38119, Memphis, Tennessee Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 38119, Memphis, Tennessee is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.61 percent of residents in 38119 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital with a distance of 1.53 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 38119**

Considering a move to Memphis, specifically ZIP code 38119? This area, encompassing parts of East Memphis, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning prostate cancer screening and treatment. Understanding the transportation options and their impact on timely care is crucial. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a subjective metric, reflecting the relative accessibility of prostate cancer-related healthcare within a given area. It considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and the presence of specialized medical transportation. The higher the score, the better the perceived access.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare**

In 38119, the primary arteries for transportation are I-240, Poplar Avenue, and Walnut Grove Road. These roadways are essential for navigating to major healthcare providers. Access to these roads is generally good, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For a routine prostate screening at a clinic on Poplar Avenue, a resident in the heart of 38119 might expect a drive time of 5-15 minutes, depending on traffic. However, a visit to a specialist at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), located downtown, could take 20-40 minutes, navigating I-240 and surface streets.

Emergency situations demand swift access. The drive to a hospital like Methodist University Hospital, also accessible via I-240, is typically 10-20 minutes. The potential for delays, particularly during rush hour or inclement weather, underscores the importance of preparedness and alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit: A Network of Routes**

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides public transportation within 38119. Several bus routes serve the area, including routes 42, 50, and 53, offering access to various healthcare facilities. These routes primarily run along major thoroughfares like Poplar Avenue and Walnut Grove Road, connecting residents to clinics, hospitals, and medical offices.

MATA buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, public transit can be less convenient than private transportation, particularly for those with mobility limitations or complex medical needs. Travel times can be significantly longer than driving, and transfers may be required, adding to the overall journey duration.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 38119, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly helpful for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Ride-share availability is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5-15 minutes. However, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and First Transit, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and may be covered by insurance, making them a viable option for those with mobility challenges or other specific needs. These services require advance booking, so planning is essential.

**Prostate Cancer Score Assessment**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for 38119 is moderately high. The area benefits from good road access, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of public transit. However, the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing can pose challenges for some residents.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for Moving to Memphis**

For individuals considering moving to Memphis and concerned about prostate cancer healthcare access, 38119 offers a reasonable level of accessibility. However, it is crucial to assess individual needs and preferences.

Those who prefer driving will find convenient access to major roadways. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with MATA routes and schedules. Individuals with mobility challenges or other specific needs should explore ride-sharing or medical transportation options.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, ZIP code 38119 offers a reasonably accessible environment for prostate cancer healthcare. The combination of road networks, public transit, and ride-sharing services provides residents with multiple transportation options. While traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit may present challenges, the overall accessibility is favorable. When moving to Memphis, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and preferences to ensure they can access the healthcare services they require. Understanding these nuances is critical to ensuring effective healthcare access.