39204, Jackson, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39204, Jackson, Mississippi is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.77 percent of residents in 39204 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 1.60 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 39204

The heart of Jackson, Mississippi, pulses within ZIP code 39204, a vibrant tapestry woven with history, community, and the everyday realities of life. For residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the accessibility of timely and quality healthcare is paramount. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the critical factor of transportation, evaluating the journey to healthcare facilities from various points within 39204. It provides a nuanced understanding of drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately shaping a clear picture of healthcare access in this community.

Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Lung cancer treatment often involves frequent appointments: diagnostic scans, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. These appointments can be physically and emotionally taxing. Efficient and reliable transportation is not just a convenience; it's a vital component of patient well-being and treatment adherence.

The primary healthcare hubs for lung cancer care in the Jackson area include the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), St. Dominic Hospital, and Baptist Medical Center. Evaluating transportation options necessitates considering the proximity of these facilities to different areas within 39204.

**Driving the Distance: A Personal Vehicle Perspective**

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation. From the heart of 39204, accessing UMMC, located just north of the ZIP code, is generally straightforward. Residents near State Street can utilize it directly, merging onto North State Street, then turning onto Woodrow Wilson Avenue to access the medical center. The drive is typically under 10 minutes, barring heavy traffic.

Heading to St. Dominic Hospital, located on Lakeland Drive, involves a slightly longer journey. Residents in the southern portion of 39204 can take I-55 North, exiting onto Lakeland Drive. The drive, depending on traffic, can take between 15 to 25 minutes. Those residing closer to the I-55 corridor will have an advantage, experiencing shorter commute times.

Baptist Medical Center, situated on North State Street, is easily accessible from various points within 39204. Residents can utilize State Street, or take the I-55 North to North State Street exit. The drive time is usually between 10 to 15 minutes.

Traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. The intersection of State Street and Woodrow Wilson Avenue is particularly prone to congestion. Similarly, the I-55 corridor can become heavily congested during rush hour. Individuals moving to Jackson, particularly those with lung cancer, must factor in these variables when selecting a residence.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City's Arteries**

The Jackson Transit System (JATRAN) provides public transit within the city. However, the system's coverage and frequency can present challenges for individuals needing frequent medical appointments. Route 1, which runs along State Street, offers a crucial connection to UMMC. Route 13, traversing Northside Drive, provides access to Baptist Medical Center.

Unfortunately, the frequency of these routes can be a barrier. Waiting times between buses can be significant, potentially adding considerable time to the journey. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. JATRAN's website and customer service should be consulted to confirm the availability of these features on specific routes and at particular stops.

The lack of direct routes to St. Dominic Hospital presents a significant challenge. Passengers utilizing public transit must often transfer, adding to the overall travel time and complexity. This situation emphasizes the need for careful planning and potentially the assistance of a caregiver.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for transfers and potentially reducing overall travel time. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. While these services can be a valuable resource, they can also be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability of these services within 39204 is generally good. However, it's essential to book rides in advance, especially during peak hours or for early morning appointments. Individuals should also inquire about insurance coverage for medical transportation services, as this can significantly reduce the financial burden.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 39204 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While UMMC is easily accessible via driving and public transit, the access to St. Dominic Hospital and Baptist Medical Center presents more significant challenges. The reliability of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transportation services are all critical considerations.

The score is not a static number, but a dynamic assessment influenced by individual circumstances. For individuals with a personal vehicle, access to healthcare is generally good, provided they account for traffic congestion. For those relying on public transit, careful planning and the potential need for assistance are essential. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer viable alternatives, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Jackson and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation are paramount. Thorough research, including exploring specific routes, costs, and ADA accessibility features, is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a starting point, encouraging a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape and ultimately empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.