39117, Morton, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39117, Morton, Mississippi is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.42 percent of residents in 39117 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Scott Regional with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Morton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39117)

Moving to a new community involves a multitude of considerations, and for those concerned about healthcare access, particularly breast cancer screening and treatment, a thorough understanding of local resources is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 39117 (Morton, Mississippi), focusing on transportation options to and from vital healthcare facilities. The aim is to empower potential residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, all crucial elements of healthcare access. Each category is assessed, and a holistic picture is painted, offering a practical guide for navigating the healthcare landscape in Morton.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

In Morton, Mississippi, personal vehicle transportation remains the primary mode for accessing healthcare. The proximity to Jackson, Mississippi, the state's largest city, significantly impacts the availability of comprehensive breast cancer services. The major thoroughfare connecting Morton to Jackson is **Highway 80**, a vital artery for healthcare access.

The drive to Jackson's major hospitals, such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) and St. Dominic Hospital, typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic conditions. These facilities house comprehensive breast cancer centers offering screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

Smaller, more local facilities, like the Merit Health Rankin in Brandon, Mississippi, are closer, usually reachable within a 30-minute drive via **Highway 49**. This hospital provides some breast cancer services, including screening mammograms and potentially some diagnostic procedures, making it a more convenient option for certain needs.

Rural roads and local streets, such as **Highway 13** and **Highway 35**, are also relevant, particularly for accessing primary care physicians and local clinics that may offer initial breast cancer screenings or referrals. The condition of these roads, along with traffic patterns, should be considered when evaluating the feasibility of personal vehicle transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Morton and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those who are elderly, disabled, or economically disadvantaged.

While the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) oversees the state's transportation infrastructure, the availability of public bus routes within Morton is virtually nonexistent. There are no established public bus routes, making reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport essential for healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance in the context of public transit is not applicable in Morton due to the lack of public bus services. This underscores the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing healthcare without alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson metropolitan area and may be accessible in Morton, though availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility needs.

Several medical transport companies serve the Jackson area, including but not limited to: American Medical Response (AMR), and MedStar. These services offer various levels of care, from basic transportation to specialized medical transport with trained medical staff. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage.

**Breast Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Morton, Mississippi, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Jackson provides access to comprehensive breast cancer services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant challenges for some residents.

**Factors that contribute to a lower score:**

* **Limited Public Transit:** The absence of public bus routes severely restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles.
* **Dependence on Personal Vehicles:** The need to rely on personal vehicles for transportation can be a barrier for those who cannot drive, lack access to a car, or are unable to afford the costs associated with vehicle ownership.
* **Ride-Sharing Inconsistencies:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas.

**Factors that contribute to a higher score:**

* **Proximity to Jackson:** The relatively short drive to Jackson provides access to comprehensive breast cancer centers and specialized care.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability of medical transport services offers a valuable solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation.
* **Local Screening Options:** The presence of local clinics and hospitals offering screening mammograms provides convenient access to initial breast cancer screenings.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Morton:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your personal transportation capabilities and needs. If you do not have access to a personal vehicle, carefully consider the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Research Insurance Coverage:** Determine your insurance coverage for transportation services, as this can significantly impact the affordability of accessing healthcare.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Identify potential support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can assist with transportation to medical appointments.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, screening centers, and comprehensive breast cancer centers.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For those considering moving to Morton, Mississippi, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring healthcare access, especially regarding breast cancer. While the availability of comprehensive services in Jackson provides a significant advantage, the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges. By carefully assessing individual needs, researching available resources, and exploring support networks, individuals can navigate the healthcare landscape in Morton and make informed decisions about their healthcare access. This "Breast Cancer Score" is a starting point, encouraging prospective residents to delve deeper into the specifics of transportation and healthcare access, ensuring a smoother transition to their new community.