39051, Carthage, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.30 percent of residents in 39051 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Leake with a distance of 3.39 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051)

Considering a move to Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051), and concerned about healthcare access, especially for someone facing Alzheimer's disease? This Alzheimer's Score assesses the ease of transportation to medical facilities, a critical factor in managing the disease. The score analyzes drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive overview of transportation challenges and opportunities. This information is vital for families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care.

Carthage, nestled in Leake County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The town's rural setting impacts healthcare access, demanding careful consideration of commuting options. The score weighs these factors, offering a realistic picture of the transportation landscape. It helps families assess whether Carthage aligns with their healthcare needs, particularly concerning Alzheimer's care.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions**

The primary route for healthcare access from Carthage involves driving. The most direct path to the nearest major healthcare hub, the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, is approximately 75 miles. This journey typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, heavily reliant on **Highway 25** south. This highway is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise from traffic, especially during peak hours, or from inclement weather.

Another option involves traveling to facilities in Meridian, about 90 miles east. This route utilizes **Highway 16** east to connect with **Highway 45** south. The drive time is roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. This route is less congested than the Jackson route, but the roads can be less well-maintained in certain stretches.

Local healthcare options within Carthage itself are limited, primarily consisting of clinics and family practices. Accessing these facilities is usually straightforward, involving short drives on local roads. However, specialized care, particularly for Alzheimer's, often necessitates travel to Jackson or Meridian. These longer journeys increase the risk of disorientation and anxiety for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The condition of local roads, including **Main Street**, **Court Square**, and surrounding streets, is generally adequate. However, potholes and uneven surfaces can present challenges for those with mobility issues. The availability of parking at medical facilities is generally sufficient, but accessibility features like handicap parking and ramps should be verified.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Carthage is extremely limited. There is no established public bus system within the town or connecting it to Jackson or Meridian. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or who are no longer able to drive safely.

The absence of public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation options. This is a critical consideration for families moving to Carthage, especially those seeking to provide care for an individual with Alzheimer's. The lack of options necessitates reliance on private vehicles or external transportation services.

The nearest regional transit authority, if any, may offer limited demand-response services, but availability and eligibility requirements should be carefully investigated. These services often require advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any potential transit options further complicates matters for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson and Meridian areas, but their presence in Carthage is unreliable. Availability is often limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can be a significant concern. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not recommended.

Medical transportation services are a crucial consideration. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation for medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare needs. However, availability and pricing can vary.

Some of the medical transport brands operating in the region may include local ambulance services or specialized transportation providers. It is essential to research and contact these companies to determine their service area, pricing, and availability. The Alzheimer's Score emphasizes the need to verify that these services offer trained staff familiar with the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are available in Carthage. The Leake County Ambulance Service provides emergency response and transport to the nearest hospital. However, the distance to major hospitals, such as UMMC in Jackson, can impact response times.

**Accessibility and Considerations for Alzheimer's Care**

When considering healthcare access in Carthage for someone with Alzheimer's, several factors beyond transportation must be assessed. The availability of specialized geriatric care, memory care units, and support groups is crucial. The proximity to pharmacies, grocery stores, and other essential services also plays a significant role.

The Alzheimer's Score emphasizes the importance of planning for potential emergencies. Having a backup transportation plan, including family members, friends, or hired caregivers, is essential. Familiarizing oneself with the local emergency services and the nearest hospitals is also critical.

The environment of Carthage, with its rural setting and potential for social isolation, can impact the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of social activities, community programs, and caregiver support groups is vital. The Alzheimer's Score encourages prospective residents to research these resources and assess their suitability.

**Overall Assessment and Recommendations**

The Alzheimer's Score for transportation to healthcare in Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051) is relatively low. The limited public transportation options, the unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on long-distance driving pose significant challenges. The lack of readily available specialized Alzheimer's care within Carthage further exacerbates the situation.

Families considering a move to Carthage for a loved one with Alzheimer's should carefully evaluate the transportation challenges. They should prioritize the availability of reliable private transportation, whether through family, friends, or medical transport services. They should also research the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care facilities in Jackson or Meridian.

This Alzheimer's Score serves as a starting point for a more in-depth assessment. It is essential to conduct thorough research, contact local healthcare providers, and explore all available resources. Careful planning and preparation are crucial for ensuring healthcare access and maintaining the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's in Carthage. The move to Carthage requires a comprehensive plan for transportation and healthcare access.