39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis 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.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Diamondhead (ZIP Code 39525)

The shimmering Gulf Coast beckons, and Diamondhead, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39525), offers a compelling lifestyle. But for individuals managing arthritis, the promise of paradise hinges on one crucial factor: accessible healthcare. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access within and around Diamondhead, providing a comprehensive assessment for those considering a move or seeking improved care. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, all crucial elements in navigating the challenges arthritis presents.

Diamondhead itself, a master-planned community, offers a relatively self-contained environment. However, specialized medical care often necessitates venturing beyond its borders. The primary concern for residents is the ease of **transportation** to rheumatologists, orthopedic specialists, pain management clinics, and physical therapy facilities. This is where the "Arthritis Score" begins its evaluation.

Driving is the dominant mode of **transportation** in this area. The primary thoroughfare is Interstate 10 (I-10), running east-west, providing a crucial link to larger medical centers. Access to I-10 is generally straightforward, though traffic congestion can be a factor, particularly during peak hours and in the vicinity of major cities like Gulfport and Biloxi. From Diamondhead, a drive east on I-10 leads to Gulfport, where several healthcare facilities are located.

The drive to Gulfport Memorial Hospital, a major medical center, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive primarily involves I-10, with exits leading directly to the hospital. For those requiring specialized rheumatology or orthopedic care, this is a significant destination.

Further east on I-10, approximately a 45-60 minute drive, lies Biloxi, home to the Ocean Springs Hospital. This drive, again primarily on I-10, offers access to a wider range of specialists and advanced medical services. The travel time, however, adds a layer of complexity for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic pain.

Heading west on I-10 from Diamondhead leads to Slidell, Louisiana, approximately a 45-60 minute drive. While this provides access to additional healthcare options, including some specialized clinics, crossing state lines introduces potential complexities related to insurance and out-of-state care.

Within Diamondhead, local roads such as Mississippi Highway 607 and Diamondhead Drive provide access to local amenities and services. However, these roads are less direct routes to major medical facilities, primarily serving as connectors to I-10. The condition of these roads is generally good, but potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate discomfort for individuals with arthritis.

Public **transportation** options are limited in the Diamondhead area. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast. However, service frequency and route coverage are often insufficient for the specific needs of individuals with arthritis.

The primary CTA route serving the area is Route 10, which runs along Highway 90, a parallel road to I-10, and connects to the Gulfport Transit Center. This route offers limited service to Diamondhead, typically with hourly or less frequent departures. ADA accessibility is a standard feature on CTA buses, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers to reach specialized medical facilities pose significant challenges.

The lack of robust public **transportation** necessitates reliance on alternative options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Diamondhead area, offering a more convenient alternative to public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in response to inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for individuals with more significant mobility challenges. Several companies provide non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services in the Diamondhead area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey to medical appointments.

Some reputable medical **transportation** providers operating in the region include, but are not limited to, First Transit and Care Ride. These services often require pre-booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the policy and the specific medical need. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully investigated before moving to or residing in Diamondhead.

The "Arthritis Score" also considers the proximity of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services within Diamondhead. The presence of local pharmacies offering prescription refills and over-the-counter pain relief medications is crucial for managing arthritis symptoms. Furthermore, access to physical therapy clinics and rehabilitation centers within a reasonable distance is vital for maintaining mobility and managing pain.

The Diamondhead community itself has a limited number of these services. The reliance on nearby cities, such as Gulfport and Biloxi, is necessary for comprehensive **healthcare access**. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of the available **transportation** options.

In assessing the "Arthritis Score" for Diamondhead, several factors must be weighed. The relatively short drive times to Gulfport and Biloxi offer good **healthcare access** to a range of specialists and medical facilities. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on driving or ride-sharing pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The availability of medical **transportation** services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

For individuals considering **moving to Diamondhead** with arthritis, a thorough assessment of their specific needs is paramount. Those with severe mobility limitations or those who cannot drive should carefully evaluate the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services. They should also factor in the potential for increased travel times and the need for careful planning to ensure timely arrival at medical appointments.

The "Arthritis Score" for Diamondhead, therefore, is a mixed bag. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle and relatively easy access to major medical centers via I-10, the limitations in public **transportation** and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services add complexity. The ultimate "Arthritis Score" for a prospective resident will depend on their individual needs, their ability to drive or utilize alternative **transportation** options, and their willingness to plan and adapt to the realities of **healthcare access** in this beautiful coastal community.