39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.99 percent of residents in 39567 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Health System with a distance of 0.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pascagoula (ZIP Code 39567)

The sun-drenched Gulf Coast city of Pascagoula, Mississippi, offers a blend of small-town charm and coastal beauty. However, when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing healthcare access, a deeper dive into the local landscape is crucial. This assessment focuses on transportation options and their impact on accessing breast cancer care within ZIP code 39567, ultimately providing a “Breast Cancer Score” to aid informed decisions.

Understanding the transportation infrastructure is paramount. Pascagoula, like many communities, relies heavily on personal vehicles. The primary arteries are U.S. Highway 90, running east-west, and Mississippi Highway 613, extending north-south. These highways are vital for commuting and accessing essential services, including healthcare facilities. Traffic, while generally manageable, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the Ingalls Shipbuilding shipyard.

The drive times to key healthcare providers are a significant factor. Singing River Health System, the primary healthcare provider in the area, operates several facilities. The Singing River Hospital in Pascagoula is the closest major facility, offering a range of services, including cancer care. Drive times to this hospital from various points within the ZIP code are generally short, often under 15 minutes. However, specialized care, such as advanced oncology services, might necessitate travel to facilities in nearby cities like Mobile, Alabama, or Biloxi, Mississippi. This could involve drives of an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions.

Public transportation options are limited. The Jackson County Transit Authority (JCTA) provides bus services, but the routes are not extensive, and schedules may not align with the needs of patients requiring frequent appointments. The JCTA's services are designed to meet the needs of a general population and may not be convenient for those with mobility issues or specific medical needs. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the frequency of service on certain routes may pose challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pascagoula. However, their availability and reliability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for patients with limited financial resources, especially when considering the frequency of appointments associated with breast cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Several companies in the region provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing. They are a valuable resource for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. It influences appointment adherence, treatment outcomes, and overall quality of life. Patients facing transportation challenges may miss appointments, delay treatment, or experience increased stress. These factors can negatively affect their health and well-being.

For individuals considering a move to Pascagoula, the proximity of healthcare facilities to their potential residence is a crucial consideration. Those residing closer to Singing River Hospital or other medical centers will likely have better access to care. However, the availability of reliable transportation options, regardless of location, is essential.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Pascagoula, ZIP code 39567, reflects the interplay of these factors. It is a composite score that considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options. The score is not a definitive measure but rather a tool to aid in decision-making.

**Scoring Methodology:**

* **Drive Times:** Proximity to Singing River Hospital and other cancer care providers is assessed. Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Public Transit:** Availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of JCTA routes are evaluated. Limited service leads to lower scores.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and reliability of Uber and Lyft services are considered. Variable availability results in a moderate score.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability of medical transportation services is assessed. Availability adds to the score.

**Breast Cancer Score for Pascagoula (ZIP Code 39567):**

Based on the analysis, the Breast Cancer Score for Pascagoula, ZIP code 39567, is **moderate**. While the presence of a local hospital with cancer care services is positive, the limitations of public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transportation options provides a crucial safety net but adds to the overall cost of care.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Expand Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of JCTA routes, especially those connecting residential areas with healthcare facilities, would significantly improve access.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for patients could alleviate transportation barriers.
* **Enhance Medical Transportation:** Expanding the availability of medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is crucial.
* **Community Outreach:** Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources is essential.

**Conclusion:**

Pascagoula offers a unique blend of coastal living and community spirit. However, when considering a move, especially for individuals prioritizing healthcare access, a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape is essential. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the current infrastructure. By addressing the identified challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, Pascagoula can enhance healthcare access and improve the lives of residents facing breast cancer.