39574, Saucier, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39574, Saucier, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.43 percent of residents in 39574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Gulfport with a distance of 10.72 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saucier, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39574)

The air hangs thick and humid in Saucier, Mississippi, a small community nestled in Harrison County. For residents of ZIP code 39574, the journey to healthcare, particularly for something as serious as a lung cancer diagnosis, presents a unique set of challenges. This Lung Cancer Score assesses the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities, considering the intricate web of transportation options available. It’s a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Saucier, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions or a family history of lung cancer.

The score delves beyond mere proximity, evaluating drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. It also considers the presence of ADA-compliant transportation to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for those facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis.

**The Road to Diagnosis and Treatment:**

The primary concern for residents of 39574 is the relatively limited healthcare infrastructure within the immediate vicinity. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in Biloxi and Gulfport, requiring travel. The primary artery connecting Saucier to these healthcare hubs is **Highway 49**, a major thoroughfare that can experience significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

A typical drive to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, a facility with oncology services, averages around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily utilizes Highway 49, with potential for delays at intersections and during periods of heavy rainfall. For those seeking specialized care at the Singing River Health System in Biloxi, the drive time is similar, requiring travel on Highway 49 and potentially the **I-10** interstate, which can add to the commute depending on the specific destination.

The condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also contribute to the challenges of transportation. These factors can exacerbate the discomfort for patients undergoing treatment and potentially impact the speed and safety of travel, especially during medical emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Saucier are severely limited. The Harrison County Transit Authority (HCTA) provides some bus services, but these routes are infrequent and do not offer direct connections to major medical facilities. The routes are designed to serve the broader needs of the community, not specifically catering to the demands of healthcare access.

The HCTA operates on a fixed-route system, with limited stops and operating hours. Ridership is relatively low, and the routes may not be readily accessible from all parts of the 39574 ZIP code. Furthermore, the frequency of service is not conducive to timely medical appointments, especially for those requiring frequent visits for treatment.

While the HCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the limited service area and infrequent schedules pose significant challenges. The lack of direct routes to cancer centers necessitates multiple transfers, further increasing travel time and complexity.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: The Alternatives:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Saucier area, offering a more flexible transportation option compared to public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and Acadian Ambulance Service provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are often equipped with trained personnel and specialized vehicles, but they can be expensive and may require pre-booking.

The availability of medical transport services is crucial for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, the need to schedule these services in advance and the associated costs can create additional stress for patients.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Summary:**

The Lung Cancer Score for residents of 39574 reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant barriers to care. The drive times to medical facilities in Biloxi and Gulfport, primarily utilizing Highway 49, can be substantial, and traffic congestion can further delay travel.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides a degree of flexibility, but their cost and inconsistent availability pose limitations. Medical transport services offer a specialized solution, but they are often expensive and require pre-booking. The lack of direct public transit routes to cancer centers and the limited ADA-compliant transportation options exacerbate the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Moving to Saucier: A Consideration:**

For individuals considering moving to Saucier, Mississippi, particularly those with pre-existing respiratory conditions or a family history of lung cancer, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access. The limited transportation options necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential healthcare needs.

Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare services in the area, including the locations of cancer centers and the transportation options available. It is also essential to assess the cost of transportation and the availability of medical transport services.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access in Saucier, providing a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape and its impact on individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. It emphasizes the need for proactive planning and the importance of considering the challenges of accessing healthcare in this rural community.