39094, Lena, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39094, Lena, Mississippi is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.69 percent of residents in 39094 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Leake with a distance of 12.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lena, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39094)

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical element of the overall well-being and prognosis. This report assesses the transportation landscape in and around Lena, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39094), providing a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the accessibility of vital medical resources. We'll delve into the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical transport, considering drive times, route complexities, and accessibility features. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Lena or those already residing in the area, aiming to understand the practical realities of accessing potentially life-saving care.

The Lung Cancer Score considers factors beyond simple distance. It incorporates the availability of transportation options, the ease of navigation, the presence of ADA-compliant services, and the overall time commitment required to reach key healthcare facilities. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, potentially improving patient outcomes by reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment. This score is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a practical guide to understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within the community.

**The Road to Care: Personal Vehicles and Drive Times**

For many residents of Lena, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The town is situated in a relatively rural area, and understanding drive times to relevant healthcare facilities is crucial. The primary artery for travel is **Highway 35**, which runs north-south, connecting Lena to larger towns and cities. Heading south on Highway 35 offers access to medical facilities in nearby Carthage, the county seat. This drive is generally straightforward, taking approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Carthage.

Traveling north on Highway 35 provides access to facilities in Kosciusko, approximately an hour's drive. Kosciusko boasts a larger hospital and a wider range of specialist services. The route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays could arise due to traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Jackson, the state's capital, which is approximately a 1.5- to 2-hour drive south via **Highway 35** and connecting highways like **Highway 25** and **Interstate 20**. Jackson offers comprehensive cancer treatment centers, including radiation therapy and surgical oncology. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Lena are limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public bus system. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their condition or other limitations. The absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

While there may be informal or community-based transportation services, their reliability and accessibility are not consistently documented. The lack of a structured public transit system, with its potential for fixed routes, scheduled stops, and ADA-compliant features, poses a barrier to healthcare access for a vulnerable population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, including Jackson. However, their availability in Lena and the surrounding rural areas is likely limited. The cost and reliability of ride-sharing services can be a concern for individuals facing financial constraints.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like **AMR (American Medical Response)** and **Priority Ambulance** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are typically pre-booked and can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the cost can be substantial, and the availability may be limited depending on the demand and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Medical Transport Brands: Specifics**

Several medical transport brands operate in Mississippi, including **MedStar Ambulance** and **LifeGuard Ambulance Service**. These services offer varying levels of care, from basic transportation to advanced life support. The availability and coverage areas for these services in Lena need to be confirmed through direct inquiries.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor in assessing the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles for medical transport is essential. Furthermore, the accessibility of medical facilities, including parking, entrances, waiting areas, and examination rooms, is paramount.

**Moving to Lena: A Healthcare Access Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Lena, the transportation landscape is a significant factor to consider. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited access to public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for healthcare access. Individuals with lung cancer or other chronic illnesses should carefully evaluate the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of medical transport services, and the potential costs associated with transportation.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Summary**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 39094 is moderate. While the drive times to healthcare facilities in Carthage and Kosciusko are relatively manageable, the lack of public transportation and the potential reliance on costly medical transport services lower the score. The availability of ride-sharing services is limited, and the accessibility of medical facilities needs to be confirmed.

**Recommendations:**

* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research and identify reputable medical transport services that serve the Lena area. Inquire about costs, insurance coverage, and availability.
* **Plan for Travel Time:** Factor in travel time to medical appointments, considering potential delays due to traffic or weather.
* **Investigate Community Resources:** Explore any local community programs or volunteer services that may offer transportation assistance to medical appointments.
* **Assess Facility Accessibility:** Confirm that the chosen healthcare facilities are ADA-compliant and offer accessible parking, entrances, and waiting areas.
* **Consider Location:** If moving to Lena, carefully consider the proximity to medical facilities and the availability of transportation options.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Lena requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking access to medical care. By understanding the available resources, planning for transportation needs, and advocating for improved healthcare access, residents can enhance their overall well-being and improve their chances of a positive outcome. The journey to healthcare is a critical component of the fight against lung cancer, and a well-informed approach to transportation is a vital step in that journey.