39576, Waveland, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39576, Waveland, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.72 percent of residents in 39576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Va Gulf Coast Healthcare System with a distance of 27.33 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Waveland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39576)**

The salty air whispers through the live oaks, a constant companion in Waveland, Mississippi. Yet, beneath the idyllic coastal veneer, the specter of health concerns looms, particularly lung cancer. This write-up delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically for lung cancer treatment, within the ZIP code 39576. We’ll explore the complexities of transportation, a critical determinant of a patient’s ability to receive timely and effective care. Considering the challenges of healthcare access in the region, this information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Waveland.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing lung cancer healthcare. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents. This analysis aims to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving and Drive Times**

For many Waveland residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is by car. The journey to specialized lung cancer treatment often involves navigating the highways and roads of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The closest major healthcare hubs, offering comprehensive oncology services, are in Gulfport and Biloxi.

From Waveland, the primary artery to the west is **U.S. Highway 90**, a scenic route hugging the coastline. Driving west to Gulfport, home to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive is generally straightforward, but the potential for congestion, especially during peak hours or tourist seasons, must be considered.

To the east, **U.S. Highway 90** leads to Biloxi, where facilities like the Merit Health Biloxi offer oncology services. The drive to Biloxi is approximately 35-45 minutes, also subject to traffic fluctuations. Accessing these major facilities requires a reliable vehicle and the ability to drive, a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The interior roads, such as **Mississippi Highway 607** and **Mississippi Highway 43**, provide alternative routes, but they often involve longer travel times and may not be as well-maintained. These options are less desirable for patients requiring frequent treatments or experiencing mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Waveland and the surrounding areas is limited, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Hancock CountyHancock County Transit System (HCTS) operates within Hancock County, but its routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve major medical facilities.

The HCTS primarily focuses on local travel, and its routes may require multiple transfers to reach hospitals in Gulfport or Biloxi. This extended travel time, coupled with potential wait times, can be particularly challenging for lung cancer patients undergoing treatment. ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and lifts, are available on HCTS vehicles, but the limited service frequency remains a significant hurdle.

The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) operates throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast, including routes that may connect Waveland to Gulfport and Biloxi. However, CTA routes are often less frequent than in larger metropolitan areas, and the travel time can be considerably longer than driving. The CTA offers ADA-compliant services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Waveland area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. This unreliability can pose a significant challenge for patients needing scheduled appointments or emergency care.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, provide another layer of support. These services are specifically designed to transport patients with medical needs, including those undergoing cancer treatment.

These services can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary. The availability of medical transport is crucial, especially for patients with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Lung Cancer Score for Waveland, Mississippi (39576) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, it's not accessible to everyone. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing and medical transport services, while available, may have limitations in terms of cost, availability, and reliability.

For individuals considering moving to Waveland, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning, including securing reliable transportation, exploring insurance coverage for medical transport, and considering the proximity of healthcare facilities.

The availability of support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, can also significantly impact a patient's ability to access care. This support can provide assistance with transportation, appointment scheduling, and other essential needs.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic assessment, and its value lies in its ability to inform and empower. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions, advocate for improved healthcare access, and navigate the journey to recovery with greater confidence. The journey to better healthcare access is ongoing.