39322, Buckatunna, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39322, Buckatunna, Mississippi is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.16 percent of residents in 39322 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne General Hospital with a distance of 10.15 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Buckatunna, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39322)

Buckatunna, Mississippi, a small community nestled in the heart of Wayne County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents managing asthma. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for those with respiratory conditions, is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up explores the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions, all crucial factors influencing healthcare access for individuals considering moving to Buckatunna or currently residing within ZIP code 39322.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Buckatunna revolves around the nearest medical facilities. The Wayne General Hospital in Waynesboro, approximately 15 miles east, is the most readily available option. This journey typically involves navigating along Highway 45, a major north-south artery, and then transitioning onto Highway 84 East. Drive times, depending on traffic and weather conditions, generally range from 20 to 30 minutes. The roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience occasional delays, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather.

Another viable healthcare option is the Rush Health Systems in Meridian, approximately 50 miles northwest of Buckatunna. This trip necessitates traveling on Highway 45 North, a longer commute that can take anywhere from an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. While offering a wider range of specialized services, the extended travel time poses a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, potentially exacerbating symptoms during a medical emergency. This extended travel time demands careful planning and consideration, especially during flare-ups.

Public transportation options within Buckatunna are limited. Wayne County does not currently have a county-wide public transit system. This lack of public transportation presents a significant hurdle for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their condition. Healthcare access becomes severely restricted, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, impacting overall health outcomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Buckatunna. Their presence is sporadic, and reliability is not guaranteed. This further limits transportation options, particularly for those requiring immediate medical attention or regular check-ups. Relying on ride-sharing for scheduled appointments is risky, given the potential for delays or unavailability.

Medical transportation services offer a lifeline for individuals with asthma, particularly those requiring assistance with mobility or facing significant travel challenges. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and Priority Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services in the area. These services offer a crucial link to healthcare facilities, providing a safe and reliable means of transportation for medical appointments, treatments, and other healthcare-related needs.

For individuals with disabilities, ADA-compliant transportation is essential. While public transit is lacking, NEMT services are often equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to healthcare services. When considering moving to Buckatunna, verifying the availability and accessibility of NEMT services is crucial for individuals with asthma.

The "Asthma Score" for Buckatunna, 39322, reflects the interplay of these factors. While the proximity of Wayne General Hospital provides a relatively short commute, the absence of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant transportation barriers. The reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services necessitates careful planning and financial considerations.

The accessibility of healthcare significantly influences the quality of life for individuals with asthma. The ability to reach medical professionals, access medications, and receive timely treatment is paramount for managing the condition effectively. In Buckatunna, the transportation landscape presents both challenges and opportunities.

The primary challenge stems from the limited public transportation options. This lack of accessibility disproportionately affects individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This lack of transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and a decline in overall health.

The opportunities lie in the availability of medical transport services and the relatively short drive to Wayne General Hospital. These options provide a crucial link to healthcare, ensuring that individuals with asthma can access the care they need. However, the reliance on these services necessitates careful planning and financial considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Buckatunna, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Understanding the availability and cost of medical transport services, the reliability of personal vehicles, and the potential for assistance from family or friends is crucial.

The "Asthma Score" for Buckatunna is not a simple numerical value. It is a complex assessment of the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals with asthma in accessing healthcare within this rural community.

Navigating the transportation landscape in Buckatunna requires proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of available resources. While the community may lack extensive public transportation options, the availability of medical transport services and the proximity of Wayne General Hospital offer a degree of healthcare access. For individuals with asthma, carefully evaluating these factors is essential when considering moving to Buckatunna or when seeking to optimize healthcare access within ZIP code 39322.

The "Asthma Score" encourages individuals to proactively address transportation needs, exploring all available options and developing a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare services. This proactive approach is essential for managing asthma effectively and maintaining a high quality of life within the community.