39079, Goodman, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39079, Goodman, Mississippi is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.73 percent of residents in 39079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holmes County Hospital And Clinics with a distance of 12.50 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Goodman, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39079)

The golden hues of Mississippi sunsets often paint the sky over Goodman, a small town nestled in Holmes County. But for those considering a move to this rural haven, especially individuals or families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the idyllic image must be tempered with a pragmatic assessment of healthcare access. This "Alzheimer's Score" delves into the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** in ZIP code 39079, offering a critical perspective for those seeking to relocate or support loved ones in this community.

The cornerstone of any Alzheimer's Score is proximity to specialized medical care. In Goodman, the nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located outside the immediate vicinity. The primary hospital serving the region is the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, approximately 60 miles south. The drive, primarily via Interstate 55 South, is generally a straightforward journey, but can easily take over an hour, even without traffic. This journey can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments.

The route necessitates navigating the bustling Jackson metropolitan area, a significant hurdle for those with compromised executive function. The initial segment involves traversing Mississippi Highway 14, a two-lane road that can be subject to delays, especially during peak hours. The transition onto I-55 South, while offering a faster pace, introduces the complexities of interstate driving: merging, lane changes, and the constant flow of traffic.

Beyond UMMC, other healthcare options exist, but require further travel. Baptist Medical Center in Jackson is another option, accessible via I-55 South, adding roughly 15 minutes to the drive. For specialized neurological care, including memory clinics and Alzheimer's specialists, the drive to Jackson is virtually unavoidable. This reality underscores the critical importance of reliable **transportation** options.

Public **transportation** in Goodman is limited. The primary mode of public transit is the Holmes County Transit System, which offers demand-response services. However, schedules are limited, and routes are designed primarily to connect residents with essential services within the county. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial factor for those with mobility challenges. Contacting the Holmes County Transit System directly is necessary to determine specific ADA features and scheduling.

The lack of robust public transit highlights the dependence on private **transportation**. For individuals unable to drive, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Jackson area, but their presence in Goodman is less certain. Availability may be limited, and wait times could be significant. The cost of frequent rides to and from Jackson can quickly become a financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for those needing assistance. Several companies operate in the region, including First Medical Transport and American Medical Response. These services provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services come with a cost, and pre-booking is essential. Understanding the specific services offered, the geographic coverage, and the associated fees is paramount.

The journey to healthcare extends beyond the physical distance. The availability of local pharmacies and home healthcare services is crucial. While Goodman has local pharmacies, the availability of specialized medications and support services for Alzheimer's patients may necessitate trips to Jackson. Home healthcare providers, offering in-home assistance with daily living activities, medication management, and skilled nursing care, are another essential component of support. Researching the availability and quality of these services within the Goodman area is a key factor in the Alzheimer's Score.

The social determinants of health also play a role. The availability of support groups, memory cafes, and respite care programs for caregivers is vital. These resources provide emotional support, education, and a sense of community. The absence of these resources can exacerbate the challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer's. Investigating the availability of these programs in Goodman and the surrounding areas is a must.

Considering a move to Goodman, or any rural area, demands a careful evaluation of these factors. The Alzheimer's Score is not a simple metric; it is a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities. The drive times to specialized care, the limitations of public **transportation**, the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transport** services, and the presence of local support services all contribute to the overall score.

For those considering **moving to Goodman**, a thorough understanding of these elements is critical. The decision should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the individual with Alzheimer's. The ability to maintain a high quality of life while managing the disease is directly linked to the availability of accessible healthcare and a supportive community.

The journey to healthcare in Goodman, and indeed in any rural community, requires careful planning and proactive engagement. The "Alzheimer's Score" framework encourages a comprehensive evaluation, ensuring that the decision to relocate is informed and that the necessary resources are in place to support the individual and their caregivers. The goal is to ensure that the beauty of a Mississippi sunset is not overshadowed by the challenges of healthcare access.