39039, Benton, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39039, Benton, Mississippi is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.01 percent of residents in 39039 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Madison with a distance of 19.95 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Benton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39039)

The crisp air of Benton, Mississippi, a town nestled in Yazoo County, often promises respite. However, for residents managing asthma, the very act of accessing healthcare, particularly during an exacerbation, can become a significant challenge. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 39039, evaluating the ease and accessibility of reaching essential medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for individuals considering moving to Benton or already residing there. The goal is to illuminate the realities of **healthcare access** within this community, especially for those with respiratory conditions.

The primary determinant of a successful healthcare journey in Benton is the personal vehicle. The town’s relative isolation and limited public transportation options mean that driving is often the most practical, and sometimes the only, choice. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Yazoo City and Jackson, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Driving from Benton to the nearest hospital, Yazoo County Hospital in Yazoo City, typically involves a journey of approximately 15-20 minutes, covering around 15 miles. The most direct route utilizes **Highway 49W**, a well-maintained thoroughfare offering a relatively smooth and predictable ride. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or in the event of an accident, can significantly extend this travel time.

For more specialized care, residents often need to travel to Jackson, approximately 60 miles away. This journey, taking roughly an hour to an hour and a half, typically involves navigating **Highway 49W** south to its intersection with **Interstate 20**. From there, the interstate provides a more rapid route into the city. The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a major tertiary care facility, and numerous other hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Jackson. However, the potential for delays on I-20, due to accidents or heavy traffic, remains a constant concern.

Public **transportation** options in Benton are extremely limited, significantly impacting **healthcare access**. There is no established local bus system within the town itself. The availability of public transit is virtually nonexistent, posing a considerable barrier for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This lack of public transit underscores the importance of private **transportation** options.

The absence of a local bus system means that ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant public transit options are unavailable, further exacerbating the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This is a critical consideration for asthma sufferers who may experience breathlessness and require accessible **transportation** to and from medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Jackson metropolitan area. However, their availability in Benton is less certain. While a ride might be secured, the response time and the cost are likely to be higher than in a larger urban center. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during emergencies or adverse weather conditions, is also a factor to consider.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative for those unable to drive or utilize ride-sharing. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** providers. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges and medical needs.

However, the cost of these services can be significant, and the availability of specific services may vary. It's crucial for residents to research and understand the coverage offered by their insurance plans for medical **transportation**. Furthermore, the response time for medical transport services, particularly during peak demand or in emergencies, can be a critical factor.

For individuals considering **moving to Benton**, the availability and accessibility of **healthcare access** should be a primary consideration, especially for those with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services all contribute to a complex landscape.

The Asthma Score for Benton, Mississippi, reflects a challenging environment for individuals requiring regular medical care. The lack of robust public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for delays on the roads all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation. The remoteness of the area and the distance to specialized medical facilities add to the difficulty.

The **transportation** challenges in Benton underscore the importance of proactive planning for asthma sufferers. Establishing a reliable **transportation** plan, identifying backup options, and understanding the availability of medical **transportation** services are all crucial steps.

The limited **healthcare access** options in Benton highlight the need for residents to be well-prepared. This includes maintaining a well-stocked supply of asthma medication, having a clear asthma action plan, and knowing the location of the nearest emergency medical facilities.

The lack of readily available public transit in Benton is a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or financial resources. This deficiency underscores the importance of community initiatives aimed at improving **transportation** options for vulnerable populations.

The success of navigating the healthcare system in Benton hinges on preparedness and resourcefulness. Residents must proactively address the **transportation** challenges and ensure they have a reliable means of reaching medical care, especially during asthma exacerbations.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Benton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39039) is a moderate to low rating. While the drive to Yazoo City is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles, the distance to Jackson, and the lack of public transit create significant obstacles to **healthcare access**. Individuals with asthma considering **moving to Benton** should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and develop a comprehensive plan to manage their healthcare requirements effectively.