39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.88 percent of residents in 39520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Medical Center-Hancock with a distance of 2.21 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39520**

The salty air of Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi, whispers promises of a tranquil life. But for those considering a move to this coastal haven, especially women, a critical consideration is healthcare access, specifically for breast cancer screening and treatment. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 39520, assessing the ease of reaching essential medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport, all vital components of healthcare access.

The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, acknowledging that the reality of navigating the healthcare system is complex and personal. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Coastal Roads**

The primary artery for travel in and out of Bay Saint Louis is US Highway 90, a scenic route hugging the Gulf Coast. Traveling eastward, towards Gulfport and Biloxi, is the most direct path to major medical centers. From central Bay Saint Louis, a drive to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, a facility with comprehensive cancer care, typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey often involves navigating US Highway 90 and, potentially, Interstate 10 (I-10) for a faster route.

Westward, towards Slidell and New Orleans, offers access to additional specialized facilities. The drive to Slidell Memorial Hospital, for example, is roughly an hour, primarily via US Highway 90. However, the traffic can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours and hurricane season, potentially extending travel times significantly. This underscores the importance of factoring in potential delays when scheduling appointments or treatments.

Smaller roads like Menge Avenue and North Beach Boulevard offer alternative routes within Bay Saint Louis, but they are less direct and may be impacted by local traffic. The accessibility of these roads is generally good, but they may not be suitable for emergency situations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in this area are limited. The Hancock CountyHancock County Transit System (HCTS) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and they may not directly serve all medical facilities. Information on routes and ADA features is available on the HCTS website. The availability of public transportation for healthcare access in 39520 is a significant concern, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive.

The lack of a robust public transit system emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for accessing healthcare. This is a critical factor in evaluating the overall healthcare access profile for this ZIP code.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or treatments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those provided by private ambulance companies, are available for patients requiring assistance. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those needing transport to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements.

**Healthcare Facilities: A Spectrum of Options**

The primary healthcare facilities serving residents of 39520 include Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, Ochsner Medical Center – Hancock, and Slidell Memorial Hospital. These facilities offer a range of services, including breast cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support.

Memorial Hospital at Gulfport is a comprehensive facility with a dedicated cancer center. Ochsner Medical Center – Hancock provides some local services. Slidell Memorial Hospital, while further away, offers additional specialized care. The choice of facility depends on individual needs, insurance coverage, and the availability of specific services.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access. All healthcare facilities are required to meet ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This includes features such as ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces.

However, the accessibility of transportation options is also critical. The HCTS, for example, is required to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses. The availability of accessible ride-sharing vehicles may be limited, and patients should confirm these features when booking.

**Moving to Bay Saint Louis: A Holistic Perspective**

When considering a move to Bay Saint Louis, potential residents must weigh the benefits of coastal living against the realities of healthcare access. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a simple metric but a framework for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport are all factors that impact healthcare access. Individuals with breast cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate these factors and consider their personal needs and circumstances.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 39520 reveals a complex transportation landscape. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide alternatives, but they may come with added costs and logistical considerations.

For women considering a move to Bay Saint Louis, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. Planning for transportation needs, researching healthcare facilities, and exploring all available options are critical steps in ensuring access to timely and appropriate breast cancer care. The beauty of the coast is undeniable, but the practicalities of healthcare access must be a priority.