The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39039, Benton, Mississippi is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
58.01 percent of residents in 39039 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Yazoo with a distance of 9.44 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 39039, Benton, Mississippi
Breast Cancer Score | 10 |
---|---|
People Score | 47 |
Provider Score | 13 |
Hospital Score | 23 |
Travel Score | 35 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 39039 | Benton | Mississippi |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 7.42 | 7.42 | 19.38 |
2 Cars | 45.89 | 45.89 | 39.26 |
3 or More Cars | 46.70 | 46.70 | 39.21 |
Vehicular Access in 39039, Benton, Mississippi
The crimson sun bled across the Mississippi horizon, casting long shadows over Benton, Mississippi, ZIP Code 39039. For anyone considering a move to this quiet corner of the world, or for current residents navigating the complexities of life, especially when facing a health crisis like breast cancer, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This assessment, a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for 39039, examines the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing potentially life-saving care.
The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ isn't a numerical grade but a narrative exploration. It highlights the challenges and opportunities for women in Benton seeking diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably is a crucial factor in breast cancer outcomes. Delays in care, exacerbated by transportation hurdles, can significantly impact survival rates and quality of life.
The primary challenge in 39039, as with many rural areas, is the reliance on personal vehicles. The vast majority of residents depend on their cars to navigate the region. This creates a significant barrier for those without a vehicle, the elderly, or individuals who are physically unable to drive.
The journey to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers involves navigating the roads. From Benton, the most direct route to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, a major healthcare hub, is via Highway 16 West. This route, a two-lane highway for much of its length, can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes in ideal traffic conditions. However, traffic congestion, particularly around the Jackson metro area, can easily extend this commute.
Another option, especially if heading towards the east, is to take Highway 16 East, connecting to Interstate 55 South. This route also leads to Jackson but offers potentially faster travel times, especially during peak hours. The I-55 corridor, while generally smoother, is still susceptible to traffic delays and accidents.
For those seeking care in Meridian, Mississippi, the journey involves traveling east on Highway 16 and then connecting to I-20 East. This trip, covering a greater distance, can take up to two hours or more, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Public transportation options are limited in 39039. There is no established public bus system that serves the area. The absence of public transit leaves residents with few alternatives to driving, placing a significant burden on those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This lack of public transportation is a major factor impacting healthcare access.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson metro area, but their presence in Benton is inconsistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore unreliable.
Medical transportation services offer a potential solution for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport, including transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies.
The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for 39039 is therefore significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for women seeking timely and convenient access to breast cancer care.
The absence of readily available public transit disproportionately affects those with lower incomes, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. These vulnerable populations are often the most reliant on accessible and affordable transportation. The lack of options can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced access to vital treatments.
For those considering moving to Benton, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the potential challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for specialized services like breast cancer treatment. The distance to major medical centers, the lack of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services must be carefully considered.
The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for 39039 highlights the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access. This could include exploring the feasibility of establishing a local shuttle service, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation, or expanding the availability of medical transportation services.
Another consideration for Benton residents is the potential for telehealth services. Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy. However, reliable internet access is essential for telehealth to be effective.
The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ also underscores the importance of community support. Local organizations can play a vital role in assisting women with breast cancer. Support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs can help alleviate the burdens associated with diagnosis, treatment, and transportation.
The journey to healthcare in 39039 is not merely a physical one; it's a complex interplay of factors that can significantly impact a woman's health outcomes. The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ serves as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that exist in this community. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, involving improvements in transportation infrastructure, expansion of healthcare services, and strengthening community support networks.
For those considering a move to Benton, it is crucial to research the available healthcare resources and the transportation options that will be available to them. This includes understanding the drive times to the nearest medical facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for medical transportation.
The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ is a call to action. It emphasizes the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in 39039 and to ensure that all women have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The future of healthcare access in Benton depends on proactive measures, innovative solutions, and a collective commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the community.
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