The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39191, Wesson, Mississippi is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
58.87 percent of residents in 39191 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is King's Daughters Medical Center-Brookhaven with a distance of 9.00 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 39191, Wesson, Mississippi
Prostate Cancer Score | 7 |
---|---|
People Score | 42 |
Provider Score | 21 |
Hospital Score | 18 |
Travel Score | 27 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 39191 | Wesson | Mississippi |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.24 | 0.24 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 11.05 | 11.05 | 19.38 |
2 Cars | 41.52 | 41.52 | 39.26 |
3 or More Cars | 47.20 | 47.20 | 39.21 |
Vehicular Access in 39191, Wesson, Mississippi
## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wesson, MS (ZIP Code 39191)
The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis can loom large, a stark reminder of the importance of proactive healthcare. For residents of Wesson, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39191), the reality of healthcare access, specifically for prostate cancer screening and treatment, is intricately woven with the threads of transportation. Understanding the landscape of getting to and from appointments is crucial, as it directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive “Prostate Cancer Score” for the area, considering transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.
Wesson, a small town nestled in Copiah County, offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The town’s relative remoteness necessitates a reliance on various transportation methods to reach specialized medical facilities, making transportation a central factor in the overall "score."
**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**
For many, the most common method of transportation is the personal vehicle. The primary artery connecting Wesson to larger population centers with advanced medical facilities is **Interstate 55 (I-55)**. Heading north on I-55 provides access to Jackson, the state's capital and home to major medical centers like the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) and St. Dominic Hospital. The drive is approximately 70 miles, and under ideal conditions, it takes about an hour and fifteen minutes.
Southbound on I-55 offers access to Brookhaven, a closer option with a smaller hospital, King's Daughters Medical Center. The drive to Brookhaven is a much shorter trip, around 15 miles, and takes approximately 20 minutes. This proximity makes it a more accessible option for routine check-ups and initial screenings.
However, relying solely on I-55 is not always feasible. Local roads, such as **Highway 51** and **Highway 84**, provide alternative routes, though they often involve slower speeds and increased travel times. These routes can be crucial when I-55 experiences traffic congestion or closures due to accidents or construction. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can further complicate travel.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in Wesson and Copiah County are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly connects Wesson to Jackson or Brookhaven. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The absence of public transit emphasizes the importance of other transportation alternatives.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in the more rural areas surrounding Wesson. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **First Transit** and **LogistiCare** often contract with healthcare providers and insurance companies to provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of these services, and the areas they serve, should be carefully investigated.
**ADA Accessibility Considerations**
For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is a critical factor. The lack of public transit with ADA-compliant features poses a significant challenge. Ride-sharing services often offer accessible vehicles, but availability is not guaranteed. Medical transportation services are generally required to provide accessible vehicles, but it is essential to confirm this when scheduling appointments.
**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**
Beyond transportation, other factors influence healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists in the Wesson area is crucial. While Brookhaven offers some local medical services, specialized care, such as urology, often necessitates travel to Jackson or other larger cities. The distance and transportation challenges can lead to delays in seeking care, potentially impacting the prognosis of prostate cancer.
**Moving to Wesson: A Healthcare Perspective**
For individuals considering moving to Wesson, understanding the healthcare landscape is essential. While the town offers a peaceful and close-knit community, prospective residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare services. Those with existing health conditions, or a family history of prostate cancer, should prioritize proximity to medical facilities and reliable transportation options.
**Prostate Cancer Score: A Summary**
Based on the factors discussed, the “Prostate Cancer Score” for Wesson, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39191) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, heavily influenced by transportation limitations. The score is affected by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited availability of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
**Recommendations for Improvement**
* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Exploring the feasibility of a local bus route connecting Wesson to Brookhaven and Jackson would significantly enhance healthcare access.
* **Promote ride-sharing and medical transportation awareness:** Educating residents about available services and their associated costs is crucial.
* **Support telehealth initiatives:** Expanding access to telehealth services can reduce the need for travel for routine consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **Encourage local medical partnerships:** Fostering collaborations between Wesson and healthcare providers in Brookhaven and Jackson can improve access to specialized care.
By addressing these challenges and implementing proactive measures, the residents of Wesson can improve their access to prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
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