39040, Bentonia, Mississippi Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 39040, Bentonia, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.36 percent of residents in 39040 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Yazoo with a distance of 14.77 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bentonia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39040)

The quaint, rural landscape of Bentonia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39040), offers a slower pace of life, a stark contrast to the bustling cityscapes many are accustomed to. However, for individuals managing arthritis, the serenity of this community is interwoven with a complex reality: the challenge of **healthcare access**. This "Arthritis Score" aims to dissect the **transportation** landscape within and surrounding Bentonia, providing crucial insights for those considering **moving to Bentonia** or seeking care within its vicinity. The score assesses the accessibility of medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

Bentonia, a small town nestled in Yazoo County, presents a unique set of circumstances when considering **healthcare access**. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Yazoo City and Jackson, necessitating travel. The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** are Mississippi Highway 149, connecting Bentonia to Yazoo City, and Mississippi Highway 433, which provides access to the larger city of Jackson. These roads, while generally well-maintained, are subject to the typical rural challenges: limited shoulder space, potential for wildlife encounters, and the occasional slow-moving farm equipment.

Driving to Yazoo City, approximately 15 miles from Bentonia, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Highway 149. This drive provides access to the Merit Health Yazoo hospital, a crucial resource for urgent care and a range of medical specialties. However, for specialized rheumatology services, individuals often need to travel further.

The journey to Jackson, roughly 50 miles south via Highway 433 and then Interstate 20, is significantly longer, averaging an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Jackson offers a wider array of medical facilities, including the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a major teaching hospital with a robust rheumatology department. This longer commute, however, can pose a significant burden for individuals with arthritis, particularly those experiencing pain, fatigue, and mobility limitations.

Public **transportation** options in Bentonia are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or connecting it directly to Yazoo City or Jackson. This absence of public transit severely restricts **healthcare access** for those who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their condition. The lack of accessible public transit is a significant factor in assessing the overall "Arthritis Score" for this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson area, offering a potential **transportation** solution. However, their availability in Bentonia itself is highly variable. Securing a ride-share from Bentonia to Jackson or Yazoo City might involve longer wait times and potentially higher fares due to the rural location and limited driver availability. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations, are a crucial consideration. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, representing a financial burden for some patients. Potential medical transport brands include, but are not limited to, First Choice Medical Transport, American Medical Response, and others.

The "Arthritis Score" for Bentonia, Mississippi, must also consider the availability of local pharmacies. Access to medications, including those prescribed for arthritis, is critical for managing the condition. While Bentonia may have limited local pharmacy options, pharmacies in Yazoo City and Jackson are readily accessible, providing essential medication refills and consultations.

For individuals considering **moving to Bentonia** with arthritis, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is paramount. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for higher costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services necessitate careful planning.

The impact of long commutes on arthritis management should not be underestimated. Prolonged sitting, jarring rides, and the stress of navigating traffic can exacerbate symptoms. Therefore, individuals should consider the proximity of their chosen healthcare providers and the availability of supportive services, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy, within a reasonable distance.

The "Arthritis Score" for Bentonia, Mississippi, reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges associated with **healthcare access** cannot be overlooked. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transit, and the potential cost of specialized medical transport services create significant barriers for individuals with arthritis. Careful planning, including a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs and a consideration of the financial implications of accessing care, is crucial for anyone **moving to Bentonia** or seeking medical treatment in the area.