39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.82 percent of residents in 39189 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Leake with a distance of 11.84 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Walnut Grove (ZIP Code 39189)

The crisp air of Walnut Grove, Mississippi, might seem idyllic, but for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare in this rural community requires careful consideration. This write-up, the "Asthma Score," meticulously examines transportation options within ZIP code 39189, focusing on their impact on healthcare access. It’s an essential guide for anyone, especially those *moving to Walnut Grove*, who need to understand the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a clear picture, enabling informed decisions about health and well-being.

The Asthma Score considers several factors. Drive times to medical facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options are all crucial. Each factor is weighed, contributing to an overall score that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare services. This information is vital for individuals with asthma, who require timely access to medical care, especially during exacerbations.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of *transportation* in Walnut Grove is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to healthcare providers is paramount. The nearest hospital, *Attala County Medical Center* in Kosciusko, is approximately a 30-minute drive via **MS-35 South**. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours or when agricultural equipment is moving. Delays can be detrimental for asthma sufferers needing urgent care.

Specialist care often necessitates travel beyond Kosciusko. Jackson, the state capital, offers a wider array of specialists and hospitals. The drive to Jackson, primarily via **I-20 West**, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer journey exposes individuals to potential traffic congestion, increasing the risk of delays. The condition of **I-20** is generally good, but construction or accidents can significantly impact travel times.

For routine appointments, clinics in Philadelphia, MS, accessible via **MS-16 East**, present a closer option. The drive is around 20 minutes. This is a more manageable commute, offering a potentially less stressful experience for those with asthma. The roads are generally in good condition, but vigilance is still necessary.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Walnut Grove are extremely limited. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. This is a critical consideration for individuals with asthma who may not be able to drive due to their condition or other limitations.

There is no regular bus service within the ZIP code. The nearest public transit options are likely to be found in larger cities like Jackson, requiring a multi-leg journey that is impractical for routine healthcare needs. The absence of public transit underscores the importance of alternative *transportation* solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Walnut Grove. This lack of access further restricts *transportation* choices. This absence highlights the need for alternative solutions, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Medical *transportation* services, designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a vital resource. Several companies operate in the area, including *First Choice Medical Transportation* and *MedStar Ambulance Service*. These services provide non-emergency and emergency medical *transportation*. However, availability and cost can be significant factors. Booking in advance is often necessary, and insurance coverage varies.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, including those with severe asthma, the accessibility of *transportation* options is paramount. Public transit, if available, must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. This includes features like ramps, lifts, and accessible seating. The lack of public transit in Walnut Grove makes this a moot point, but it underscores the importance of considering the accessibility of medical *transportation* services.

Medical *transportation* providers must also comply with ADA regulations. This includes ensuring vehicles are accessible and that staff are trained to assist individuals with disabilities. Inquiring about ADA compliance is essential when selecting a medical *transportation* provider.

**The Asthma Score: A Summary**

The Asthma Score for Walnut Grove (ZIP Code 39189) reflects a challenging *transportation* landscape for individuals managing asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to *healthcare access*.

Drive times to hospitals and specialist care can be lengthy, potentially delaying access to critical medical attention. The lack of public *transportation* disproportionately impacts those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. Medical *transportation* services offer a vital lifeline, but availability and cost can be limiting factors.

For anyone *moving to Walnut Grove* with asthma, careful planning is essential. Establishing relationships with local medical *transportation* providers, identifying reliable friends or family for *transportation*, and understanding the potential for delays are all crucial steps. Proactive planning can mitigate the challenges and ensure timely access to healthcare.

The Asthma Score for Walnut Grove is a reminder of the importance of considering *transportation* infrastructure when evaluating healthcare access. It is a call to action, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access for all residents, especially those with chronic conditions like asthma.