39743, Crawford, Mississippi Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 39743, Crawford, Mississippi is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.18 percent of residents in 39743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Noxubee General Critical Access Hosp with a distance of 13.67 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crawford, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39743)

Crawford, Mississippi, a small town nestled in Lowndes County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, the serene landscape can present challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing arthritis. This "Arthritis Score" write-up assesses the accessibility of medical resources for those with arthritis in ZIP Code 39743, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for potential residents, especially those considering moving to Crawford.

The primary concern for arthritis sufferers is consistent access to medical appointments, physical therapy, and medication refills. This requires reliable and efficient transportation. In Crawford, the transportation landscape is dominated by personal vehicles. Public transportation is limited, and alternative options are scarce. The absence of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles significantly impact the Arthritis Score.

The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Columbus, Mississippi, approximately 15 miles north of Crawford. This distance necessitates travel, and the quality of that journey directly affects the ease of healthcare access. The most direct route is via **Highway 45**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving time to Columbus can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. However, for those with arthritis, even a short drive can be physically demanding.

Another route involves utilizing **Highway 182** east to Columbus. This option adds a few minutes to the travel time but may offer a less congested alternative, especially during peak hours. Secondary roads like **County Road 11** and **County Road 10** provide alternative routes but are generally slower and less well-maintained, potentially exacerbating discomfort for arthritis patients. The condition of these roads can affect ride quality and increase travel time.

Public transportation options in Crawford are extremely limited. The Lowndes County Transit Authority provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not designed to prioritize healthcare access. Information on specific routes, bus numbers, and ADA-compliant features is difficult to obtain and often unavailable. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system significantly lowers the Arthritis Score.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Columbus but are less readily available in Crawford. Securing a ride may require advance planning and could be subject to longer wait times and higher fares. The reliability of ride-sharing services in this area is not guaranteed, making it an unreliable option for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are available, but their cost and availability can be a barrier. These services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are typically reserved for individuals with severe mobility issues or those requiring stretcher transport. The expense of these services is a significant factor for many residents.

The Arthritis Score for Crawford, Mississippi, is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services create challenges for individuals with arthritis. This makes healthcare access more difficult, potentially leading to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and a decline in overall health.

For those considering moving to Crawford, the transportation factor is crucial. Individuals with arthritis should carefully evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The lack of readily available transportation also influences the availability of specialized care. While Columbus offers a range of medical specialists, including rheumatologists, the ability to access these specialists is directly tied to transportation. The longer travel times and limited options make it harder to see a specialist regularly.

Furthermore, the absence of convenient transportation impacts access to physical therapy and other rehabilitation services. Physical therapy is a critical component of arthritis management, and regular attendance is essential for maintaining mobility and reducing pain. The challenges of traveling to and from physical therapy appointments can discourage patients from seeking this vital care.

The impact of transportation extends to medication access. While pharmacies are available in Crawford, the need to travel to Columbus for specialized medications or prescriptions can be a burden. The lack of reliable transportation can lead to delays in obtaining medications, potentially impacting treatment adherence and disease management.

The Arthritis Score also considers the availability of accessible parking at healthcare facilities. Even if transportation is available, the lack of convenient parking, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, can create additional challenges. Healthcare facilities in Columbus generally offer accessible parking, but the distance from the parking space to the clinic entrance can still be a factor.

The overall Arthritis Score for Crawford, Mississippi, is lower than that of urban areas with robust public transportation systems and readily available ride-sharing services. The challenges associated with transportation significantly impact healthcare access for individuals with arthritis.

Therefore, for prospective residents with arthritis, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the available options is essential. Moving to Crawford requires careful consideration of the limitations of the transportation infrastructure and the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and potentially utilizing support from family, friends, or community resources are crucial for successfully managing arthritis in this rural setting.