39232, Flowood, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39232, Flowood, Mississippi is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.25 percent of residents in 39232 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brentwood Behavioral Healthcare Of Ms with a distance of 0.60 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 39232**

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access in Flowood, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39232), requires a comprehensive understanding of the transportation infrastructure available. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably is crucial, especially for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis, presented as a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates the ease of access to healthcare, considering various transportation modalities. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents and those considering moving to Flowood, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary artery of movement in Flowood is Interstate 20 (I-20), running east-west and providing a direct route to major medical centers in Jackson. The drive time to University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a leading healthcare provider, typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. Another crucial route is Highway 25, also known as Lakeland Drive, which intersects with I-20 and offers access to various clinics and specialist offices.

For those without personal vehicles, the public transportation landscape presents challenges. The Jackson Transit System (JTRAN) provides limited service to Flowood. Route 15, which runs along Lakeland Drive, is the most relevant option. However, service frequency is often low, and the routes do not always align with the hours of operation of healthcare facilities. ADA-accessible buses are available, enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The reliance on JTRAN for healthcare access in Flowood, therefore, is not ideal.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, albeit a potentially costly one. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride to UMMC or other medical facilities can be a significant financial burden, especially for those with limited incomes or frequent appointments. Medical transportation services, like MedRide and First Transit, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. However, they often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria.

The Lung Cancer Score considers several factors. Drive times to major medical centers, such as UMMC, are weighted heavily. The reliability and frequency of public transportation, the affordability and availability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options are also assessed. The overall score reflects the ease with which residents of 39232 can access necessary healthcare services.

The proximity of Flowood to Jackson, and the presence of I-20, offers a degree of advantage in terms of transportation to healthcare. However, the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing services create challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs, but their availability and eligibility requirements must be carefully considered.

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer, timely access to healthcare is paramount. Regular check-ups, diagnostic tests, and treatments are often necessary. The Lung Cancer Score aims to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities that residents of 39232 face.

The score also takes into account the availability of specialized healthcare providers, such as oncologists and pulmonologists. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance significantly improves the score. The quality of care offered at these facilities is also considered, ensuring that residents have access to high-quality medical services.

The economic factors are also relevant. The cost of transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for low-income individuals. The Lung Cancer Score considers the affordability of transportation options and the availability of financial assistance programs.

The geographic layout of Flowood is also considered. The location of residential areas relative to major roadways and healthcare facilities influences the ease of access. The score considers the distances between residential areas and medical facilities, as well as the availability of convenient routes.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure. It can change over time as transportation infrastructure improves, new healthcare facilities open, or new transportation services become available. The score should be viewed as a dynamic tool that can be used to inform decisions about healthcare access and to advocate for improvements in the transportation system.

The analysis also highlights the importance of planning. Individuals who are considering moving to Flowood should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. They should research the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the costs of ride-sharing services.

For those already living in Flowood, the Lung Cancer Score can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed. Residents can advocate for better public transportation service, more affordable ride-sharing options, and increased access to medical transportation services. They can also support efforts to attract new healthcare providers to the area.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 39232 is a complex evaluation. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternatives, but their costs and availability must be considered. The overall score reflects the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents of Flowood, particularly those facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. The score serves as a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike. The goal is to promote a healthier community by ensuring that everyone has access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their transportation situation.