39167, Star, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39167, Star, Mississippi is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 39167 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ms State Hospital-Whitfield with a distance of 9.30 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 39167

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human need, becomes a complex equation for individuals grappling with Alzheimer's disease. In ZIP code 39167, encompassing the vibrant community of Star, Mississippi, this equation demands careful consideration. The "Alzheimer's Score" here is a measure of the ease with which residents can access necessary medical services, factoring in transportation options, drive times, and the availability of specialized care. This score is not a definitive ranking but a guide, a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities that await those seeking healthcare in this growing community.

The primary concern for individuals with Alzheimer's is the ability to safely and reliably reach medical appointments. The ability to drive, a skill often compromised by the disease, becomes a significant hurdle. Therefore, the availability of alternative transportation options is paramount. In Star, the transportation landscape is primarily defined by personal vehicles, with limited public transit and ride-sharing services.

Driving, the most common mode of transport, presents its own set of challenges. The major thoroughfares in and around Star are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities. Interstate 20 (I-20) provides a direct route to Jackson, the nearest major city offering a wide range of medical specialists and hospitals. However, the drive to Jackson can be a considerable time commitment, especially during peak hours. From Star, the journey on I-20 can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Within Star, residents rely on roads like Star Road, Old Jackson Road, and Midway Road to access local medical offices and pharmacies. These roads, though generally well-maintained, can be subject to congestion during school drop-off and pick-up times, potentially adding to the stress of a medical appointment. The drive to the nearest urgent care facility on Star Road is usually a quick 5-10 minutes, a crucial factor for timely medical attention.

Public transportation, a vital lifeline for those unable to drive, is unfortunately limited in Star. There is no dedicated public bus system within the town. The nearest public transportation options are in Jackson, requiring a drive to the city. This absence significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score, as it restricts access for those who cannot drive or afford ride-sharing services.

The Jackson area does offer a public transit system. The Jackson Transit System (JATRAN) provides bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. However, the distance from Star to the JATRAN hub and the potential for multiple transfers make this option less practical for many residents. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while present, is not always guaranteed on every route or at every time. This adds another layer of complexity for individuals with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public transportation. However, their availability in Star and the surrounding areas can be unpredictable. Ride-sharing availability is dependent on driver availability, which can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, are another avenue to explore. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. While several medical transport companies operate in the Jackson area, their service radius and availability in Star should be carefully investigated. Companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) and Rural/Metro Corporation may provide services, but it's essential to confirm their coverage area and the types of transportation they offer (e.g., wheelchair-accessible vehicles).

The availability of specialized Alzheimer's care within the 39167 ZIP code is another crucial factor. While Star has a few local primary care physicians, specialized geriatric care and memory care clinics are likely located in Jackson. This necessitates longer travel times and further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation options.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Star, Mississippi, is therefore influenced by a combination of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential for unpredictable ride-sharing services create challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The drive to Jackson for specialized care adds further complexity.

For those considering moving to Star, or for existing residents, the "Alzheimer's Score" highlights the need for careful planning. Families should assess the individual's ability to drive, explore the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and investigate the accessibility of healthcare facilities in both Star and Jackson. The ability to secure reliable transportation is paramount for maintaining healthcare access and ensuring the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's.

The future of healthcare access in Star may depend on the development of more robust transportation solutions. This could include the expansion of ride-sharing services, the potential for a local shuttle service, or partnerships with medical transport providers. The goal is to create a more supportive environment, where individuals with Alzheimer's can navigate the healthcare system with greater ease and dignity.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic reflection of the community's commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all its residents. As Star grows and evolves, the community has the opportunity to improve its score by investing in transportation infrastructure and supporting initiatives that promote healthcare access. This is particularly important for those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.