39531, Biloxi, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39531, Biloxi, Mississippi is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.49 percent of residents in 39531 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Va Gulf Coast Healthcare System with a distance of 1.14 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 39531**

Relocating to Biloxi, Mississippi, ZIP Code 39531, demands careful consideration, particularly concerning healthcare access. For men, understanding the landscape of prostate cancer screening and treatment is paramount. This write-up provides a Prostate Cancer Score, considering transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for timely diagnosis and care. The score reflects the ease of reaching medical professionals, a vital component of overall well-being. This is especially important when considering transportation challenges in a coastal community.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment, but a guide to navigating the healthcare system. It emphasizes the importance of proactive health management and the necessity of understanding the local infrastructure. The goal is to empower individuals with knowledge, enabling informed decisions about their health and well-being. We will delve into the specifics of transportation, healthcare access, and the implications for those considering moving to Biloxi.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary arteries for transportation in Biloxi are U.S. Highway 90, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Interstate 110, a north-south connector. Access to healthcare facilities, including those specializing in urology and oncology, is heavily reliant on these routes. Drive times vary depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours.

From the heart of ZIP Code 39531, a drive to the Singing River Health System in Gautier, Mississippi, via I-10 East, can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care. The drive to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, a major regional hospital, typically requires a 15-25 minute drive along U.S. Highway 90 West. This hospital offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

Smaller clinics and specialized practices are scattered throughout the area. Accessing these may involve navigating local roads like Pass Road (also known as U.S. Highway 90), and Lameuse Street. These roads can be congested, especially during tourist season. The Prostate Cancer Score reflects these drive times, acknowledging that longer travel distances can impact the speed of accessing care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Biloxi is primarily managed by Coast Transit Authority (CTA). The system provides bus routes throughout the area, but their utility for specialized healthcare access, such as prostate cancer treatment, is limited. Routes are designed for general commuting and may not directly serve all medical facilities.

Bus routes may require transfers, extending travel times significantly. ADA accessibility is a priority for CTA, with all buses equipped with ramps and other features. However, the infrequent service on some routes and the potential for long travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for those needing frequent medical appointments or facing urgent health concerns. The Prostate Cancer Score acknowledges the limitations of public transit for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Biloxi. These offer a more flexible and potentially quicker alternative to public transit, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, availability can fluctuate, and costs can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local companies and non-profit organizations, provide specialized transportation for patients. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance getting to and from appointments. They are a crucial component of healthcare access for many residents. The Prostate Cancer Score considers the availability and reliability of these services.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

Several medical facilities within and around ZIP Code 39531 offer prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. These include Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, Singing River Health System, and various urology clinics. The Prostate Cancer Score assesses the proximity of these facilities and the ease of access via different transportation methods.

The availability of specialists, including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, is another critical factor. The score considers the number of specialists practicing in the area and the waiting times for appointments. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial for prostate cancer outcomes, making access to qualified medical professionals a priority.

**Prostate Cancer Score Calculation**

The Prostate Cancer Score is calculated based on several factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center and urology clinics.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency and directness of bus routes to medical facilities, considering ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The estimated wait times and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and reliability of medical transportation services.
* **Specialist Availability:** The number of urologists and oncologists in the area and the average wait times for appointments.

Each factor is weighted based on its importance in accessing timely and effective healthcare. The final score is presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better healthcare access.

**Implications for Moving to Biloxi**

For individuals considering moving to Biloxi, understanding the Prostate Cancer Score is vital. While the area offers access to healthcare, transportation challenges exist. Those without reliable personal transportation should consider the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Proactive healthcare planning is essential. Researching local urology clinics, cancer centers, and specialists is recommended. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is crucial for regular screenings and referrals. The Prostate Cancer Score serves as a starting point for this planning.

**Conclusion**

The Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 39531 reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a coastal community. While healthcare facilities are available, transportation plays a significant role in ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment. By considering drive times, public transit options, ride-share services, and medical transportation, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This write-up provides a framework for understanding the local healthcare landscape and empowers residents to proactively manage their health. The score highlights the importance of planning and utilizing available resources to ensure optimal healthcare access.