39145, Pelahatchie, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39145, Pelahatchie, Mississippi is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.17 percent of residents in 39145 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Scott Regional with a distance of 7.21 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39145 (Pelahatchie, Mississippi)

Imagine a life where the familiar fades, where the simplest tasks become monumental challenges. For individuals navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, every aspect of daily life, including accessing crucial healthcare, requires careful consideration. This assessment focuses on the transportation landscape within ZIP code 39145, Pelahatchie, Mississippi, offering a framework for understanding healthcare access, particularly for those affected by Alzheimer's and their caregivers. It's a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Pelahatchie.

The landscape surrounding Pelahatchie is primarily rural, characterized by rolling hills and scattered communities. This geographical reality significantly impacts transportation options. The ability to get to medical appointments, therapy sessions, and other essential healthcare services becomes a pivotal concern. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the commute to healthcare, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the available transportation infrastructure.

The primary thoroughfare serving Pelahatchie is **Interstate 20 (I-20)**. This major east-west artery provides the most direct route to larger medical facilities located in Jackson, the state capital, approximately 30 miles west. The drive along I-20 offers a relatively smooth and well-maintained journey, but traffic can become congested during peak hours, especially near Jackson. The time spent on the road can be taxing, both physically and mentally, for someone with Alzheimer's, and the potential for delays adds another layer of complexity.

Several secondary roads provide access to local healthcare facilities and connect Pelahatchie to surrounding towns. **Highway 80** travels east-west and offers access to Brandon, a town with several medical clinics and specialists. **Highway 49** runs north-south, potentially providing access to healthcare facilities in the northern parts of Rankin County. These roads, while offering alternatives to I-20, may be less direct and could have varying road conditions, potentially impacting the comfort and safety of the journey.

Public transportation options in Pelahatchie and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of fixed-route bus services is virtually non-existent. The lack of a robust public transportation system presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or who are unable to drive safely due to the progression of Alzheimer's. This reality highlights the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

While fixed-route public transit is absent, the possibility of utilizing demand-response services, such as those offered by the **Rankin County Council on Aging**, exists. These services typically require advance booking and may have limitations on operating hours and service areas. The availability of these services, however, can be a lifeline for those who cannot drive. The accessibility features of these services, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, are crucial for individuals with mobility challenges, a common symptom of Alzheimer's.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Jackson metropolitan area, but their presence in Pelahatchie is less consistent. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be problematic due to potential delays, cancellations, and the higher cost compared to other transportation options. The dependability of ride-sharing in this rural setting is a significant consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, are another option. Companies specializing in medical transport often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The availability of these services in Pelahatchie is a critical factor. Researching and identifying reputable medical transportation providers is essential for ensuring safe and reliable transportation to healthcare appointments. This is a critical piece of the puzzle for those considering moving to Pelahatchie.

The cost of transportation is a significant factor for anyone seeking healthcare, and the costs associated with transportation can quickly accumulate. Gas prices, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport charges can strain financial resources, especially for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The financial burden of transportation must be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP code 39145 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, and the lack of readily available public transportation options presents a significant challenge. The distance to larger medical facilities in Jackson, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, adds to the complexity. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is a positive factor, but their reliability and cost must be carefully assessed.

For individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape is paramount. The choice to move to Pelahatchie, or any rural area, requires a thorough evaluation of transportation options. The ability to access healthcare services safely, reliably, and affordably is a critical component of maintaining quality of life and ensuring the well-being of those affected by Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score for this area is not a simple numerical value. It is a complex assessment that requires careful consideration of all available transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, the cost of transportation, and the individual needs of the person with Alzheimer's. The availability of support services, such as caregiver assistance and respite care, also plays a vital role in mitigating the challenges of transportation and healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Pelahatchie offers a tranquil setting, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's are undeniable. Careful planning, thorough research, and a proactive approach to securing reliable transportation are essential for ensuring that those affected by this disease can access the healthcare they need to maintain their health and well-being. The choice to move to Pelahatchie is a personal one, but the realities of the transportation landscape must be carefully considered.