39573, Perkinston, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39573, Perkinston, Mississippi is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.24 percent of residents in 39573 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pearl River County Hospital with a distance of 19.52 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Perkinston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39573)**

The journey to breast cancer care in Perkinston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39573) presents a complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the realities of rural living. This write-up aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking diagnosis, treatment, and support, painting a picture for those considering moving to Perkinston or seeking care within the community. We'll explore the available modes of transportation, drive times, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities, ultimately providing a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" for the area.

Perkinston, nestled in Stone County, is characterized by its semi-rural landscape, where sprawling pine forests meet quiet residential areas. The nearest major medical centers equipped for comprehensive breast cancer care are situated in Hattiesburg and Gulfport, necessitating travel. This geographical reality significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without reliable personal transportation.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Highway 49, the major north-south thoroughfare, and Highway 26, which traverses east-west. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, especially near Hattiesburg. Other essential routes include Perkinston-Poplarville Road and various county roads, providing access to local amenities and connecting to the larger highway network.

Driving to Hattiesburg, home to Forrest General Hospital, a leading regional healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within Perkinston. This journey involves traversing Highway 49, a relatively straightforward route. However, the drive itself can be fatiguing, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects.

For those seeking care in Gulfport, the drive is longer, averaging one hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and a half. This route involves traveling south on Highway 49, then east on I-10, a major interstate highway. While I-10 offers a faster travel time, it can be susceptible to delays due to accidents or construction. This longer travel time compounds the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for those needing frequent appointments or experiencing debilitating symptoms.

Public transportation options are limited in Perkinston and the surrounding areas. The availability of public transit, particularly for healthcare access, is crucial. The Mississippi Coast Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides some bus services in the coastal areas, but these routes do not directly serve Perkinston. The lack of a robust public transportation system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of ADA-compliant features on available public transit further exacerbates this issue for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent, especially in rural locations. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas further from major population centers. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, making it a less viable option for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services often provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require prior booking and can be costly, but they offer a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance. However, the availability of these services may be limited, and the booking process can be complex.

Healthcare access is further complicated by the availability of specialized breast cancer care. While Perkinston has a local clinic, it does not offer comprehensive breast cancer services. Patients often need to travel to Hattiesburg or Gulfport for mammograms, biopsies, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. This necessitates careful planning, coordination, and financial resources.

The availability of support services, such as support groups, counseling, and financial assistance, also impacts healthcare access. These services can help patients navigate the emotional, practical, and financial challenges of breast cancer. While some support services may be available in Hattiesburg or Gulfport, accessing them requires additional travel and coordination.

Considering all these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Perkinston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39573) is moderate. While the area offers a relatively safe and affordable living environment, the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access are significant. The lack of robust public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized medical facilities create barriers to timely and convenient care.

The score is influenced by the drive times to major medical centers, the limited availability of public transit, the potential unreliability and expense of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation. The absence of comprehensive breast cancer services within the immediate community further reduces the score.

For individuals considering moving to Perkinston or seeking healthcare access in the area, careful planning and consideration are essential. Securing reliable transportation, researching available medical transportation services, and exploring financial assistance programs are crucial steps. Building a strong support network, including family, friends, and healthcare professionals, is also vital.

The community's commitment to improving healthcare access is paramount. Advocating for expanded public transportation options, supporting the development of local healthcare services, and promoting awareness of available resources can significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score" and the quality of life for residents of Perkinston and the surrounding areas. The journey to breast cancer care is a challenging one, and in Perkinston, the transportation infrastructure plays a significant role in shaping that experience.