39470, Poplarville, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39470, Poplarville, Mississippi is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.92 percent of residents in 39470 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pearl River County Hospital with a distance of 3.99 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Poplarville, MS (ZIP Code 39470)

Poplarville, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Pearl River County, offers a slower pace of life, a welcoming community, and a relatively affordable cost of living. For those considering moving to Poplarville, particularly women, understanding healthcare access, specifically concerning breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 39470, evaluating the accessibility of crucial healthcare services, focusing on transportation options, and highlighting potential challenges and opportunities.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors beyond just the presence of a healthcare facility. It assesses the ease of reaching diagnostic centers, treatment facilities, and support services, acknowledging that transportation significantly influences healthcare access. This score aims to empower potential residents with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and well-being in Poplarville.

The primary healthcare provider in Poplarville is Highland Community Hospital, offering a range of services, including primary care and some specialty consultations. However, for comprehensive breast cancer care, residents often need to travel to larger medical centers. This is where transportation becomes critical.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in Poplarville. From the center of town, a drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer center in Hattiesburg, approximately 30 miles away, takes around 45 minutes via US-11 South. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be heavier during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. For those residing on the outskirts of Poplarville, particularly towards the west, the drive time might be longer.

Another option involves traveling to Gulfport, roughly 60 miles south, which houses several hospitals with oncology departments. The most direct route involves taking US-49 South, a journey that can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. Again, this route is generally reliable, but potential delays should be factored in. The condition of the vehicle, the driver’s physical and mental state, and weather conditions all affect the journey.

Public transportation options in Poplarville are limited. Pearl River County does not have a traditional public bus system. This severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a significant deficiency when evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score."

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Poplarville, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. This uncertainty can pose a challenge for scheduled appointments, such as mammograms or chemotherapy sessions. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transportation services are another option, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require advance booking and may involve co-pays or other fees. However, they provide a more reliable option for those unable to drive or use ride-sharing. Researching and pre-arranging these services is crucial for anyone relying on them.

Considering the absence of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Poplarville, MS, is negatively impacted. The availability of ride-sharing is not guaranteed, and the drive times to comprehensive cancer centers are substantial.

The availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, also affects the "Breast Cancer Score." While some online resources and telehealth options are available, in-person support is often preferred. Accessing these services may require additional travel, further complicating healthcare access.

Furthermore, the economic factors influence the "Breast Cancer Score." The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can add to the financial burden of healthcare. This is particularly relevant for individuals with limited incomes or those undergoing treatment, which can significantly impact their financial stability.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of preventative care. Regular mammograms are crucial for early detection. The proximity of a facility offering mammograms and the ease of scheduling appointments are essential factors. Highland Community Hospital offers mammograms, but the frequency of appointments and the availability of specialized diagnostic services may be limited compared to larger hospitals.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Poplarville, MS (39470) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services present significant hurdles.

For prospective residents, especially those with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing the disease, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of reliable transportation options is essential. This includes researching medical transportation services, considering the cost of travel, and planning for potential delays.

While Poplarville offers a charming lifestyle, healthcare access, particularly for specialized services, requires careful consideration. Understanding the transportation landscape, researching available resources, and planning for potential challenges will empower residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively and prioritize their health and well-being.

The "Breast Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Researching healthcare providers, understanding transportation options, and establishing a support network are crucial steps for anyone considering moving to Poplarville. This proactive approach ensures that individuals can access the care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment, acknowledging that the healthcare landscape and transportation options can evolve. Continuous monitoring of available resources, including the development of new transportation services or the expansion of healthcare facilities, is essential to ensure that residents have access to the best possible care. Moving to Poplarville requires a careful assessment of healthcare access, particularly for specialized needs like breast cancer care.