39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

95.30 percent of residents in 39364 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Foundation Inc with a distance of 11.78 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Toomsuba, MS (ZIP Code 39364)

The golden years, a time for reflection, relaxation, and the pursuit of joy. But for those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, the simple act of accessing healthcare can become a complex and daunting ordeal. This write-up explores the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access within the Toomsuba, Mississippi ZIP code 39364, providing an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment. This score considers the ease of movement to medical facilities, offering insights for individuals and families considering a move or seeking to improve their current situation.

The landscape of 39364, a rural community, presents unique transportation hurdles. The primary mode of travel is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars necessitates careful consideration of driving abilities, especially as Alzheimer's progresses. The ability to navigate roads safely, remember routes, and react to unexpected events diminishes, making alternative transportation essential.

The major roadways in the area are crucial for healthcare access. Interstate 20 (I-20) provides a direct route to Meridian, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities. US Highway 11 also serves as a significant thoroughfare. Within Toomsuba, local roads like Old Highway 11, and various county roads link residences to these major arteries. Drive times to healthcare facilities, therefore, depend on the location within the ZIP code and the destination.

For residents of Toomsuba, the closest healthcare facilities are in Meridian. Rush Health Systems, a major healthcare provider, is located approximately 10-15 minutes away via I-20. This drive time, while relatively short, can be impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's cognitive state. The Meridian Naval Air Station, also reachable via I-20, houses a clinic for veterans.

Public transportation options in 39364 are limited. The Meridian Transit System (MTS) operates within Meridian, but service to Toomsuba is virtually nonexistent. The MTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges often associated with Alzheimer's. However, the lack of routes connecting Toomsuba to Meridian significantly restricts healthcare access for those unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Meridian but their presence in Toomsuba is inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Reliance on ride-sharing requires pre-planning, scheduling, and the ability to use a smartphone app, which can be difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution. Companies like Med-Ride and Care Ride provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing. They are a valuable option, particularly for individuals with mobility issues and those who cannot drive. However, the availability of these services in 39364 and their responsiveness to urgent needs require careful investigation.

The Alzheimer's Score for 39364 reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present significant obstacles. The score is influenced by the proximity of Meridian, but the lack of direct and reliable transportation options negatively impacts the overall assessment.

For individuals considering moving to Toomsuba, or for current residents, planning for healthcare access is crucial. This includes assessing driving abilities, exploring medical transportation options, and establishing a network of support. Family members and caregivers must be prepared to provide transportation, assist with appointments, and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

The impact of Alzheimer's extends beyond the individual, affecting families and communities. The ability to access healthcare is paramount for managing the disease, ensuring quality of life, and providing support for caregivers. The availability of transportation options directly affects the ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing care.

The Alzheimer's Score for 39364 is a dynamic assessment. Improvements in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transit, and the increased availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services could significantly improve the score. Community initiatives that promote caregiver support, provide transportation assistance, and raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease are also vital.

Healthcare access is a fundamental right, especially for vulnerable populations. In 39364, addressing the transportation challenges is essential to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the care they need. The community must work together to create a supportive environment where individuals with Alzheimer's can live with dignity and receive the necessary medical attention.

The journey to healthcare in Toomsuba, MS, requires careful planning and proactive solutions. The Alzheimer's Score highlights the existing challenges and underscores the need for collaborative efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents. This includes advocating for better transportation options, supporting caregivers, and promoting a compassionate and understanding community.