39561, Mc Henry, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39561, Mc Henry, Mississippi is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.72 percent of residents in 39561 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Gulfport with a distance of 18.59 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39561**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. It's not simply about the medical expertise available, but also about the practicalities of getting there. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 39561 (Mc Henry, Mississippi), evaluating the transportation landscape for those needing breast cancer care. Our "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-share/medical transport availability, painting a picture of healthcare access in this community. It's a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Mc Henry, as the ability to reach timely and consistent medical appointments is paramount.

The primary concern for residents of 39561 is the availability of specialized breast cancer treatment. While the area may have primary care physicians, the critical services of oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists often necessitate travel. The most direct route to significant healthcare centers likely involves driving.

Driving times are heavily influenced by the road network. The main artery is Highway 49, running north-south, offering a relatively quick route to Hattiesburg, a major medical hub. Expect a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey involves navigating Highway 49, a well-maintained but often busy road, especially during peak hours.

Another option is to utilize Highway 29, which intersects Highway 49. This route might provide an alternative for reaching certain facilities, though it could add to the overall travel time, particularly if the destination is not directly accessible from Highway 29. Local roads, such as Mc Henry Avenue and various county roads, offer access within the community, but are unlikely to be suitable for long-distance commutes to cancer treatment centers.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but the volume of traffic, especially during rush hour, can significantly impact travel times. Accidents, even minor ones, can cause considerable delays, adding stress to an already difficult situation. The Breast Cancer Score considers these factors, recognizing that unpredictable delays can undermine the reliability of healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 39561 are extremely limited. The availability of bus routes is practically nonexistent. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This is a critical consideration for elderly residents, those with disabilities, or individuals undergoing treatment that may impair their ability to drive.

The lack of public transportation underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the dependability of these services, recognizing that consistent access is crucial for treatment adherence.

Medical transport services are another critical component of the transportation landscape. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation, including those with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and can be expensive. The Breast Cancer Score considers the cost and availability of these services, as well as the ease of booking and the reliability of their schedules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor in evaluating public transit and ride-share options. While ride-share services are becoming more accessible, the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles is still not guaranteed. Medical transport services typically offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but these services are often more expensive than standard transportation options.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs. Some hospitals and cancer centers offer these services, which can help patients navigate the complexities of transportation and financial assistance. These programs can be invaluable in reducing the burden of transportation costs and ensuring that patients can access the care they need.

The overall picture for breast cancer healthcare access in 39561 is mixed. While the availability of driving routes to major medical centers is relatively good, the lack of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The Breast Cancer Score reflects these complexities, recognizing that healthcare access is not just about proximity, but also about the ease and reliability of transportation.

The ideal scenario would involve a combination of accessible transportation options, including reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing services, and affordable medical transport. The community could benefit from initiatives to improve public transportation, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, and expand access to transportation assistance programs.

The Breast Cancer Score for 39561 highlights the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare access. It underscores the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the practical challenges of getting to and from medical appointments. For those considering moving to Mc Henry, this analysis provides a critical perspective on the realities of healthcare access and the importance of planning for transportation needs. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical factor in ensuring that individuals can receive the timely and consistent care they need to fight breast cancer.