Health Scores Near 39354, Preston, Mississippi
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The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39354, Preston, Mississippi is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
27.32 percent of residents in 39354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Stennis Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.61 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 39354, Preston, Mississippi
| Alzheimers Score | 23 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 24 |
| Provider Score | 37 |
| Hospital Score | 33 |
| Travel Score | 57 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 39354 | Preston | Mississippi |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 3.00 | 3.00 | 2.14 |
| 1 Car | 9.71 | 9.71 | 19.38 |
| 2 Cars | 9.28 | 9.28 | 39.26 |
| 3 or More Cars | 78.02 | 78.02 | 39.21 |
Vehicular Access in 39354, Preston, Mississippi
## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Preston, MS (ZIP Code 39354)
The golden hues of a Mississippi sunset often paint the sky over Preston, a small community nestled in the heart of rural Neshoba County. For those considering a move to this peaceful haven, particularly individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 39354, evaluating its impact on healthcare accessibility, a critical factor for residents managing cognitive decline.
The primary concern for residents of Preston is the relative isolation. While the tranquility is alluring, it translates to a limited availability of specialized medical services and, critically, a dependence on transportation for even routine healthcare needs. This is where the "Alzheimer's Score" begins to reflect the challenges and opportunities.
**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**
For most residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to healthcare facilities involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The town of Philadelphia, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, houses the nearest hospital, Anderson Regional Health System’s Philadelphia Campus. Access to this facility is primarily via MS-19, a major north-south thoroughfare.
The journey along MS-19 is generally straightforward. However, the road can experience periods of congestion, particularly during peak hours or when weather conditions deteriorate. The quality of the road surface is generally good, but potholes and uneven pavement can occasionally present challenges, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those relying on caregivers.
Beyond Philadelphia, specialized care often necessitates travel to Meridian, roughly a 45-60 minute drive. This journey typically involves MS-19 south, connecting to I-20. The interstate offers a faster, albeit potentially more stressful, route. The availability of rest areas along I-20 provides opportunities for breaks, a critical consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience increased anxiety or confusion during extended travel.
The "Alzheimer's Score" must consider the physical and cognitive demands of driving. For individuals with Alzheimer's, driving may become unsafe. Even for caregivers, the responsibility of navigating unfamiliar routes, managing traffic, and ensuring the safety of their loved ones can be overwhelming.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in Preston are extremely limited. Neshoba County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This severely restricts healthcare access for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle.
The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant negative factor in the "Alzheimer's Score." Individuals who can no longer drive, and who do not have family or friends to transport them, face a formidable barrier to healthcare access.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Preston or the immediate surrounding areas. This severely limits their utility for healthcare transportation.
Medical transportation services, however, offer a potential lifeline. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides to and from medical appointments.
The availability and reliability of NEMT services are crucial components of the "Alzheimer's Score." While these services can mitigate some of the transportation challenges, their effectiveness depends on factors such as cost, scheduling flexibility, and the availability of trained drivers who understand the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments.
**Medical Transportation Providers**
* **AmbuTrans** - This provider offers transportation services, including wheelchair accessible options, for medical appointments.
* **First Transit** - This is another option for medical transportation, but availability varies.
**ADA Compliance:** It is essential to inquire about ADA-compliant vehicles and services when booking medical transportation. Ensure the vehicle can accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**
While transportation is a critical factor, healthcare access extends beyond simply getting to appointments. The "Alzheimer's Score" must also consider the availability of specialized medical services in the area.
The Anderson Regional Health System’s Philadelphia Campus offers primary care services and some specialized care. However, for more complex needs, such as neurology or geriatric psychiatry, residents may need to travel to Meridian or even further afield.
The distance to specialized care centers can create significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Frequent travel can be tiring and stressful, potentially exacerbating symptoms of cognitive decline.
**Moving to Preston: A Balanced Perspective**
Considering a move to Preston, MS (ZIP code 39354) requires a balanced assessment. The tranquility and close-knit community are undeniable assets. However, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access must be carefully weighed, especially for individuals and families managing Alzheimer's disease.
The "Alzheimer's Score" for Preston reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the lack of public transportation, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on driving or medical transportation for healthcare access pose significant challenges.
Caregivers considering a move to Preston should thoroughly research medical transportation options, assess the availability of specialized healthcare services in the region, and carefully evaluate the potential transportation burdens on their loved ones.
**Recommendations for Improving the "Alzheimer's Score"**
* **Advocate for expanded public transportation:** Support efforts to establish or expand public transit options, including routes to healthcare facilities and ADA-compliant vehicles.
* **Promote ride-sharing partnerships:** Explore opportunities to partner with ride-sharing services to provide transportation to healthcare appointments.
* **Support medical transportation providers:** Advocate for increased funding and resources for medical transportation services, ensuring their availability and affordability.
* **Enhance caregiver support:** Promote the availability of caregiver support services, including respite care, counseling, and educational programs.
* **Increase awareness of Alzheimer's disease:** Support community initiatives to raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease and its impact on individuals and families.
By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Preston can strive to improve its "Alzheimer's Score" and create a more supportive and accessible environment for individuals living with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.
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