37853, Rockford, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 37853, Rockford, Tennessee is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.35 percent of residents in 37853 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Blount Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.68 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rockford, TN (ZIP Code 37853)

The decision to relocate, especially when facing a health concern like prostate cancer, demands a thorough understanding of local resources. For those considering a move to Rockford, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37853), this assessment explores healthcare access, specifically focusing on prostate cancer treatment options, and how transportation infrastructure impacts that access. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a subjective measure reflecting the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care.

**Understanding the Score:**

The Prostate Cancer Score isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment based on factors like proximity to treatment centers, transportation availability, and overall convenience. A higher score suggests easier access to care, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in Rockford.

**The Rockford Landscape:**

Rockford, nestled in Blount County, offers a blend of suburban and rural living. While its charm is undeniable, its proximity to Knoxville is crucial for healthcare access. The area's transportation network, primarily reliant on personal vehicles, is a key determinant of the Prostate Cancer Score.

**Highway and Road Networks: The Arteries of Access:**

The primary routes for accessing healthcare in Rockford are Interstate 140 (I-140), connecting to Knoxville, and US Highway 411. These highways are the lifeblood of transportation, providing the most direct routes to hospitals and specialist clinics.

Driving times are paramount. From Rockford, a drive to the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC), a major healthcare provider in Knoxville, typically takes 20-30 minutes via I-140. This drive, however, is subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours. Delays can significantly impact the Prostate Cancer Score, especially for patients requiring regular treatments or facing emergencies.

Similarly, accessing Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville, a closer option, is generally a 15-20 minute drive, primarily via US-411. While closer, the hospital may not offer the same breadth of specialized services as UTMC. Choosing the right facility depends on individual needs and the stage of prostate cancer.

The condition of these roads is generally good, but construction projects can cause delays. The Prostate Cancer Score is adjusted to reflect the potential for these disruptions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Rockford is limited. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system serves the greater Knoxville area, but its reach into Rockford is minimal. Bus routes are infrequent, and the coverage is not comprehensive.

The primary KAT route serving the area is Route 11, which connects to downtown Knoxville. However, this route may not directly serve hospitals or clinics. Furthermore, ADA accessibility is available on KAT buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service.

For prostate cancer patients, relying solely on public transit can be challenging. The infrequent schedules, potential for long travel times, and the need for transfers could significantly impact the Prostate Cancer Score. The lack of readily available public transit lowers the score considerably.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Rockford. They offer a more convenient alternative to public transit, especially for those unable to drive. However, the cost of frequent rides can be a financial burden, and availability might be limited during off-peak hours or in rural areas.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, are another option. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and may require prior scheduling.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services improves the Prostate Cancer Score, but their cost and potential limitations need to be considered.

**Healthcare Access and the Prostate Cancer Score:**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Rockford, TN (37853) is moderately positive. The proximity to Knoxville and Maryville, with their established healthcare facilities, is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges.

The score is improved by the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport. The potential for traffic delays and the cost of transportation services are factors that can negatively impact the score.

**Specific Healthcare Providers:**

* **University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC):** Offers comprehensive cancer care, including advanced prostate cancer treatments.
* **Blount Memorial Hospital:** Provides general healthcare services and may offer some cancer care options.
* **Knoxville Comprehensive Cancer Center:** A private practice providing cancer care.

**Moving to Rockford: Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients:**

For individuals with prostate cancer considering a move to Rockford, careful planning is essential.

* **Assess Treatment Needs:** Determine the type and frequency of required treatments.
* **Evaluate Transportation Options:** Consider the availability of personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify the closest and most appropriate healthcare facilities.
* **Factor in Costs:** Estimate the transportation costs associated with accessing healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

Rockford, TN (37853) offers a reasonable level of healthcare access for prostate cancer patients. The proximity to Knoxville and Maryville, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing services, provides a degree of convenience. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options require careful consideration. A thorough assessment of individual needs and circumstances is crucial before making a move. The Prostate Cancer Score, while subjective, serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the feasibility of relocating to Rockford and ensuring access to quality healthcare.