39116, Mize, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39116, Mize, Mississippi is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.19 percent of residents in 39116 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Magee General Hospital with a distance of 10.34 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mize, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39116)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is rarely straightforward. It demands not only the expertise of medical professionals but also the often-overlooked consideration of transportation. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Mize, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39116), delves into the realities of healthcare access, focusing on the practicalities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support services. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Mize, or already residing there.

The score considers various transportation options, from the convenience of personal vehicles to the limitations of public transit and the potential of ride-sharing services. It evaluates the drive times, the availability of accessible options, and the overall ease with which a patient can navigate the system, all of which impact the quality of care and the emotional well-being of those facing breast cancer.

**The Automotive Landscape: Highways and Byways**

For most residents of Mize, the primary mode of transportation will be a personal vehicle. The town itself is small, but the nearest significant healthcare facilities are in larger towns and cities. The closest hospital, Merit Health Rankin, is located in Brandon, Mississippi, a drive of approximately 50 miles. The most direct route involves navigating Mississippi Highway 35 North, a two-lane road that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. This drive, under ideal conditions, can take around an hour and 15 minutes.

Alternatively, one could travel west on Highway 28 to Highway 49, which then leads north to Brandon. This route adds mileage, but offers a slightly wider road and may be preferable if traffic is heavy on Highway 35. The drive time would be similar, around an hour and 15 minutes.

Further afield, the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, Mississippi, offers comprehensive cancer care. This journey involves traveling north on Highway 35 to Highway 80, which then leads west to Jackson. This drive is considerably longer, approximately 80 miles, and can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Mize are extremely limited. There is no established bus route directly serving Mize. The nearest public transit hub would be in Jackson, which would require a significant drive to access. This lack of public transportation presents a substantial challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle, or who are unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for public transit. However, given the lack of public transit, this is not a primary factor.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Jackson area, but their presence in Mize is less reliable. Availability may be limited, and wait times could be extended. The cost of these services for a long-distance trip to Brandon or Jackson could quickly become a significant financial burden.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized non-emergency medical transportation providers, may be an option. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they can be expensive and require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**

While transportation is a critical component of healthcare access, other factors also play a significant role. The availability of specialists, the cost of care, and the emotional support network available to the patient are all crucial.

The Breast Cancer Score for Mize must also consider the proximity of support groups, counseling services, and patient advocacy organizations. These resources can provide invaluable emotional support and guidance throughout the treatment journey.

**The Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for Mize, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39116) is, unfortunately, low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. The long distances to major medical centers, particularly UMMC in Jackson, add to the complexity.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Individuals considering moving to Mize or already residing there and facing a breast cancer diagnosis should carefully assess their transportation options. They should:

* **Prioritize access to a reliable vehicle:** This is the most critical factor.
* **Explore the availability of medical transport services:** Research local providers and understand their costs and booking procedures.
* **Investigate potential support networks:** Connect with patient advocacy groups and cancer support organizations.
* **Plan for extended travel times:** Account for potential traffic delays and the need for rest stops during long journeys.
* **Consider the financial implications:** The cost of transportation can be a significant burden, so budget accordingly.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a definitive judgment, but a starting point for a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access in Mize. It emphasizes the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in the overall well-being of individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This information is essential for anyone considering moving to Mize, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The lack of readily available transportation options highlights the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access and support for those affected by breast cancer.