38236, Mansfield, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 38236, Mansfield, Tennessee is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.70 percent of residents in 38236 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Medical Center with a distance of 16.30 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mansfield, TN (ZIP Code 38236)

The quest for timely and effective breast cancer care is a deeply personal journey, one often fraught with logistical hurdles. For residents of Mansfield, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38236), the availability of prompt diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” examines the accessibility of healthcare resources within and around this rural community, focusing on the crucial element of **transportation**.

The Breast Cancer Score for Mansfield, TN, considers several factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the ease of travel via various modes of **transportation**, and the availability of support services. This assessment aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking breast cancer care in this specific geographic area. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge necessary to navigate the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about their health.

Mansfield, nestled in Henry County, presents unique challenges. Its rural setting means residents often rely heavily on personal vehicles. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. This geographic reality underscores the importance of understanding **transportation** options and their associated time commitments.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary route for accessing healthcare outside of Mansfield involves navigating the local roadways. The closest major medical facilities are situated in Paris, TN, approximately 15 miles away. The journey typically involves taking TN-79, a well-maintained highway that connects Mansfield to Paris. Drive time to the Henry County Medical Center, a key healthcare provider, averages around 20-25 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Jackson, TN, about 60 miles away. This trip necessitates using TN-79 East to US-641 North, then merging onto I-40 West. The drive to Jackson-Madison County General Hospital, a larger regional facility, can take between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This extended travel time can significantly impact the feasibility of frequent appointments, such as those required for chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Further afield, Nashville, TN, offers a wider array of specialized cancer centers. The journey, however, is a considerable undertaking. The most direct route involves taking I-40 East, a drive of approximately 120 miles. This commute typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours. This lengthy travel time underscores the importance of considering the potential burden on patients and their families, especially during periods of illness and treatment.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public **transportation** options in Mansfield are extremely limited. Henry County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or cannot afford the cost of private **transportation**.

The absence of public **transportation** disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. Without readily available public transit, these individuals may face significant challenges in attending medical appointments, accessing support services, and obtaining timely treatment. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing public **transportation** further exacerbates the difficulties for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as early morning appointments or late-night discharges, can also significantly increase the cost of **transportation**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. However, the availability of medical **transportation** services in Mansfield and the surrounding areas is limited. The cost of these services can also be a significant financial burden for patients. Researching available providers, such as First Medical Transport or Care Ride, is crucial.

**Support Services and Resources:**

Beyond the practicalities of **transportation**, access to support services is critical for individuals navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. Support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs can help patients cope with the emotional, psychological, and financial challenges associated with the disease.

The Henry County Medical Center in Paris offers some support services, but the availability of specialized resources may be limited. Patients may need to travel to Jackson or Nashville to access a wider range of support programs, further increasing the **transportation** burden. The American Cancer Society and the Susan G. Komen Foundation offer resources and support networks, including information on financial assistance and **transportation** options.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors analyzed, the Breast Cancer Score for Mansfield, TN (ZIP Code 38236), reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. While the Henry County Medical Center in Paris provides a local option, the need for travel to larger cities for specialized care, coupled with the limited public **transportation** options, presents significant challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services can create barriers to timely care. The lack of readily available support services within the immediate community further complicates the situation.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the Breast Cancer Score for Mansfield requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public **transportation** options, even on a limited basis, would significantly enhance **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized rides for medical appointments could also help alleviate the financial burden.

Increasing the availability of medical **transportation** services and expanding the range of support services offered locally would further improve the situation. Promoting awareness of available resources and providing information on financial assistance programs is also crucial.

**Moving to Mansfield:**

For individuals considering **moving to Mansfield**, it is essential to factor in the **transportation** challenges associated with accessing healthcare. Prospective residents should carefully assess their personal **transportation** needs and consider the potential impact of travel time on their ability to receive timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. Researching available healthcare providers, support services, and **transportation** options before making a move is highly recommended. The decision to **move to Mansfield** should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape and a proactive plan for navigating the logistical hurdles.