39327, Decatur, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39327, Decatur, Mississippi is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.84 percent of residents in 39327 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Laird Hospital with a distance of 9.47 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Decatur, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39327)

Decatur, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Newton County, presents a unique landscape for those managing asthma. This Asthma Score write-up analyzes the accessibility of healthcare within ZIP Code 39327, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patients' ability to receive timely medical attention. Evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services paints a comprehensive picture of healthcare access, crucial for anyone considering moving to Decatur or currently residing within the area.

The primary concern for individuals with asthma is the promptness of care. Asthma attacks can escalate rapidly, necessitating immediate medical intervention. This is where transportation becomes paramount. The ability to quickly reach a healthcare provider can significantly impact a patient's outcome. Therefore, this analysis prioritizes the speed and reliability of available transportation methods.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

The backbone of transportation in Decatur is the road network. Driving is the most common mode of transportation, offering the most direct route to healthcare facilities. However, drive times can vary considerably depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and the specific destination.

The primary artery for travel within and around Decatur is **Highway 80**, which runs east-west. This highway provides access to larger cities like Meridian, approximately 30 miles to the east, where more specialized medical services may be available. Travel time to Meridian via Highway 80 can range from 35 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

**Highway 15**, a north-south route, intersects Highway 80 in Decatur. This highway offers access to smaller towns and communities to the north and south, where primary care physicians and urgent care facilities may be located. Drive times on Highway 15 are generally shorter than those on Highway 80, but the availability of specialized care may be limited.

Within Decatur itself, local roads and streets provide access to healthcare providers. These roads, including **Main Street** and **Church Street**, are generally less congested than the highways, but their condition and the presence of traffic lights can impact travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Decatur are extremely limited. Newton County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their medical condition.

There are no readily available public bus routes within Decatur or Newton County. This absence significantly restricts healthcare access for those reliant on public transportation. The lack of public transit necessitates reliance on other, potentially less reliable, modes of transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are often considered a viable alternative to public transit. However, the availability of these services in Decatur is uncertain. The presence of ride-sharing services is dependent on driver availability and demand. In a rural area like Decatur, the frequency of service may be limited, and wait times could be extended.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, and they may offer assistance with mobility and other needs.

Several medical transport providers may serve the Decatur area. These providers include **American Medical Response (AMR)**, **Rural/Metro Corporation**, and local ambulance services. These services are crucial for patients who require assistance with transportation or have mobility limitations. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Evaluation**

Healthcare access in Decatur, for individuals with asthma, is largely dependent on personal vehicle ownership and the ability to drive. The lack of public transit and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for those without access to a car.

Drive times to healthcare providers within Decatur are generally reasonable, but access to specialized care in larger cities like Meridian requires longer travel times. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for patients with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

**ADA Accessibility and Considerations**

It's essential to consider the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of available transportation options. While the absence of public transit limits ADA-compliant options, medical transport services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Ride-sharing services, if available, may also offer accessible vehicle options, but this is not guaranteed.

**Moving to Decatur: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Decatur, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning.

Potential residents should research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. Understanding the drive times to various medical providers, including specialists in Meridian, is also crucial.

**Asthma Score Summary**

The Asthma Score for Decatur, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39327) reflects a mixed picture. While drive times within the immediate area are generally manageable, the lack of public transit and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for some patients. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess personal transportation:** Evaluate vehicle ownership and driving ability.
* **Research medical transport:** Identify and contact local medical transport providers.
* **Plan for emergencies:** Establish a plan for accessing medical care during an asthma attack.
* **Consider proximity:** Prioritize housing locations closer to healthcare facilities.
* **Inquire about ride-sharing:** Investigate the availability of ride-sharing services.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require in Decatur.