39455, Lumberton, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.49 percent of residents in 39455 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pearl River County Hospital with a distance of 10.98 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39455)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical factor in overall well-being. In Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP code 39455), a small town nestled in the heart of the Pine Belt, the accessibility of specialized medical care is a significant consideration. This analysis explores the transportation landscape, assessing the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking timely and effective treatment. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this community. For those considering moving to Lumberton, understanding these factors is paramount.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in Lumberton is Interstate 59 (I-59), which runs north-south, providing a crucial link to larger medical centers in Hattiesburg, approximately 20 miles south, and Laurel, roughly 40 miles north. These cities house the most comprehensive oncology services in the region. Access to I-59 is relatively straightforward, with several entry points within the ZIP code. Secondary roads, such as Highway 13 and Highway 11, offer alternative routes, though they often involve longer travel times and potentially more challenging driving conditions, especially during inclement weather.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary concern. Under ideal traffic conditions, the drive to Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, a major regional hospital with oncology services, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes. However, this can be significantly impacted by rush hour congestion, accidents, or construction. The journey to South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, another option, might take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the route and traffic. These drive times can be particularly challenging for patients experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or other symptoms associated with lung cancer and its treatments.

Public transportation options in Lumberton are limited. The Pine Belt Regional Transit Authority (PBRTA) provides bus services in the area, but the routes and schedules are not specifically designed to prioritize healthcare access. Service frequency is often low, and routes may not directly connect Lumberton to the primary medical facilities in Hattiesburg or Laurel. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is essential for potential users. The PBRTA website and local information centers should be consulted for the most up-to-date details.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, can offer a more flexible transportation solution. However, their presence in Lumberton is not consistently reliable. Availability often fluctuates based on driver demand and geographic coverage. Patients should not rely solely on these services for critical medical appointments, as delays or cancellations can significantly disrupt treatment schedules. Pre-booking rides well in advance is highly recommended, and having backup transportation plans is essential.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution for patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Researching and contacting multiple providers, such as First Transit or LogistiCare, is crucial to determine the best options for individual needs and financial constraints.

For individuals considering moving to Lumberton, the transportation landscape is a crucial element in evaluating healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and the drive times to specialized medical facilities can be substantial. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the picture.

The Lung Cancer Score for Lumberton, Mississippi, reflects these realities. It emphasizes the importance of careful planning, proactive transportation arrangements, and a thorough understanding of the available resources. Patients and their families must develop comprehensive transportation strategies, including identifying reliable drivers, exploring medical transportation options, and having contingency plans for unexpected circumstances. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring timely access to potentially life-saving treatments.

The healthcare access landscape in Lumberton, Mississippi, presents both challenges and opportunities. While the drive times to major medical centers can be significant, the availability of various transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, offers some flexibility. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and proactive transportation arrangements.

For those considering moving to Lumberton, a thorough assessment of transportation needs and healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should research the availability and reliability of transportation options, identify local medical facilities, and familiarize themselves with the services offered by medical transportation providers. This proactive approach will help ensure that individuals can access the healthcare they need, when they need it, and can contribute to a positive quality of life in this Pine Belt community.