39423, Beaumont, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39423, Beaumont, Mississippi is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.49 percent of residents in 39423 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County General Hospital with a distance of 11.61 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beaumont, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39423)

The air hangs heavy and humid in Beaumont, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39423), a rural community where the rhythm of life is dictated by the ebb and flow of the Leaf River and the hum of passing eighteen-wheelers. For residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of this setting can quickly transform into a battle against time, complicated by the very fabric of their existence: **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up serves as a Lung Cancer Score assessment, a critical evaluation of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals in 39423 as they navigate their journey from diagnosis to treatment. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the landscape they must traverse. The goal is to provide clarity and empower individuals to make informed decisions, especially those considering **moving to Beaumont** or seeking care within the area.

The primary challenge for residents of 39423 is the distance to comprehensive cancer care. The nearest major medical facilities capable of providing advanced lung cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and specialized surgical procedures, are located in Hattiesburg, approximately 25 miles to the west, or Mobile, Alabama, roughly 100 miles to the south. The drive to Hattiesburg, the more accessible option, is primarily via US Highway 98, a two-lane road that can become congested during peak hours, particularly when navigating the outskirts of Hattiesburg. Traffic delays can significantly impact treatment schedules, adding stress and anxiety to an already overwhelming situation.

The journey to Hattiesburg typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, even a seemingly short drive can feel like an eternity when a patient is experiencing treatment side effects, such as nausea or fatigue. The return trip, often undertaken after a draining appointment, can be equally challenging. For those without personal vehicles, the situation becomes considerably more complex.

Public **transportation** options in 39423 are severely limited. There is no established public bus system that serves the area directly. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive, do not own a car, or are unable to secure a ride from family or friends. The absence of a reliable public transportation network underscores the critical need for alternative **transportation** solutions for those battling lung cancer.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Hattiesburg, but their presence in Beaumont is sporadic at best. The availability of these services is dependent on driver density, which is typically low in rural areas. Securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or late-night discharges, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

Medical **transportation** services, designed specifically to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for those with limited mobility or those who cannot drive. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including MedStar Ambulance Service and American Medical Response (AMR). These services typically offer both basic and advanced life support, ensuring patients receive appropriate care during transit. However, the cost of medical **transportation** can be substantial, and coverage varies depending on the patient's insurance plan. Pre-authorization is often required, and patients should carefully review their insurance policies to understand their coverage for medical **transportation** services.

For those who require frequent trips to Hattiesburg or Mobile for treatment, the financial strain of **transportation** can be overwhelming. The cost of gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, or medical **transportation** can quickly deplete a patient's resources. This financial burden can lead to treatment delays or missed appointments, which can negatively impact the patient's prognosis.

The journey to Mobile, Alabama, presents even greater challenges. The drive involves navigating US Highway 98 west to Interstate 65 south, a route that can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic. While Interstate 65 offers a faster route, the distance and potential for traffic congestion increase the risk of delays. For patients undergoing radiation therapy, which often requires daily treatments, the long commute can be particularly grueling.

The lack of readily available support services in Beaumont further exacerbates the challenges faced by lung cancer patients. Support groups, counseling services, and access to palliative care are essential components of comprehensive cancer care. The absence of these resources within the immediate community necessitates travel to Hattiesburg or Mobile, adding another layer of complexity to the patient's journey.

In the context of **moving to Beaumont**, potential residents should carefully consider the **transportation** limitations and their impact on **healthcare access**. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical care, should assess the feasibility of commuting to treatment centers. A thorough evaluation of **transportation** options, insurance coverage, and available support services is essential.

The Lung Cancer Score for 39423 reflects a challenging landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The long distances to treatment centers and the potential for **transportation** delays add to the stress and anxiety experienced by patients.

To improve the Lung Cancer Score for 39423, several interventions are necessary. Increased investment in public **transportation**, including the establishment of a bus route connecting Beaumont to Hattiesburg, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for residents. Partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized rides for cancer patients could also alleviate the financial burden of **transportation**. Expanding the availability of medical **transportation** services and increasing insurance coverage for these services would provide critical support for those with limited mobility.

Furthermore, the establishment of local support groups and counseling services would provide much-needed emotional and practical support for patients and their families. Telemedicine initiatives, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could reduce the need for frequent travel.

The Lung Cancer Score for 39423 is not a static measure. It can be improved through collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. By addressing the **transportation** and **healthcare access** challenges, the community can create a more supportive environment for individuals battling lung cancer, ensuring they receive the care they need without the added burden of navigating a complex and often overwhelming **transportation** landscape. The journey through lung cancer is arduous enough; the path to treatment should not be.