39507, Gulfport, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39507, Gulfport, Mississippi is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.85 percent of residents in 39507 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Gulfport with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

The air hangs thick and salty in Gulfport, Mississippi, ZIP Code 39507, a place where the rhythmic crash of waves against the shore provides a constant soundtrack to life. But beneath the surface of sun-drenched beaches and vibrant culture lies a critical concern: lung cancer. This write-up, a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, explores the realities of healthcare access for residents of 39507, focusing specifically on the critical element of **transportation**. This is especially pertinent for those considering **moving to Gulfport**, where the ease of reaching vital medical services can significantly impact quality of life, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' here isn't a numerical metric. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment of the challenges and opportunities surrounding access to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the context of **transportation** options. The goal is to provide a clear understanding for residents and potential newcomers.

For residents of 39507, the journey to **healthcare access** begins on the roads. The primary arteries for movement are Interstate 10 (I-10), running east-west, and U.S. Highway 49, a major north-south thoroughfare. These highways are crucial for accessing specialized medical facilities, including those equipped to handle lung cancer cases. Drive times, however, can vary considerably depending on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions.

Consider a scenario: a resident of the eastern edge of 39507, perhaps near the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, needs to reach a pulmonologist located at Memorial Hospital at Gulfport. During peak rush hour, a trip that might take 15-20 minutes on a clear day via U.S. Highway 90 (a coastal route) could easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, or even longer if there's an accident on I-10. The same trip, originating from the western side of the ZIP code, might involve navigating congested areas near the Keesler Air Force Base, further extending the commute.

The availability of public **transportation** is another key factor in our 'Lung Cancer Score'. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast, including routes that serve 39507. The CTA operates a network of fixed routes, with some routes offering connections to medical facilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

For example, a resident needing to travel from their home near the Gulfport Sportsplex to a clinic on Pass Road might rely on Route 1, which runs along U.S. Highway 90. While the route provides a direct connection, the bus might only run hourly or less frequently. This can be a significant barrier for individuals undergoing treatment, requiring frequent appointments, or experiencing fatigue.

The CTA also strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is crucial for lung cancer patients who may have mobility limitations or require assistance. However, the availability of ADA-compliant buses on all routes, at all times, cannot always be guaranteed. The reliability of the CTA is a factor, as delays and route adjustments can impact **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to public **transportation** and personal vehicles. These services can be particularly useful for those unable to drive or who prefer not to navigate traffic. The availability of ride-sharing in 39507 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can add to the financial burden of medical appointments.

Moreover, the availability of ride-sharing drivers who are familiar with medical facilities and are comfortable assisting patients with mobility issues can vary. This is a crucial consideration for lung cancer patients who may require assistance getting in and out of vehicles or navigating clinic hallways.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, provide a specialized option for patients needing assistance. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public **transportation**, and insurance coverage can vary.

Companies like First Transit and Medical Transport of America may be available in the area, but the specific coverage and availability of these services within 39507 need to be confirmed. The process of arranging medical transport, including scheduling, verifying insurance, and coordinating with medical providers, can also add to the stress and complexity of **healthcare access**.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for 39507, therefore, is nuanced. While the presence of major highways like I-10 and U.S. 49 offers a degree of accessibility, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create challenges. For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, these challenges can be significant, potentially impacting their ability to receive timely and consistent care.

The distance to specialized cancer centers, such as those in Mobile, Alabama, or New Orleans, Louisiana, further compounds the **transportation** issue. These trips, which might be necessary for advanced treatments or clinical trials, require significantly longer travel times, adding to the physical and emotional strain on patients and their families. The availability of lodging near these centers is also a factor, adding to the financial burden.

The availability of support services within 39507, such as support groups, counseling, and palliative care, is another crucial component of the 'Lung Cancer Score'. Access to these services can help patients manage the physical and emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment. However, the **transportation** limitations can also affect access to these support networks.

For someone **moving to Gulfport** and considering the implications of lung cancer, the 'Lung Cancer Score' highlights the importance of careful planning. Researching the availability of medical facilities, understanding the public **transportation** options, and assessing the cost and reliability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services are essential steps. Proximity to major highways and access to support services should also be considered.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for 39507 reveals a complex picture. While the area offers access to some medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the cost of alternative options create significant challenges for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Addressing these challenges through improved public **transportation**, expanded ride-sharing options, and affordable medical **transportation** services is critical to ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents of 39507.