39327, Decatur, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39327, Decatur, Mississippi is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.84 percent of residents in 39327 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Laird Hospital with a distance of 9.47 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Decatur, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39327)

The sun beats down on Decatur, Mississippi, a town etched with the quiet rhythms of rural life. For men facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, the serenity can quickly fade, replaced by the pressing need for timely healthcare. Understanding the nuances of transportation within and around ZIP Code 39327 is crucial, as **healthcare access** directly impacts treatment outcomes and overall well-being. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of **transportation** options, drive times, and accessibility to medical facilities specializing in prostate cancer care. It is also a valuable resource for individuals **moving to Decatur**, offering insights into navigating the healthcare landscape.

The primary challenge in Decatur, like many rural communities, is geographical distance. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located outside the immediate vicinity. This reality underscores the importance of understanding commute times and available transportation. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers these factors, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The cornerstone of transportation in Decatur is the automobile. The primary routes for accessing specialized prostate cancer care involve driving. The most direct route to Meridian, Mississippi, approximately 30 miles east, is via US-80. Expect a drive time of roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This route is generally well-maintained, but occasional delays can occur due to construction or accidents.

Heading south towards Laurel, Mississippi, offers another option, roughly 60 miles away, via MS-19. This journey typically takes about an hour and fifteen minutes. MS-19 is a two-lane highway, and while scenic, it can be more prone to slower travel speeds, particularly during peak hours.

The drive to larger medical centers in Jackson, Mississippi, is a more significant undertaking. The journey, approximately 100 miles west, necessitates travel on MS-19 and then I-20. This trip can take upwards of two hours, making it a considerable commitment, especially for frequent appointments.

Considerations for patients include the physical demands of driving, the potential for fatigue, and the financial burden of fuel costs. These factors are incorporated into the "Prostate Cancer Score," recognizing the impact of travel on a patient's overall experience.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Decatur are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. There is no city bus service.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Decatur, but their availability is inconsistent. Their presence in this rural area is far less reliable than in urban centers. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not recommended.

Medical transportation services are available. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. They offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility needs. Brands like AmeriFleet and Logisticare are available in the area. Booking these services in advance is crucial. The cost, however, can be substantial, representing a significant financial consideration.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and medical facilities. While the lack of public transit poses a challenge, medical transport services typically offer vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Medical facilities are also required to meet ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for patients with mobility limitations.

**Healthcare Facilities and Prostate Cancer Care:**

The availability of specialized prostate cancer care within Decatur is limited. The primary healthcare facilities in the immediate area are general hospitals and clinics. These facilities may offer some diagnostic services, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. However, for advanced treatments like radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy, patients must travel to larger medical centers.

Meridian's Rush Health Systems and Anderson Regional Health System are the closest facilities offering comprehensive cancer care, including prostate cancer treatment. These centers provide a range of services, from diagnosis and staging to treatment and follow-up care.

Jackson's University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) offers specialized care and is a major referral center for complex cases.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" Methodology:**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is calculated based on several factors, including:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center.
* **Transportation Availability:** The reliability and accessibility of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The estimated cost of fuel, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation and medical facilities.
* **Proximity to Specialized Care:** The distance to facilities offering comprehensive prostate cancer treatment.

Each factor is assigned a weighted value, and the overall score reflects the ease and efficiency of accessing prostate cancer care in Decatur. A higher score indicates better access.

**Implications for Patients and Those Moving to Decatur:**

For men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Decatur, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning. Understanding the available transportation options and the associated costs is essential. Early discussions with healthcare providers about treatment plans and transportation needs are crucial.

For individuals considering **moving to Decatur**, this analysis underscores the importance of evaluating healthcare access as part of the relocation decision. Researching the availability of medical transport services and the proximity to comprehensive cancer centers is vital. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is a critical aspect of ensuring access to quality **healthcare** and supporting overall well-being.