39577, Wiggins, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39577, Wiggins, Mississippi is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.23 percent of residents in 39577 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pearl River County Hospital with a distance of 25.06 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wiggins, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39577)**

The sun-drenched Gulf Coast town of Wiggins, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Stone County, presents a unique landscape for those seeking healthcare, especially concerning the critical area of breast cancer detection and treatment. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, will delve into the realities of transportation and healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 39577, painting a detailed picture for those considering moving to Wiggins or seeking care within its vicinity.

The Breast Cancer Score aims to assess the ease with which residents can access essential breast cancer services, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. This score considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately reflecting the overall accessibility of care.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Paving the Way to Healthcare**

For many residents of Wiggins, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive to healthcare facilities is heavily influenced by the local road network. The primary arteries, including US Highway 49, serve as the main conduit for travel north and south. Mississippi Highway 26 provides east-west access, connecting Wiggins to neighboring communities.

The nearest hospitals equipped to handle comprehensive breast cancer care are located in Hattiesburg, approximately 50 miles north. The drive along US-49 can take between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey becomes more challenging for those living on the outskirts of Wiggins, potentially increasing travel times.

Coastal access, to facilities in Biloxi and Gulfport, requires a drive south, generally taking 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. This route involves traveling along Mississippi Highway 26 and then merging onto I-10 or US-90, depending on the specific destination. These longer drives are a significant consideration for patients undergoing frequent treatments or facing mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Wiggins are limited, posing a considerable challenge for those without personal vehicles. Stone County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport. The limited public transit infrastructure is a critical factor impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The absence of reliable public transportation underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Wiggins. However, their availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The reliability of these services is a key consideration for patients needing timely transportation to appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients with specific needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. The availability and cost of these services are critical factors in the Breast Cancer Score.

**Specific Medical Transport Brands**

While specific brand names may vary, several companies specialize in NEMT services within the region. These companies typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers to assist patients. It is crucial to research and compare these services, considering factors like insurance coverage, cost, and availability.

**ADA Considerations: Ensuring Inclusivity**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation and medical transport services must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and ensuring that facilities are accessible. When evaluating transportation options, it is essential to confirm that they comply with ADA guidelines.

**Healthcare Access: Mapping the Landscape**

The primary healthcare facilities serving residents of Wiggins are the Stone County Hospital and the local clinics. However, these facilities may not offer comprehensive breast cancer services. This necessitates travel to larger hospitals and cancer centers in Hattiesburg, Biloxi, or Gulfport.

The distance to these specialized facilities underscores the importance of reliable transportation. The availability of early detection services, such as mammograms, within the local community is crucial for improving healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score takes into account the availability of these services.

**Moving to Wiggins: A Healthcare Perspective**

For those considering moving to Wiggins, the availability of healthcare access is a critical factor. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services should be carefully considered.

Prospective residents should research the availability of breast cancer services and the associated transportation costs. The Breast Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access and making informed decisions.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Wiggins, Mississippi, reflects a complex interplay of factors. Drive times to specialized healthcare facilities are a significant consideration. The limited public transit options necessitate reliance on alternative transportation methods. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services are critical factors.

The score is a dynamic assessment that can change as transportation options evolve. Continuous evaluation and improvement are essential to ensure that residents of Wiggins have equitable access to essential breast cancer services. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access and promoting informed decision-making.