39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.05 percent of residents in 39525 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 Ochsner Medical Center-Hancock with a distance of 5.10 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39525

Diamondhead, Mississippi, nestled along the Gulf Coast, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, when considering a move, especially for individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, access to healthcare becomes paramount. This analysis, an "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation and healthcare access, examines the commute landscape within and around ZIP code 39525, providing crucial insights for informed decision-making.

The score weighs various factors: drive times to medical facilities, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. This evaluation acknowledges the unique challenges faced by those with Alzheimer's, including cognitive impairment, mobility issues, and the need for consistent and reliable transportation to appointments and treatments.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For residents of Diamondhead, the primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the automobile. The ease of driving, however, is often contingent on the driver's health and the distance to healthcare providers. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 10 (I-10) and Mississippi Highway 607 (also known as Waveland Avenue and Diamondhead Drive) form the backbone of the transportation network.

Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as Hancock Medical Center in Bay St. Louis, entails a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes via Highway 607 and I-10. This relatively short commute provides comfort, especially during emergencies. However, the journey to larger, specialized facilities like Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, located about 30 miles east, can take around 45-60 minutes via I-10. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, factoring in potential traffic delays and the patient's tolerance for extended travel.

Other healthcare providers, including specialized clinics and rehabilitation centers, are scattered throughout the region. Access to these facilities necessitates navigating local roads like North and South Shore Boulevards, and various side streets. These routes can be less predictable, with variations in traffic flow.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within and around Diamondhead are limited. The Mississippi Coast Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services throughout the coastal region, but its routes and frequency are not always conducive to the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

The MCTA’s routes may have limited coverage within Diamondhead itself, and the nearest bus stops may be located a considerable distance from residential areas. Furthermore, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, making it challenging to schedule and attend medical appointments.

While the MCTA strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant buses with wheelchair lifts and designated seating, the reliance on public transit for those with cognitive impairments and mobility issues can be problematic. The potential for confusion, the need to navigate unfamiliar environments, and the lack of direct routes to medical facilities can create significant barriers to healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Diamondhead area, offering a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing for flexible scheduling and door-to-door service. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours, and the potential for increased costs can pose challenges.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the reliance on ride-sharing requires careful consideration. The need to interact with unfamiliar drivers, the potential for confusion regarding destinations, and the lack of specialized assistance can create anxiety and increase the risk of getting lost or disoriented.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with disabilities and medical conditions, provide a crucial lifeline for healthcare access. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist patients with mobility issues, medication reminders, and other needs.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Diamondhead area, including companies like Senior Care Transportation and FirstLight Home Care. These services often provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) to hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. However, availability, cost, and the need for advance booking should be carefully assessed.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 39525 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Hancock Medical Center offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on driving, the limitations of public transit, and the challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation necessitate a nuanced evaluation.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Relatively short commutes to Hancock Medical Center are a positive factor. Longer commutes to specialized facilities, like Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, necessitate careful planning.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options, with infrequent service and potential accessibility challenges, negatively impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability of Uber and Lyft provides a degree of flexibility, but potential costs and the need for patient assistance must be considered.
* **Medical Transportation:** The presence of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline, but availability, cost, and the need for advance booking must be factored in.

**Moving to Diamondhead: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals or families considering a move to Diamondhead, this analysis underscores the importance of a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the challenges related to transportation and the specific needs of those with Alzheimer's must be carefully considered.

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the proximity to healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and specialists.
* **Transportation Options:** Assess the availability and reliability of transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.
* **Caregiver Support:** Determine the availability of caregiver support, including family members, friends, and professional caregivers.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop an emergency plan, including access to medical information, emergency contacts, and transportation resources.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals and families can make informed decisions about moving to Diamondhead, ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority. The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a starting point for this crucial assessment, providing valuable insights into the complexities of transportation and healthcare access in this beautiful coastal community.