39054, Cary, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39054, Cary, Mississippi is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.80 percent of residents in 39054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Cary, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39054)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of Mississippi humidity in Cary, a small town nestled in the heart of the Delta. For residents managing asthma, navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a daily reality, interwoven with the challenges of transportation. This “Asthma Score” write-up delves into the critical intersection of these factors, examining the practicalities of reaching medical care within and beyond the boundaries of ZIP code 39054. The focus is on understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and how these choices impact the lives of those with respiratory sensitivities.

Cary, Mississippi, is a rural community, and this geographical characteristic significantly shapes the landscape of healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating travel. This journey, for an individual managing asthma, is not merely about distance; it’s about the potential for exposure to triggers, the availability of immediate care in case of an exacerbation, and the overall stress of the commute.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Cary is the personal vehicle. The town is primarily served by **Mississippi Highway 14**, which acts as the main artery, connecting Cary to the wider region. To reach the nearest major healthcare facilities, residents typically embark on a drive to either Yazoo City (approximately 25 miles east) or Rolling Fork (approximately 15 miles west). The drive to Yazoo City, home to the **Sharkey-Issaquena Community Hospital**, takes roughly 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route involves traveling east on Highway 14, then turning onto **Highway 49W** to reach the hospital.

Rolling Fork, a shorter drive, offers access to the **Sharkey County Hospital**. This journey involves heading west on Highway 14. However, the availability of specialized care is more limited in Rolling Fork compared to Yazoo City. Both journeys, however, present challenges. The condition of the roads, especially after inclement weather, can be a factor, potentially adding to travel time and stress. Moreover, for those without reliable transportation, these distances can be a significant barrier.

Public transportation options in the area are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Cary. The lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive, have limited mobility, or cannot afford the cost of a personal vehicle. This absence of public transit is a critical factor in evaluating the Asthma Score for this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also not readily available in Cary. The sparse population density and rural nature of the area make it economically unfeasible for these services to operate regularly. This leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, family members, or friends for transportation.

Medical transportation services offer a potential solution for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. These services, however, can be costly, and their availability may be limited, particularly during peak hours or in emergency situations. Scheduling and advance notice are often required, which can be problematic for unexpected asthma exacerbations.

The journey to healthcare in Cary can be further complicated by the potential for exposure to asthma triggers during transit. Pollen, dust, and other allergens can be prevalent, especially during certain seasons. Furthermore, the air quality inside vehicles, particularly those with inadequate air filtration systems, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms. The stress of the commute itself can also trigger asthma attacks, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Cary, the availability of healthcare access should be a primary consideration, particularly for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions. The lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive medical transport services all contribute to a lower Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score for ZIP code 39054 would be negatively impacted by the absence of public transportation and ride-sharing services. The reliance on personal vehicles, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the potential for exposure to triggers during the commute all contribute to a higher risk for individuals with asthma. The limited availability of specialized medical care within close proximity also adds to the challenges.

The development of a more robust transportation infrastructure, including public transit options, could significantly improve healthcare access for residents of Cary. This would involve advocating for increased funding for transportation initiatives, partnering with local healthcare providers to establish transportation programs, and exploring the feasibility of ride-sharing services in the area.

The overall Asthma Score for Cary, Mississippi, reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. The lack of readily available transportation options, combined with the distance to healthcare facilities, presents significant hurdles for individuals managing asthma. Improving transportation infrastructure and exploring alternative solutions are crucial steps toward ensuring that residents of Cary have equitable access to the medical care they need.