39154, Raymond, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39154, Raymond, Mississippi is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 39154 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 11.81 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Raymond, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39154)**

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and dependable healthcare access. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Raymond, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39154), evaluating its impact on a hypothetical resident's ability to reach vital medical services, particularly those specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This is crucial for anyone *moving to Raymond* or already residing there, as promptness in seeking care can dramatically influence outcomes. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport availability, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the overall accessibility of healthcare within this ZIP code.

Raymond, a charming town nestled in Hinds County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a peaceful suburban environment, its proximity to specialized medical facilities in Jackson, the state capital, dictates the necessity of reliable *transportation* options. The ability to navigate these options swiftly and efficiently is paramount for someone facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary conduit connecting Raymond to Jackson is Interstate 20 (I-20). This major thoroughfare provides a relatively straightforward route, typically requiring a 20-30 minute drive to reach the heart of Jackson, depending on traffic conditions. Exiting I-20 and navigating through Jackson to reach specific hospitals and clinics adds to the overall travel time. These hospitals include the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), St. Dominic Hospital, and Baptist Medical Center, all potential destinations for lung cancer care.

Alternative routes exist, primarily using US Highway 80. This road, while offering a more scenic drive, often experiences heavier traffic and numerous traffic lights, potentially increasing travel time, especially during peak hours. US Highway 18, running north-south through Raymond, provides another option, though it necessitates navigating through local roads to reach Jackson. For someone needing immediate care, the time saved by using I-20 is invaluable.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, must be factored into any assessment of healthcare *access*. Weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog, can further complicate travel, extending drive times and potentially hindering access to timely medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Raymond are limited. The Jackson-based public transit system, known as JATRAN, primarily serves the city of Jackson and its immediate surroundings. While JATRAN may offer some routes that extend towards the outskirts of Jackson, their reach into Raymond is extremely limited. The availability of bus stops and the frequency of service are major concerns for residents of Raymond relying on public transit.

The lack of readily available public *transportation* poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. For those with mobility issues, the absence of adequate ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)-compliant features on any potential routes would further exacerbate the difficulties in accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Raymond area. However, their reliability and availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transport needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the Jackson area, including AMR (American Medical Response) and Acadian Ambulance Service. However, the availability of these services in Raymond and the associated costs should be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialized Care**

The nearest hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment, are located in Jackson. UMMC's Cancer Institute is a leading facility in the region, providing advanced diagnostic and treatment options. St. Dominic Hospital and Baptist Medical Center also offer oncology services. The distance to these facilities, coupled with the *transportation* challenges, highlights the importance of efficient travel for individuals in Raymond.

Access to specialized lung cancer specialists, such as pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists, is also concentrated in Jackson. The ability to quickly reach these specialists for consultations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment is critical for optimal patient outcomes. Delays in accessing these services can negatively impact the prognosis.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Weighted Assessment**

To arrive at a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 39154, we consider the following factors, weighting them based on their impact on healthcare *access*:

* **Drive Time to Jackson Hospitals (40%):** Shorter drive times receive a higher score.
* **Public Transit Availability (15%):** The presence of reliable and accessible public transit receives a higher score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability (20%):** The availability and affordability of these services receive a higher score.
* **Proximity to Specialized Care (25%):** The distance to and the availability of specialized lung cancer care facilities receive a higher score.

Based on this assessment, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 39154 is moderate. While the proximity to Jackson and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion on I-20 pose challenges. The score reflects the need for careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or readily available medical *transportation* for those seeking lung cancer care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For anyone *moving to Raymond* or residing there, the *transportation* landscape significantly impacts the ability to access crucial healthcare services, especially for a condition as time-sensitive as lung cancer. While Raymond offers a pleasant living environment, the reliance on personal vehicles or readily available ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services is essential for navigating the healthcare system. The limited public transit options underscore the need for careful consideration of *healthcare access* when evaluating this ZIP code. Understanding these *transportation* dynamics is critical for ensuring timely and effective care.