39150, Port Gibson, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39150, Port Gibson, Mississippi is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.04 percent of residents in 39150 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claiborne County Hospital with a distance of 0.34 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Port Gibson, MS (ZIP Code 39150)

The air hangs heavy with the Mississippi humidity, a constant companion in Port Gibson, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39150). For those managing asthma, this environment presents a unique set of challenges, demanding careful consideration of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" analyzes the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care, a critical factor for anyone contemplating a move or already residing within the community. The analysis focuses on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Port Gibson is **US-61**, a historic highway that snakes its way north and south. Accessing specialist care often necessitates a drive to Vicksburg, approximately 30 miles north. The drive along US-61, typically taking around 45 minutes, can become arduous during peak traffic hours or inclement weather, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms for patients. Further, the road conditions themselves can impact travel times and, in turn, health outcomes.

Another key route is **MS-149**, which connects Port Gibson to the east. This road provides an alternative route, but it is primarily a rural road, with limited access to major healthcare facilities. The condition of MS-149 can also be a factor, as potholes and uneven surfaces can make the journey uncomfortable, particularly for those with breathing difficulties.

Public transportation options in Port Gibson are limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles. The absence of a robust public transportation system in Port Gibson presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may not be able to drive or afford private transportation. The lack of options restricts healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Vicksburg area, but their presence in Port Gibson is sporadic and unreliable. This lack of consistent ride-sharing options can create significant barriers to accessing healthcare appointments, particularly during evenings or weekends. The availability of ride-sharing services can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the demand, potentially leaving patients stranded or forced to rely on less reliable transportation options.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another critical consideration. These services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a lifeline for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting healthcare access.

The nearest major hospitals and specialist care facilities are located in Vicksburg, including Merit Health River Region and the Vicksburg Medical Center. Accessing these facilities often involves navigating the aforementioned roadways. The distance and potential traffic congestion can add significant stress to patients with asthma, potentially triggering or worsening their symptoms.

The journey to Vicksburg also involves crossing the Mississippi River. The bridge crossings can be affected by weather conditions, adding to travel time and potentially increasing stress levels for patients. The river crossing, therefore, must be factored into the assessment of healthcare access.

For those considering a move to Port Gibson, the availability of healthcare access should be a major consideration. The limited transportation options and the distance to major medical facilities pose challenges for asthma patients. The lack of consistent public transportation and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to accessing timely medical care.

The availability of medical transport services is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. These services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a lifeline for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. The availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting healthcare access.

The absence of specialized asthma care within Port Gibson necessitates travel to Vicksburg or beyond, adding to the complexity of managing the condition. The need for specialized care highlights the importance of understanding the transportation challenges.

The "Asthma Score" for Port Gibson, therefore, reflects a landscape where healthcare access is significantly influenced by transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing, and the limited public transportation options create challenges for asthma patients. The distance to major medical facilities and the potential for traffic congestion further compound these challenges.

For individuals with asthma, careful planning and consideration of transportation options are essential when living in or moving to Port Gibson. Understanding the limitations of the transportation infrastructure is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care. The "Asthma Score" serves as a reminder that transportation is inextricably linked to healthcare access, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like asthma.