39175, Utica, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39175, Utica, Mississippi is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.94 percent of residents in 39175 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 23.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Utica, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39175)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and reliable healthcare access. For residents of Utica, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39175), the ability to reach qualified medical professionals is paramount, especially considering the potential for time-sensitive diagnoses and treatments. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community, focusing on the critical element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Utica.

The primary challenge for Utica residents is its relative isolation. Situated in Hinds County, the town is geographically distant from major medical centers. This distance significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as travel time directly affects the speed with which individuals can access vital diagnostic and treatment services. The efficiency and availability of transportation options are therefore key determinants of this score.

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Utica is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Utica to larger population centers and medical facilities are Highway 18 and Highway 27. Driving to Jackson, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare resources, involves navigating these highways. The drive, covering approximately 30 miles, typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive-time represents a moderate challenge, especially in the event of an emergency or the need for frequent appointments.

The drive along Highway 18 offers a relatively straightforward route, though the road can be prone to congestion during peak hours. Highway 27, while providing an alternative, might involve navigating more rural roads, potentially adding to travel time and increasing the risk of encountering unforeseen delays. The condition of these roads is generally well-maintained, but inclement weather, such as heavy rain or fog, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Public transportation options are severely limited in Utica and the surrounding areas. There are no readily available public bus routes serving the town, meaning residents are almost entirely reliant on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. This lack of public transit significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score, as it restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive, or cannot afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership. The absence of public transit also disproportionately affects elderly residents and those with disabilities.

The absence of public transportation necessitates a reliance on alternative modes of transportation, such as ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft operate in the Jackson metropolitan area, but their availability in Utica can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in the evenings. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent appointments or treatments. The unpredictable availability and potentially high costs of ride-sharing further diminish the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies, such as First Medical Transport and American Medical Response, provide medical transportation services in the Jackson area. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of transportation options is another critical consideration. While medical transportation services are typically ADA-compliant, the lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. The absence of accessible transportation options further contributes to a lower Lung Cancer Score, emphasizing the need for improved accessibility for all residents.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of local healthcare facilities. While Utica itself may have limited medical services, the proximity to Jackson offers access to a wider range of healthcare providers, including oncologists, pulmonologists, and specialized treatment centers. The ability to reach these facilities, however, is contingent on reliable transportation. The lack of local healthcare options underscores the importance of efficient transportation to access necessary care.

The cost of transportation is a significant factor influencing the Lung Cancer Score. The expenses associated with owning and operating a personal vehicle, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, can be substantial. The cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can also be a burden, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. The financial implications of transportation further exacerbate the challenges of healthcare access.

The availability of support networks, such as family and friends, can also influence the Lung Cancer Score. Individuals with strong support networks may be able to rely on others for transportation assistance, mitigating some of the transportation challenges. However, this reliance on personal networks is not always feasible or sustainable, highlighting the need for more robust and accessible transportation options.

The Lung Cancer Score for Utica, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39175) is moderate, primarily due to the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited availability of public transportation, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation. The drive-time to Jackson, while manageable, can be a barrier, particularly in emergencies or for frequent appointments. The lack of public transit and the potential financial burden of transportation services further reduce the score.

Improving the Lung Cancer Score for Utica requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, such as expanding bus routes or establishing a demand-response transportation system, would significantly improve healthcare access. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could also alleviate some of the financial burdens. Increasing the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would further enhance the score.

For anyone considering moving to Utica, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. While the community offers a close-knit atmosphere, the challenges of healthcare access must be carefully considered. The Lung Cancer Score, reflecting the transportation realities, underscores the need for proactive planning and awareness.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic measure. It reflects the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the unique needs of the community. By addressing the transportation challenges and promoting accessible healthcare options, Utica can improve its Lung Cancer Score and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective care.