39437, Ellisville, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39437, Ellisville, Mississippi is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.04 percent of residents in 39437 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Central Reg Med Ctr with a distance of 7.46 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39437**

The sun dips low over the pines, casting long shadows across the quiet streets of Ellisville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39437). This rural community, nestled in Jones County, offers a slower pace of life, a haven for those seeking respite from the relentless churn of the city. But beneath the veneer of tranquility lies a critical concern: **healthcare access**, particularly for those facing the formidable challenge of breast cancer. This assessment delves into the realities of navigating the **transportation** landscape, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services.

The journey begins at home, the starting point for a potentially life-saving voyage. Imagine a woman newly diagnosed, facing the daunting prospect of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Her ability to receive timely and effective care hinges on her capacity to traverse the distance to qualified medical professionals. This "Breast Cancer Score" considers the available modes of **transportation**, the distances involved, and the potential barriers to access.

Ellisville's primary artery is Highway 11, a north-south corridor connecting the town to larger cities like Laurel and Hattiesburg. Highway 84, another crucial route, runs east-west, offering access to neighboring communities. The drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, is approximately 20 miles, a journey that typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This relatively short drive time provides a baseline for the score, but it's only the first hurdle.

For those without personal vehicles, the options become significantly limited. Public **transportation** in Jones County is sparse. The primary provider is the Jones County Transit System, which operates on a demand-response basis. This means riders must schedule their trips in advance, often with a 24-hour notice. Service areas are limited, and routes are not fixed, making it challenging to rely on for regular medical appointments. The system does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, but the scheduling constraints and limited reach can be a significant obstacle.

The lack of robust public **transportation** elevates the importance of ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft operate in the Hattiesburg area, but their availability in Ellisville can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services, particularly for frequent appointments, can quickly become a financial burden. This financial burden can be a significant deterrent to **healthcare access**, especially for those already facing the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a potential solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers may offer transportation specifically for medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-authorization and may not be covered by all insurance plans. The availability of these services and the complexity of navigating insurance coverage add another layer of complexity to the equation.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services within Ellisville. The presence of local primary care physicians, who can provide initial screenings and referrals, is a positive factor. Proximity to pharmacies, where medications can be obtained, is another critical element. The availability of support groups or cancer-related resources within the community can also significantly impact the overall score, offering emotional and practical support to patients and their families.

The physical and emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is immense. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape, to reach medical appointments without undue stress or financial hardship, is paramount. For those **moving to Ellisville**, or already residing there, understanding the challenges of **healthcare access** is essential.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 39437 is a complex calculation. The relatively short drive time to Hattiesburg provides a positive starting point. However, the limited public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the complexities of medical **transportation** services, along with the lack of readily available local support resources, significantly detract from the score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Ellisville, Mississippi, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to a comprehensive cancer center is relatively short, the lack of reliable and affordable **transportation** options creates significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The score highlights the urgent need for improved public **transportation**, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and enhanced support for medical **transportation** options.

The score is not a static number; it’s a call to action. It underscores the importance of community collaboration, advocacy, and policy changes to ensure that all residents, regardless of their **transportation** circumstances, have equitable access to the life-saving care they deserve. The fight against breast cancer is a community effort, and ensuring accessible **healthcare access** is a crucial step in that fight. The future of **healthcare access** in Ellisville depends on the collective will to address these challenges and create a more supportive environment for those battling this devastating disease.