39063, Durant, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39063, Durant, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.39 percent of residents in 39063 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holmes County Hospital And Clinics with a distance of 9.01 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Durant, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39063)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of summer in Durant, Mississippi, a small town nestled in Holmes County. For residents, the rhythms of life are intertwined with the land, the close-knit community, and the ever-present reality of **healthcare access**. Understanding the challenges of navigating the **transportation** landscape is crucial, especially when facing a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This write-up aims to illuminate the complexities of accessing lung cancer care for those residing in ZIP code 39063, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the availability and accessibility of various **transportation** options. This information is critical for anyone **moving to Durant** or already living there, especially those with or at risk for lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the **transportation** infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals needing lung cancer treatment and support.

The primary hurdle for residents of Durant is the lack of immediate access to specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. The most direct route to Jackson, Mississippi, the state's capital and home to several major hospitals, involves a drive of approximately 90 miles.

The journey to Jackson primarily utilizes Interstate 55 (I-55) South, a major north-south artery. The initial leg of the trip involves navigating local roads, including Highway 12, which connects Durant to I-55. Traffic conditions can vary, particularly during peak hours, potentially extending the drive time. Expect approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of travel time, without accounting for traffic.

The drive to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a leading healthcare provider, from Durant typically takes around the same time. The route utilizes I-55 South. While I-55 provides a relatively smooth and direct path, the distance and potential traffic congestion remain significant factors.

Another option for cancer care might involve travel to the city of Grenada, located approximately 50 miles north of Durant. The journey involves taking Highway 12 East to Highway 7 South. While the drive is shorter, the available healthcare options in Grenada are limited compared to Jackson.

Public **transportation** options in Durant are severely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the town. The absence of reliable public **transportation** significantly restricts **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor in the "Lung Cancer Score," as it disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities. The lack of public **transportation** is a significant impediment to **healthcare access** for those **moving to Durant**.

ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit would be nonexistent. The lack of public transit creates a significant barrier for those seeking lung cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Durant area, but their availability is often inconsistent. The frequency of service can vary significantly, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not ideal, as it can be expensive and unreliable. The unpredictability of ride-sharing services adds another layer of complexity to the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services are typically reserved for individuals who require medical assistance during transport. The cost of medical **transportation** can be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans. This adds another layer of financial burden to the already stressful situation of dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Durant, Mississippi, is, therefore, significantly impacted by the limitations in **transportation**. The lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical **transportation** all contribute to a challenging environment for accessing lung cancer care.

For individuals **moving to Durant** or already residing there, the following considerations are crucial:

* **Personal Vehicle:** Owning and maintaining a reliable vehicle is essential.
* **Family and Friends:** Relying on family and friends for **transportation** support is often necessary.
* **Financial Planning:** Budgeting for **transportation** costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential ride-sharing expenses, is critical.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verifying insurance coverage for medical **transportation** services is essential.
* **Proactive Planning:** Scheduling appointments in advance and allowing ample time for travel is crucial.
* **Advocacy:** Supporting efforts to improve public **transportation** options and **healthcare access** within the community is vital.

The "Lung Cancer Score" in Durant highlights the urgent need for improved **healthcare access** and **transportation** infrastructure. While the community offers a sense of belonging, the challenges of navigating the **transportation** landscape can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The lack of readily available, affordable, and reliable **transportation** options creates a significant barrier to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Addressing these **transportation** limitations is essential to improving the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensuring that residents of Durant have equitable access to the healthcare they deserve. The challenges faced by those **moving to Durant** are significant.