39360, Shubuta, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39360, Shubuta, Mississippi is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.09 percent of residents in 39360 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Watkins Hospital with a distance of 12.41 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shubuta, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39360)

The diagnosis of prostate cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and informed action. For residents of Shubuta, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39360), a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, particularly transportation options, is crucial. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of prostate cancer-related healthcare within and around this rural community. We will dissect the available transportation infrastructure, from highways and public transit to ride-sharing and medical transport, to illuminate the practical realities of seeking care. This knowledge is invaluable, whether you are a long-time resident or considering moving to Shubuta.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers several factors: the proximity of urologists, oncologists, radiation therapy centers, and hospitals equipped to handle prostate cancer treatment; the time and ease of travel; and the availability and reliability of transportation options. A higher score reflects better healthcare access. We will analyze these elements, providing a nuanced picture of healthcare accessibility in this specific geographic context.

Shubuta, a small town nestled in Clarke County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation. The primary routes for reaching specialized medical care involve navigating the roads and highways that connect Shubuta to larger population centers.

Interstate 59 (I-59) is the major artery, offering the most direct route to Meridian, approximately 30 miles to the north. This drive typically takes around 45 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. I-59 provides access to essential medical facilities, including Anderson Regional Medical Center, which offers comprehensive cancer care services. The drive itself is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during hurricane season, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Another important route is Mississippi Highway 145, which leads north to Enterprise and south towards Quitman. This highway provides access to local clinics and healthcare providers, though the scope of specialized prostate cancer care may be limited. Travel times on Highway 145 are generally shorter than on I-59, but it is a two-lane road, and traffic can be slower.

Mississippi Highway 18 also intersects with Highway 145, providing an alternate route to Meridian, though this route is generally less direct and may involve navigating smaller county roads. These roads are often less well-maintained, and the drive times can be unpredictable.

Public transportation options in Shubuta are severely limited. There is no established public bus system within the town. The availability of public transit for accessing healthcare is a significant concern, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score" in this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Meridian. However, their presence in Shubuta is inconsistent. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability and can be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This limitation further complicates healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are available, though their availability and cost vary. Companies like CareRide and MedStar Transportation offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services are often pre-booked and may require significant advance notice. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, posing a financial burden for patients. This is a critical factor to consider when evaluating the overall healthcare access.

Healthcare access also encompasses the availability of local clinics and primary care physicians. While Shubuta may have a limited number of local healthcare providers, the specialized care required for prostate cancer treatment necessitates travel to Meridian or other larger cities.

For individuals considering moving to Shubuta, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The relative isolation of the town necessitates careful planning and consideration of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services underscores the importance of having a reliable transportation plan.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Shubuta, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39360) is negatively impacted by the lack of public transportation, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on travel to Meridian for specialized care. While the drive to Meridian is relatively straightforward on I-59, it still requires approximately 45 minutes, which can be a significant barrier for patients needing frequent appointments or experiencing mobility limitations.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline, but their cost and the need for pre-booking must be considered. The overall score reflects the challenges associated with accessing timely and comprehensive prostate cancer care in this rural community.

To improve the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Shubuta, initiatives that enhance transportation options are vital. This could include advocating for public transportation services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to ensure greater availability, and expanding the network of medical transportation providers.

Furthermore, exploring opportunities to bring specialized prostate cancer care closer to the community, such as through mobile clinics or partnerships with hospitals in Meridian, would significantly improve healthcare access.

For residents of Shubuta, proactive planning is essential. This includes establishing a reliable transportation plan, identifying local support networks, and understanding the available resources for financial assistance with transportation and medical expenses.

The journey through prostate cancer treatment is challenging. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare access, residents of Shubuta can navigate this journey with greater confidence and ensure they receive the care they need.