39170, Terry, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39170, Terry, Mississippi is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.31 percent of residents in 39170 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 11.49 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding swift and informed decisions. Where you live shouldn’t be an obstacle to receiving the best possible care. This assessment explores the transportation landscape in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170), evaluating its impact on healthcare access, specifically for breast cancer treatment. We’ll consider drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a “Breast Cancer Score” to help you understand the challenges and opportunities for those moving to Terry or already residing there. This score is a snapshot, a starting point for your personal healthcare journey.

Terry, Mississippi, a community nestled in the heart of Hinds County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and rural charm. However, its location, while appealing to some, presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing specialized healthcare services. The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. The ability to reach these services reliably and efficiently is, therefore, paramount.

**The Drive Time Dilemma:**

The primary mode of transportation in Terry is the personal vehicle. The major arteries serving the area are Interstate 55 (I-55), which runs north-south, and U.S. Highway 80, which travels east-west. These highways are the lifeblood of regional movement. Accessing healthcare facilities, particularly those offering specialized breast cancer treatment, necessitates navigating these roads, often during peak traffic hours.

The closest major medical centers with comprehensive cancer care are located in Jackson, Mississippi, approximately 20-30 miles away. Driving times, however, can fluctuate significantly. During off-peak hours, the drive to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) or St. Dominic Hospital can be completed in under 30 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly on I-55, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, adding significant stress and potentially delaying treatment. The speed limit on I-55 is 70 mph, but congestion can dramatically reduce the average speed. U.S. Highway 80 offers an alternative route, but it is often slower due to traffic lights and a lower speed limit.

Smaller clinics and imaging centers may be available closer to Terry, offering some convenience for initial screenings and follow-up appointments. However, these facilities may not offer the full spectrum of cancer care, requiring patients to travel to Jackson for more complex treatments. The condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also impact the comfort and safety of patients, particularly those undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue or nausea.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Terry are extremely limited. The Jackson-based public transit system, known as JATRAN, primarily serves the city of Jackson and its immediate suburbs. There is no direct public bus route connecting Terry to Jackson. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or cannot afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership.

The absence of public transit also impacts the availability of transportation for caregivers and family members who may need to accompany patients to appointments. The JATRAN system does offer limited ADA-accessible services, including lift-equipped buses, but these services are not available in Terry. This lack of accessibility further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson metropolitan area, including Terry. However, their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of transportation. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in Terry may be limited, potentially leading to longer wait times or difficulty securing a ride, especially for early morning or late evening appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require pre-booking, limiting spontaneity. Additionally, the availability of these services in Terry may be limited, and patients may need to rely on providers based in Jackson, potentially increasing travel times.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Breast Cancer Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170) is **moderate**. While the proximity to Jackson offers access to comprehensive cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation create significant barriers.

**Factors contributing to the moderate score include:**

* **Proximity to Jackson:** The relatively short distance to major medical centers is a positive factor.
* **Reliance on Personal Vehicles:** The lack of public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, creating challenges for those without access to a car.
* **Traffic Congestion:** Rush hour traffic on I-55 can significantly increase drive times, adding stress and potential delays.
* **Limited Public Transit:** The absence of public transit options limits healthcare access for many residents.
* **Ride-Sharing Inconsistencies:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services can be unpredictable.
* **Medical Transportation Costs:** Medical transportation services can be expensive, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients in Terry, several initiatives could be considered:

* **Advocate for Public Transit Expansion:** Lobbying for the extension of JATRAN services to include a route connecting Terry to Jackson would significantly improve healthcare access for many residents.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Collaborating with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted fares or subsidized transportation for medical appointments could improve affordability.
* **Expand Medical Transportation Options:** Increasing the availability of medical transportation services in Terry, potentially through partnerships with local providers, would provide more reliable and accessible transportation options.
* **Community Education and Support:** Providing information about available transportation resources and support services, such as patient navigators, can help patients navigate the healthcare system.
* **Telemedicine Opportunities:** Exploring telemedicine options for follow-up appointments and consultations could reduce the need for travel.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Terry, Mississippi, presents a unique set of considerations for breast cancer patients. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges to healthcare access. Understanding these challenges and proactively seeking solutions is crucial for ensuring timely and effective treatment. By advocating for improved transportation options and supporting community initiatives, Terry can become a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals facing the challenges of breast cancer. This assessment provides a starting point; a deeper dive into individual needs and resources is always recommended for a comprehensive plan.