39427, Carson, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39427, Carson, Mississippi is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.45 percent of residents in 39427 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jefferson Davis Community Hospital Cah with a distance of 0.64 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39427**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is a journey fraught with emotional and physical challenges. A critical component of this journey is access to timely and reliable healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 39427, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options to medical facilities is essential. This "Breast Cancer Score" delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is vital for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis, or for those considering moving to Carson, Mississippi, and needing to understand their healthcare access.

The primary concern is the time and effort required to reach essential medical appointments. The geographic layout of 39427, centered around Carson, necessitates understanding the major roadways. Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, likely in Hattiesburg, demands careful planning. The most direct route typically involves Highway 49, a major north-south artery. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, especially during peak commute times. The condition of Highway 49, including potential construction zones, can significantly impact travel time.

Alternatively, residents might utilize local roads such as Old Highway 49 or various county roads to bypass traffic. However, these routes often involve slower speeds and less direct paths. Weather conditions, particularly heavy rain or fog, can further complicate travel, making these secondary routes less desirable. The condition of these roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also be a factor, especially for patients undergoing treatment and potentially experiencing physical discomfort.

Public transportation options in 39427 and the surrounding area are limited. The availability of bus routes is minimal, and service frequency may be infrequent, especially on weekends or evenings. Passengers with mobility issues, including those undergoing cancer treatment, must consider accessibility features such as ramps, lifts, and designated seating. The lack of readily available public transit can create a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like 39427 can be inconsistent. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand, such as medical appointments, can also make these services expensive. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during inclement weather, is another consideration. Patients must also factor in the time it takes for a ride-sharing vehicle to arrive, potentially adding to their overall commute time.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility, such as wheelchairs or walkers. However, the availability of medical transport services in 39427 may be limited, and the cost can be a significant financial burden. Patients must investigate the specific services offered by various providers, including their coverage area, types of vehicles, and accessibility features.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 39427 must also consider the location of specific healthcare facilities. The distance to the nearest oncology clinics, radiation therapy centers, and surgical facilities is a crucial factor. Patients may need to travel to multiple locations for different aspects of their treatment, further increasing the transportation burden. The availability of parking at these facilities, as well as the ease of access for patients with mobility issues, is also important.

For those considering moving to Carson, Mississippi, the availability of healthcare access should be a major factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the transportation options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. They should also investigate the location of healthcare facilities and the types of services offered.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for 39427 reflects the challenges and limitations of accessing healthcare. The lack of robust public transportation, the potential for long drive times, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for patients. While medical transport services offer a specialized solution, their cost and availability may be prohibitive. Residents of 39427 must carefully evaluate their transportation options to ensure they can access the timely and reliable healthcare they need.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a critical tool for patients, healthcare providers, and community planners. It highlights the importance of addressing transportation challenges to improve healthcare access and support the well-being of residents. The score can also inform future development and infrastructure projects, such as improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, or increasing the availability of medical transport providers. By understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, we can work towards creating a more supportive and accessible environment for those facing breast cancer in 39427.