37690, Telford, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 37690, Telford, Tennessee is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.93 percent of residents in 37690 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnson City Medical Center with a distance of 10.75 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Telford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37690)

The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis can cast a long one, and the journey to effective care often begins with a crucial question: how easy is it to get there? This assessment, a "Prostate Cancer Score," considers the transportation landscape surrounding Telford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37690), evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Telford, seeking a community with convenient healthcare access.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, offering a comprehensive picture of the transportation challenges and advantages in this specific geographic area. The goal is to empower residents and prospective newcomers to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey, ensuring that the path to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Telford, nestled in Washington County, presents a unique transportation environment. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 81 (I-81) and US Highway 11E (also known as East Main Street). I-81 provides a north-south corridor, while US-11E runs east-west, offering direct access to nearby cities and medical facilities. Drive times are a critical component of the score, factoring in peak traffic hours and the distance to the nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers.

For residents of Telford, the closest major healthcare hubs are located in Johnson City, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US-11E, and Kingsport, about a 30-40 minute drive via I-81. These estimates assume moderate traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, these times can increase significantly, potentially impacting the timeliness of appointments and the overall stress levels of patients.

Public transportation options in Telford and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Johnson City Transit System, which offers bus routes throughout the city. However, these routes may not directly serve Telford, and the frequency of service can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. Accessing healthcare facilities in Johnson City via public transit may require a combination of routes and transfers, potentially extending travel times considerably.

The Johnson City Transit System does offer some ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, it's crucial to verify specific route accessibility and schedule adherence when planning healthcare appointments. This is a critical consideration for individuals managing mobility challenges related to prostate cancer treatment or its side effects.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays or cancellations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with healthcare needs, provide another layer of support. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility. While these services can be invaluable, they typically come at a higher cost than other transportation options.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Telford considers these factors, weighting them based on their impact on healthcare access. A high score reflects convenient access to healthcare facilities, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. The score is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents in their healthcare journey.

The proximity to Johnson City, with its established medical infrastructure, is a significant advantage for Telford residents. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options can create barriers for some individuals. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional support, but at a potentially higher cost.

For individuals considering moving to Telford, the "Prostate Cancer Score" can be a valuable tool. It allows prospective residents to assess the transportation landscape and its potential impact on their healthcare access. It is crucial to factor in personal circumstances, such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and the frequency of medical appointments, when evaluating the score.

The score also highlights the importance of community initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transportation routes, promoting ride-sharing programs, or supporting medical transportation services. These efforts can significantly enhance the quality of life for residents facing prostate cancer and other health challenges.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a static measure; it is dynamic. It evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community initiatives. Regular updates and assessments are essential to ensure that the score remains relevant and reflects the current realities of healthcare access in Telford.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower individuals to navigate their healthcare journey with confidence. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape, identifying potential challenges, and making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It is a call to action, encouraging residents and the community to work together to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, supportive, and responsive to the needs of all.

The journey through prostate cancer can be daunting, but with careful planning and awareness of available resources, individuals in Telford can navigate the transportation challenges and prioritize their health. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a guide, helping them to chart a course towards effective care and a better quality of life.