39503, Gulfport, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39503, Gulfport, Mississippi is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.68 percent of residents in 39503 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Gulfport with a distance of 1.52 miles from the area.

## Navigating the Breast Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in 39503

Considering a move to Gulfport, Mississippi, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment? This write-up provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and their impact on your Breast Cancer Score within the 39503 ZIP code. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, offering a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape.

The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, is an informal assessment of the ease with which residents can access essential breast cancer services. Factors considered include the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of transportation options, and the overall accessibility of care. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

Gulfport, nestled along the Gulf Coast, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The city's layout, with its reliance on personal vehicles, influences the Breast Cancer Score. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for those with existing health concerns.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Gulfport is the personal vehicle. This makes drive times a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. Accessing facilities like Memorial Hospital at Gulfport or Singing River Health System often involves navigating the city's main thoroughfares.

US Highway 90, running parallel to the coastline, serves as a major artery, connecting various healthcare providers. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Expect congestion, especially near the intersection of Highway 90 and Cowan Road, the gateway to the city's medical district.

Interstate 10, a major east-west highway, provides access to healthcare facilities in neighboring cities like Biloxi and Long Beach. While offering faster travel times, this option may require longer overall commutes, adding to the time commitment for appointments and treatments.

Local roads like Pass Road and 25th Avenue offer alternative routes, but they can be slower due to traffic lights and local congestion. Consider these options during off-peak hours or when avoiding specific traffic hotspots.

Drive times to key healthcare facilities within and outside the 39503 ZIP code will vary based on traffic conditions, but generally, you can expect a 10-20 minute drive to major hospitals during non-peak hours. During rush hour, this could extend to 30 minutes or more, impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) operates public bus services in Gulfport, offering a potentially viable alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or seeking to reduce transportation costs. However, the impact on the Breast Cancer Score is tempered by several factors.

The CTA's routes, while covering a significant portion of the city, may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Transfers might be necessary, adding to travel time and potentially increasing the physical strain on patients. Route 22, for example, travels along Pass Road, providing access to some medical offices.

Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, are available on CTA buses, making them ADA-compliant. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially restricting access to appointments and treatments.

The CTA's impact on the Breast Cancer Score is moderate. While offering a cost-effective option, the limitations in route coverage, frequency, and potential transfer requirements can hinder convenient access to healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another layer of transportation options, offering on-demand access to healthcare facilities. These services can be particularly beneficial for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase transportation costs, potentially creating a financial barrier to care. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, especially in less populated areas, can be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Transit and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, minimizing the physical strain on patients.

Medical transportation services can significantly enhance the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, the cost of these services can be a factor, and advance booking is often required.

**The Breast Cancer Score in 39503: A Holistic Perspective**

The Breast Cancer Score in the 39503 ZIP code is influenced by a combination of factors. While the reliance on personal vehicles presents some challenges, the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation, and the CTA offers alternative solutions.

The proximity of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers, is a positive factor. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can impact drive times and potentially delay access to care.

For individuals considering a move to Gulfport, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Assess your individual needs and preferences, considering factors such as your ability to drive, your budget, and your mobility limitations.

Prioritize healthcare facilities that are easily accessible via your preferred transportation method. Research the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options. Familiarize yourself with the CTA's routes and schedules.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can optimize your Breast Cancer Score and ensure that you have convenient and reliable access to the healthcare services you need. Moving to Gulfport can be a positive experience, and with careful planning, you can navigate the transportation landscape to prioritize your health and well-being.