39352, Porterville, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39352, Porterville, Mississippi is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.68 percent of residents in 39352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Stennis Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.10 miles from the area.

The journey to healthcare, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, becomes a critical consideration when evaluating a move to Porterville, Mississippi, ZIP Code 39352. This write-up, a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, explores the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access within this area. It considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, painting a detailed picture for potential residents. Understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making, especially when navigating the complexities of breast cancer care.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 39352 is likely to be in Meridian, Mississippi, approximately 30 miles away. This distance translates to a significant commute, demanding careful planning and consideration of available transportation options. The primary route to Meridian from Porterville involves navigating Highway 19 North, a major thoroughfare connecting the two cities. Depending on traffic, the drive time can fluctuate, typically ranging from 40 to 60 minutes. This journey necessitates a reliable vehicle and a tolerance for potential delays.

Alternative routes exist, offering potential variations in drive time. Taking County Road 16, then connecting to Highway 80 East, provides a slightly longer but potentially less congested alternative. However, this route introduces more rural roads, potentially increasing travel time and requiring greater navigational awareness. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, should also be considered.

Public transportation options within 39352 are limited. The Meridian Transit System (MTS) serves the city of Meridian, but its routes and schedules may not directly connect with Porterville. Even if a connection were possible, the travel time using public transit would be significantly longer than driving, potentially exceeding two hours each way. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on MTS buses would need to be verified for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Meridian. However, their presence in Porterville is less certain. The availability of these services depends on driver density and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments could prove unreliable and expensive. The cost of these services, especially for a round trip of 60 miles or more, would quickly accumulate.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically involve pre-scheduled pickups and drop-offs, ensuring a reliable means of reaching healthcare facilities. However, these services often come with a higher cost compared to personal transportation or public transit.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for 39352, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to Meridian for healthcare is feasible, it presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability highlight potential barriers to healthcare access. For individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, the frequency of appointments, the potential for fatigue, and the need for support during travel necessitate careful consideration of these transportation factors.

Moving to Porterville requires proactive planning for healthcare access. Prospective residents should investigate the availability of medical transportation services, explore potential carpooling arrangements with neighbors, and thoroughly assess their transportation needs. The proximity to Meridian offers access to comprehensive healthcare, but the journey itself requires careful management.

The “Breast Cancer Score” is not solely about the distance to healthcare facilities. It also encompasses the quality of life and the ease with which individuals can access the care they need. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape, whether by personal vehicle, public transit, or specialized services, is paramount. For those facing breast cancer, the added stress of transportation challenges can exacerbate an already difficult situation.

The drive along Highway 19 North, while the most direct route, can be stressful, especially during peak traffic hours. The potential for delays and the need for constant vigilance can contribute to anxiety. The alternative routes, while offering potential relief from congestion, introduce the complexities of rural roads and the need for enhanced navigational skills.

The lack of readily available public transit further complicates the situation. The reliance on personal vehicles places a significant burden on individuals, especially those who may be experiencing physical limitations or who may not have access to a reliable vehicle. The absence of convenient public transit options underscores the need for alternative solutions.

Ride-sharing services, while potentially available in Meridian, may not be a consistent or affordable option for regular healthcare appointments. The fluctuating costs and the potential for delays in service can create uncertainty and stress. The reliance on ride-sharing services can also limit the flexibility of appointment scheduling.

Medical transportation services offer a more reliable solution, but they come with a higher price tag. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals who may already be facing financial challenges due to their illness. The need for pre-scheduling and the potential for limited availability can also present challenges.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for 39352, in summary, suggests a need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure adequate healthcare access. The drive to Meridian, while manageable, requires careful consideration of traffic, road conditions, and personal limitations. The limited public transit options and the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability necessitate exploration of alternative solutions, such as medical transportation services or carpooling arrangements.

For individuals considering moving to Porterville, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial. This understanding will enable them to make informed decisions and to proactively address the challenges of healthcare access. The ability to navigate these challenges will significantly impact their quality of life and their ability to receive timely and effective breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the “Breast Cancer Score” for 39352 highlights the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in healthcare access. While Meridian offers comprehensive healthcare facilities, the journey to access these facilities requires careful planning and a proactive approach to overcome the existing transportation challenges. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation options is essential for ensuring that residents of 39352 can receive the breast cancer care they need.