39051, Carthage, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.30 percent of residents in 39051 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Leake with a distance of 3.39 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is multifaceted. It’s not just about medical expertise; it’s about the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. For residents of Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051), this involves a complex interplay of geography, available resources, and personal circumstances. This analysis provides a “Breast Cancer Score,” a qualitative assessment of the ease with which individuals in this area can access essential breast cancer services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It is designed to offer a clearer picture for those considering *moving to Carthage* or already residing there, and to highlight potential challenges and opportunities for improvement.

Carthage, a town steeped in Southern charm, presents a unique set of considerations for healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Jackson, the state capital, approximately 70 miles away. This distance necessitates reliance on various *transportation* methods, each with its own set of challenges and advantages. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the realities of navigating this landscape.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The primary route to Jackson from Carthage is via Highway 25 South. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, but this can fluctuate depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's personal speed. Highway 25 South is the lifeblood for those needing specialized medical care.

Another option, though less direct, involves utilizing Highway 16 East to connect with Interstate 20 West. This route, while offering a more limited amount of traffic, adds approximately 15-20 minutes to the overall travel time. The Interstate offers a more controlled driving experience, but it also necessitates navigating potentially heavy interstate traffic near Jackson.

The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, is a critical factor. Residents must consider the potential for delays, especially when time is of the essence. For those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, frequent travel can be physically and emotionally draining.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Carthage are severely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or connecting directly to Jackson. This lack of public transit significantly impacts *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge. For individuals with limited mobility, disabilities, or financial constraints, the lack of reliable public *transportation* can become a major barrier to accessing timely and necessary medical care. This limitation directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Carthage, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness are subject to availability. The presence of ride-sharing services offers a potential solution, but the cost of a 70-mile ride can be prohibitive, particularly for frequent appointments. Ride-sharing availability may be limited during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option for those with mobility limitations. These services often include door-to-door *transportation* and assistance with medical equipment. However, medical transport services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles, potentially creating a financial burden.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

The availability of ADA-compliant *transportation* options is crucial for individuals with disabilities. This includes wheelchair-accessible vehicles and drivers trained to assist patients with mobility challenges. The availability of ADA-compliant services impacts the Breast Cancer Score, reflecting the importance of ensuring that all residents can access healthcare, regardless of their physical abilities.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Qualitative Assessment**

Based on the factors outlined above, the Breast Cancer Score for Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051) is a moderate-to-low. The primary challenge is the distance to specialized cancer centers, which necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical *transportation*. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to *healthcare access* for some residents.

The score reflects the need for improvements in *transportation* infrastructure and services to ensure that all residents have equitable access to breast cancer care. This includes advocating for increased public *transportation* options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical *transportation* options.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score, several key initiatives are recommended. First, exploring the feasibility of establishing a public *transportation* route connecting Carthage to Jackson would be beneficial. This could involve partnering with existing regional transit authorities or establishing a new service.

Second, advocating for increased availability of ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with local hospitals or cancer centers to offer subsidized rides for patients would be valuable. Third, ensuring that medical *transportation* services are readily available and affordable is essential.

Finally, raising awareness about the available resources and providing support services to patients navigating the *transportation* challenges is crucial. This could include providing information about financial assistance programs, connecting patients with volunteer drivers, and offering support groups to help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of accessing healthcare.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

For residents of Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051), the journey to breast cancer care requires careful planning and resourcefulness. While the community offers a supportive environment, the *transportation* challenges pose a significant hurdle. By understanding the available options, advocating for improvements, and providing support to patients, the community can work together to ensure that all residents have equitable *healthcare access*. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to improve the Breast Cancer Score and support those facing this challenging diagnosis. The decision of *moving to Carthage* must include a realistic assessment of the *transportation* and *healthcare access* landscape.