37801, Maryville, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 37801, Maryville, Tennessee is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.84 percent of residents in 37801 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.01 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 37801**

The decision to relocate, especially to a new community like Maryville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37801), often involves a complex web of considerations. For men, a critical factor should be healthcare access, particularly regarding prostate cancer screening and treatment. This write-up analyzes the transportation options available within and from 37801, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to gauge the ease of accessing necessary medical services. This score will consider drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options, providing a comprehensive overview for those contemplating moving to Maryville.

Maryville, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers. However, the specifics of transportation are crucial when evaluating healthcare accessibility. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers the time and effort required to reach key medical facilities specializing in prostate health. The score is not a definitive metric, but rather a comparative tool, highlighting the challenges and advantages of navigating the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times: The Road to Healthcare**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Blount County, where Maryville is located. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US-129, US-411, and TN-33. These roads connect Maryville to hospitals, specialist clinics, and diagnostic centers.

From central Maryville, accessing the Blount Memorial Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area, is typically a short drive. The hospital is conveniently located near the downtown area. Travel time is usually under 10 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and afternoons, traffic congestion on US-129 can extend the commute.

For specialized care, patients may need to travel to Knoxville, a larger city approximately 20 miles north of Maryville. The most direct route to Knoxville involves taking US-129 North, which merges onto I-140 West. This route provides access to the University of Tennessee Medical Center and other specialist facilities. The drive typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

US-411 offers an alternative route, though it is generally slower due to a greater number of traffic signals and a less direct path. TN-33, running north-south, provides access to various medical offices and clinics within Maryville and the surrounding areas.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" will consider the drive times to these key facilities, factoring in both typical and peak-hour travel durations. This analysis will provide a realistic assessment of how quickly and easily patients can reach essential medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Blount County is limited. The primary provider is the Blount County Transit (BCT). However, BCT's routes are primarily focused on local travel within Maryville and Alcoa, with limited service to Knoxville.

BCT operates several fixed routes, but these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Passengers may need to transfer routes, increasing travel time. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of public transit for accessing specialized prostate cancer care in Knoxville is even more restricted. The BCT does not offer direct routes to Knoxville's major medical centers. This necessitates a combination of bus routes and potential transfers, significantly extending travel times.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" will reflect the limitations of public transit, acknowledging its restricted coverage and potential impact on healthcare access. The score will highlight the need for alternative transportation options for those relying on public transit.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Maryville and Knoxville. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive.

Ride-sharing costs can vary depending on demand and distance. However, these services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for transfers or long walks. The availability of ride-sharing services enhances healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations.

Medical transportation services are also available, catering specifically to patients needing assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" will incorporate the availability and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. These options can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for those who are unable to drive or utilize public transit.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" and Moving to Maryville**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 37801 will be a composite measure, considering drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport options. It will assess the ease of accessing key healthcare facilities for prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better healthcare access. The score will provide a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Maryville, particularly those with a family history of prostate cancer or those who are at an age where regular screenings are recommended.

The analysis will emphasize the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when making relocation decisions. The score will highlight the need for careful planning and assessment of transportation options to ensure consistent and timely access to healthcare.

**Conclusion**

Relocating to a new community requires careful consideration of many factors, including healthcare access. In Maryville (37801), while driving is the most common mode of transportation, the limitations of public transit and the availability of ride-sharing services must be weighed. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will offer a practical assessment of healthcare access, helping individuals make informed decisions about moving to Maryville and ensuring their ability to receive timely and effective prostate cancer care. The score will underscore the importance of considering transportation infrastructure as a key element in overall healthcare access.