39443, Laurel, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39443, Laurel, Mississippi is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.97 percent of residents in 39443 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Central Reg Med Ctr with a distance of 7.73 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Laurel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39443)**

The diagnosis of lung cancer, a formidable adversary, necessitates swift and dependable access to healthcare. For residents of Laurel, Mississippi, specifically within the 39443 ZIP code, the journey to receive treatment and support is a critical element of their overall well-being. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical facilities, thereby contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the accessibility of healthcare within this community.

The primary determinant of healthcare access is the proximity of specialized care. In Laurel, Jones County, and the surrounding region, the closest comprehensive oncology services are centered around South Central Regional Medical Center (SCRMC), located at 1420 Jefferson Street, Laurel, MS 39440. This location serves as the central hub for cancer treatment, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The most common mode of transportation for residents of 39443 to SCRMC is by personal vehicle. The drive time is generally quite favorable, with most trips taking under 15 minutes. The route is straightforward. Residents typically embark on their journey via US-84 East, a major thoroughfare traversing the city. The hospital is easily accessible from US-84 East, requiring a turn onto Jefferson Street.

Alternatively, residents living closer to the western edges of the ZIP code might find it more convenient to utilize MS-15 South. This route also leads directly to Jefferson Street, with the hospital readily visible. Traffic congestion is generally minimal, contributing to the efficiency of the commute. The absence of significant bottlenecks ensures that patients can arrive at their appointments with minimal delay.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options are limited in Laurel. The city's public transit system is not extensive. There are no fixed-route buses that directly serve SCRMC. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, especially individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive due to their health condition.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The absence of robust public transit services in Laurel presents a challenge for those with disabilities. The city's public transit system, though limited, would ideally incorporate ADA-compliant features on all routes. However, the current lack of routes to SCRMC makes this a moot point. This necessitates exploring alternative transportation solutions to ensure equal access to healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Laurel, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles. The availability of these services can vary depending on demand and driver availability. Patients should plan their rides in advance, particularly for appointments at SCRMC.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide a crucial lifeline. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and others operating in the region provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking, allowing patients to secure reliable transportation to and from their appointments.

**Medical Transport Brands and Services:**

Several medical transport brands serve Laurel and the surrounding areas. These services cater to various needs, from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance. When considering these options, it is important to inquire about the type of vehicle, the level of medical support provided, and any associated costs.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 39443 is influenced by the accessibility of healthcare services. The favorable drive times to SCRMC, primarily via US-84 East and MS-15 South, contribute positively to the score. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services introduce complexities.

**Moving to Laurel: Transportation Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Laurel, especially those with a history of or risk factors for lung cancer, transportation considerations are paramount. While the drive times to SCRMC are generally favorable, the lack of robust public transit necessitates careful planning.

**Conclusion:**

The accessibility of healthcare in Laurel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39443) is a mixed bag. The ease of driving to SCRMC via US-84 East and MS-15 South is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects this reality, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and utilization of available resources to ensure timely and dependable access to healthcare.