39191, Wesson, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39191, Wesson, Mississippi is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.87 percent of residents in 39191 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is King's Daughters Medical Center-Brookhaven with a distance of 9.00 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wesson, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39191)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis can be daunting, and timely access to specialized care is paramount. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access for residents of Wesson, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39191), focusing on transportation options to and from medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this vital area. This information is critical for anyone considering **moving to Wesson**, or already residing there, and seeking to understand their **healthcare access** options.

Wesson, a small town nestled in Copiah County, Mississippi, presents a unique set of circumstances regarding **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The availability and efficiency of travel options directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The geographic realities of the area, coupled with limited public transit, necessitate a detailed examination of all available modes of transport.

The primary consideration is the distance to specialized medical centers. The closest facilities capable of handling lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are generally located in larger cities like Jackson, approximately 70 miles to the north, and McComb, around 40 miles to the south.

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transport for most residents. The primary routes to Jackson involve traveling north on Interstate 55 (I-55). The drive, under normal traffic conditions, can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and thirty minutes. This estimate can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours or in the event of accidents. The route to McComb primarily utilizes US Highway 51. The drive is shorter, generally taking around 45 minutes to an hour, offering a potentially quicker route to specialized care. However, traffic conditions can still impact travel times.

Secondary routes may involve using local roads and highways, such as Mississippi Highway 51, which runs through Wesson. While these routes might offer scenic alternatives, they typically add to the overall travel time and may not be suitable for patients requiring urgent medical attention. The condition of these secondary roads can also vary, further impacting travel times and patient comfort.

Public transportation options are limited in Wesson and Copiah County. The availability of public transit, especially for those without personal vehicles, is a significant factor in **healthcare access**. There are no established bus routes or public transportation systems that directly serve Wesson. The lack of public transport significantly impacts those who are unable to drive, including elderly residents or individuals with disabilities. This gap in services can present a major barrier to accessing specialized lung cancer care.

For individuals with disabilities, the absence of public transit presents a substantial challenge. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation, but the lack of such services in Wesson leaves this population with limited options. The burden falls on family, friends, or private transportation services.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in Wesson, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The distance to Jackson or McComb translates into potentially high transportation expenses, adding to the financial burden of a lung cancer diagnosis.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with travel to and from medical appointments. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with ambulatory needs.

Companies like First Transit or Medical Transport, though not necessarily based in Wesson, may serve the area. Booking and scheduling these services require advance planning. The cost of NEMT services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific services offered.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is another critical aspect of healthcare access. In the event of a medical emergency, the response time of EMS can be crucial. The response time in Wesson depends on the location of the emergency and the availability of ambulances and trained personnel. The distance to the nearest hospital with emergency services, such as King's Daughters Medical Center in Brookhaven, approximately 15 miles away, can impact the overall response time.

The overall **Lung Cancer Score** for Wesson, considering the factors discussed, reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers for some residents.

For individuals considering **moving to Wesson**, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is essential. This should include evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The future of **healthcare access** in Wesson may involve exploring opportunities to improve transportation options. This could include advocating for expanded public transit services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments, or supporting the expansion of medical transportation services in the area. The goal is to ensure that all residents of Wesson have equitable access to the specialized care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.

Ultimately, the success of navigating the challenges of healthcare access in Wesson depends on a combination of individual preparedness, community support, and ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services. This write-up aims to provide a clear picture of the current situation, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the future.