39483, Foxworth, Mississippi Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 39483, Foxworth, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.29 percent of residents in 39483 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jefferson Davis Community Hospital Cah with a distance of 25.35 miles from the area.

**Arthritis Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39483 (Foxworth, Mississippi)**

The creak of aging joints, the stiffness that greets the dawn – these are the unwelcome companions of arthritis. For those considering a move to the charming, yet rural, town of Foxworth, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39483), understanding the ease of accessing healthcare becomes paramount. This "Arthritis Score" write-up delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access, providing a crucial assessment for potential residents navigating the challenges of arthritis.

Foxworth, nestled in the heart of Marion County, offers a slower pace of life, a respite from the frenetic energy of urban centers. But this tranquility comes with a trade-off: distance. Healthcare access is a significant factor, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to reach doctors, specialists, and physical therapy is directly tied to quality of life. This analysis considers the practicalities of transportation, weighing the options for those with mobility limitations.

The primary thoroughfare connecting Foxworth to the broader world is US Highway 98. This major east-west artery provides the most direct route to larger towns and cities offering a greater concentration of healthcare facilities. Heading east on Highway 98 leads to Columbia, the county seat of Marion County, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Columbia boasts a hospital, several clinics, and a range of medical specialists, making it a crucial hub for healthcare access.

Westward on Highway 98, the journey extends to Hattiesburg, a city with a more extensive medical infrastructure, including Forrest General Hospital, a major regional medical center. The drive to Hattiesburg typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Interstate 59, accessible via Highway 98, offers a faster, albeit sometimes congested, route to Hattiesburg. This longer distance presents challenges for those with arthritis, making frequent trips for appointments or therapy more arduous.

Smaller, local roads, such as MS-13 and MS-44, weave through the countryside, providing alternative routes. However, these roads are often less well-maintained and can be problematic for those with limited mobility. The condition of the roads, the presence of potholes, and the lack of sidewalks can significantly impact the ease of travel, particularly for individuals with arthritis who may experience pain and discomfort from uneven surfaces.

Public transportation options in Foxworth and the surrounding area are limited. There is no established public bus system within the town itself. The absence of readily available public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those unable to drive or who find driving difficult due to their condition. The lack of options necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transportation, but the scarcity of such services in Foxworth renders this largely irrelevant. The absence of accessible routes and the lack of lift-equipped buses further exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with arthritis. The dependence on alternative transportation becomes even more critical.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services is crucial, as missed appointments can lead to delays in treatment and negatively impact health outcomes. Booking in advance is recommended.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Companies like Senior Ride Services and local ambulance services may offer non-emergency medical transport in the area. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking.

For those considering moving to Foxworth with arthritis, careful planning is essential. The location of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation, and the associated costs must be thoroughly assessed. The distance to medical facilities, the limited public transit options, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services all contribute to the "Arthritis Score" for this area.

The ability to maintain independence and access necessary medical care is paramount. Before making a move, potential residents should research the availability of specialists, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals in the surrounding areas. They should also investigate the feasibility and cost of transportation options, considering the impact on their overall well-being.

The choice to move to Foxworth is a personal one, driven by the desire for a quieter lifestyle. However, the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those with arthritis, must be carefully considered. The "Arthritis Score" for ZIP Code 39483 highlights the challenges and underscores the importance of proactive planning to ensure access to the healthcare needed to maintain a healthy and fulfilling life. The decision to move to Foxworth, therefore, requires a thoughtful evaluation of the trade-offs between the peace of rural living and the accessibility of essential medical services.