38015, Burlison, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 38015, Burlison, Tennessee is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.82 percent of residents in 38015 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital Tipton with a distance of 7.91 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burlison, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38015)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical diagnosis like prostate cancer, can be fraught with anxiety. Adding the complexities of transportation to the equation can significantly impact a patient's experience, affecting their ability to receive timely treatment and maintain their quality of life. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape in Burlison, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38015), focusing on access to prostate cancer care, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" based on available options. It’s a vital consideration for anyone considering moving to Burlison.

Burlison, a small community nestled in the heart of West Tennessee, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. While the town itself may not boast extensive medical facilities, the surrounding areas offer a range of options. The ability to navigate the transportation infrastructure becomes paramount, influencing a patient’s ability to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the realities of healthcare access for prostate cancer patients in this specific ZIP code.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Burlison is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town is situated along **Highway 51**, a major north-south artery. Traveling south on **Highway 51** provides access to the larger medical facilities in Memphis, approximately a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic. This drive time, while manageable, can become a burden for patients undergoing frequent treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Furthermore, the condition of **Highway 51** and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours must be considered.

Heading north on **Highway 51** leads towards Dyersburg, offering a shorter drive of around 30-45 minutes. Dyersburg Regional Medical Center provides some specialized care, but the scope of prostate cancer treatment may be limited compared to Memphis facilities. Local roads like **Burlison Road** and **Hwy 14** provide alternative routes, but they generally add to the travel time and may be less well-maintained. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Public transportation options are limited in Burlison. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) does not extend its services to this rural area. Therefore, individuals relying on public transit would likely need to arrange for a ride to a MATA hub or another point of connection. This lack of public transportation severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, especially the elderly or those with mobility issues. The absence of readily available public transit significantly detracts from the "Prostate Cancer Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Memphis metropolitan area. However, their availability in Burlison is less predictable. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening, may prove challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients, particularly those facing ongoing medical expenses. The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services are crucial considerations in the overall healthcare access assessment.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Memphis area. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments but do not require an ambulance. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedRide offer door-to-door service, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The availability and cost of these services vary, and patients should research options and confirm insurance coverage before relying on them.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Burlison, Tennessee, is influenced by the following factors: the primary reliance on personal vehicles, the relatively long drive times to major medical centers in Memphis, the limited public transportation options, the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transport. The absence of robust public transit and the potential for travel-related stress significantly impact the overall score.

The challenges in transportation can exacerbate the emotional and physical toll of a prostate cancer diagnosis. Patients may experience increased stress related to travel logistics, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in treatment. The financial burden of transportation costs can add to the existing financial strain associated with medical care. The overall impact on quality of life is a critical consideration.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Burlison, Tennessee, is therefore moderate. While access to healthcare is available, it is heavily reliant on personal transportation, and the journey to treatment centers in Memphis can be time-consuming. The lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further diminish the score.

For individuals considering moving to Burlison, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is crucial. Patients should evaluate their ability to drive, the potential for relying on family or friends for transportation, and the availability and affordability of medical transport services. Exploring options for telemedicine or telehealth appointments can also help mitigate the challenges of long-distance travel.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not just a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the lived experience of patients navigating the healthcare system. It highlights the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their location, have equitable access to the care they need. This score serves as a reminder of the vital link between transportation and healthcare access, particularly for those facing the challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis.