Medical Center offer comprehensive urology and oncology services. Both facilities have experienced medical professionals and advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.

The Kingsport Medical Arts Building houses numerous specialists, including urologists and oncologists, offering convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. Consider the availability of specialists, appointment scheduling, and the overall patient experience when evaluating **healthcare access**.

**Moving to Kingsport: A Holistic Perspective**

When **moving to Kingsport**, or if you're a current resident, a proactive approach to **healthcare access** is paramount. Before making any decisions, research the specific prostate cancer specialists in the area, their affiliations, and their patient reviews. Inquire about the availability of appointments, the types of treatments offered, and the insurance coverage accepted.

Factor in the cost of **transportation** to and from appointments. If driving, consider the cost of gas, parking, and potential traffic delays. If using public transit or ride-sharing, factor in the travel time and cost. If you require medical **transportation**, investigate the available services and their associated costs.

**Prostate Cancer Score: A Summary**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 37665 is moderate. While the drive times to medical facilities are generally reasonable, the limited public transit options and the reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical **transportation** services provides a valuable alternative for those who need it.

The quality of **healthcare access**, specifically the availability of urologists and oncologists, is generally good, with Ballad Health facilities and the Kingsport Medical Arts Building offering comprehensive care.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess your mobility:** If you have limited mobility, explore medical **transportation** options.
* **Plan your routes:** Familiarize yourself with the roadways and potential traffic patterns.
* **Research specialists:** Identify the urologists and oncologists in the area and their affiliations.
* **Consider insurance coverage:** Ensure your insurance plan covers the medical services and **transportation** options you may need.
* **Communicate with your healthcare provider:** Discuss your **transportation** needs and explore any support services offered by the medical facilities.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make informed decisions about your health and your move to Kingsport, ensuring you have the necessary **healthcare access** for prostate cancer screening and treatment.