39154, Raymond, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39154, Raymond, Mississippi is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 39154 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 11.81 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Raymond, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39154)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and informed action. For residents of Raymond, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39154), the ability to quickly access quality healthcare becomes paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to crucial medical facilities, acknowledging the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Raymond, as it highlights the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

Raymond, a charming community nestled in Hinds County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative isolation from major metropolitan areas presents unique challenges when it comes to specialized medical care. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Raymond will therefore consider the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities, factoring in travel times and available transportation alternatives.

The cornerstone of our assessment lies in understanding the drive times to the closest comprehensive breast cancer care centers. The primary route for most Raymond residents involves traversing the roadways. Heading east, the journey to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, a major healthcare hub, is a critical consideration. The most direct route typically involves utilizing **Highway 18** east towards Jackson, then connecting to **Interstate 20** east. This trip, covering approximately 25 miles, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which can be particularly heavy during peak commuting hours.

Another option involves traveling north on **Highway 18** to **Highway 49** south, then connecting to **Interstate 20** east. This route, while potentially adding a few miles, might offer a slightly less congested path, especially during rush hour. The journey to UMMC is vital, as it houses a comprehensive cancer center with specialized breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

For residents seeking a different healthcare provider, the drive to Baptist Medical Center in Jackson is also a consideration. The route to Baptist Medical Center typically follows a similar path, utilizing **Highway 18** and **Interstate 20**. However, the specific exit and route within Jackson will vary, potentially impacting the overall travel time.

Public transportation options in Raymond are limited, which presents a significant challenge. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This deficiency necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation, which can add complexity and potential delays to accessing timely medical care.

While there is no established public transit system directly serving Raymond, the possibility of utilizing the Jackson-based public transit system, **JATRAN**, exists. However, this option is less than ideal. JATRAN's routes primarily operate within the city of Jackson and do not directly extend to Raymond. Furthermore, the transfer points and potential wait times involved in such a journey could make it a time-consuming and cumbersome process, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of JATRAN buses is a critical consideration for patients with disabilities, as it ensures that they can access transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. However, their availability in Raymond and the surrounding areas can be variable. While these services are generally accessible, the cost can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The distance to Jackson and the potential for surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can dramatically increase the expense.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, represent another option. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While these services provide a valuable resource, they also come with associated costs, and advance booking is often required.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Raymond must also account for the availability of local healthcare resources. While Raymond itself may not have a dedicated cancer center, it does have primary care physicians and clinics. These facilities play a vital role in early detection, screening, and referral. Regular mammograms and clinical breast exams are crucial for early detection, and prompt referral to specialists is essential for effective treatment.

The quality of the local healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of diagnostic imaging services like mammography and ultrasound, is also a factor. The ability to undergo these tests locally can significantly reduce the need for frequent trips to Jackson, improving convenience and reducing travel time.

For individuals considering moving to Raymond, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully assessing the transportation landscape. While Raymond offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Raymond can be summarized as follows: While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access present challenges. The drive times to major cancer centers in Jackson are manageable, but the potential for traffic delays and the cost of ride-sharing services must be considered. The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable, albeit costly, alternative. The presence of local primary care physicians and the potential for local diagnostic services contribute positively to the score.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Raymond underscores the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making. Residents, especially those with a family history of breast cancer or those seeking to relocate, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure timely and convenient access to quality healthcare. This includes considering the costs associated with transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transportation services. The journey to healthcare in Raymond requires careful navigation, emphasizing the critical link between transportation and the well-being of its residents.