39437, Ellisville, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39437, Ellisville, Mississippi is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.04 percent of residents in 39437 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Central Reg Med Ctr with a distance of 7.46 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Ellisville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39437)

Relocating to a new community, especially with health considerations like asthma, necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" delves into the transportation landscape of Ellisville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39437), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of available transportation options, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey, particularly if they are considering moving to Ellisville.

Ellisville, a charming town nestled in Jones County, offers a slower pace of life. However, the realities of healthcare access demand careful examination. The primary challenge lies in the relative scarcity of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles. This is a crucial factor for individuals managing asthma, where timely access to medical professionals and medications is paramount.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The cornerstone of transportation in Ellisville is the automobile. Driving times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, which are generally light in this region. The primary thoroughfare is **Highway 11**, running north-south, providing direct access to Jones County Hospital, located in Laurel. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Ellisville.

Another significant route is **Highway 84**, traversing east-west. This highway provides access to various medical specialists and urgent care facilities in Laurel and further afield in Hattiesburg. Travel time to Hattiesburg, a regional hub for healthcare, is roughly 30-45 minutes, influenced by the distance and potential traffic bottlenecks.

Navigating the smaller local roads, such as **Main Street** and **Court Street**, is generally straightforward. However, these roads are often subject to congestion during peak hours, especially near schools and commercial areas. Residents should factor in these potential delays when planning healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options are unfortunately limited in Ellisville and the surrounding areas. Jones County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This poses a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, particularly those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates exploring alternative transportation strategies. This underscores the importance of understanding ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ellisville, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Ride-sharing can provide a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative to driving, particularly for short trips to local healthcare providers. However, the reliability of these services, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, should be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services offer specialized support for individuals with specific healthcare needs. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and treatments. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized companies. These services are often covered by insurance, but pre-authorization and scheduling are typically required.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

For individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. Ride-sharing services generally offer accessible vehicles, though availability should be confirmed in advance. Medical transportation services are often equipped with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

The primary healthcare provider in the area is Jones County Hospital in Laurel. The hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized clinics, and rehabilitation services. Access to Jones County Hospital via Highway 11 is relatively straightforward.

Other healthcare options include clinics and specialist practices in Laurel and Hattiesburg. The accessibility of these facilities varies. Individuals should contact the specific provider to inquire about ADA compliance and available accommodations.

**Asthma-Specific Considerations:**

For individuals with asthma, proximity to emergency care is critical. The ability to quickly reach a hospital or urgent care facility in case of an asthma exacerbation is paramount. The drive times to Jones County Hospital and other emergency facilities should be carefully considered when evaluating the suitability of Ellisville as a place to live.

Furthermore, access to pharmacies for prescription refills is essential. Ellisville has local pharmacies, but the availability of specific medications should be verified. The ease of access to these pharmacies, either by car or through alternative transportation, is a crucial factor.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Asthma Score" for Ellisville, Mississippi, reveals a transportation landscape heavily reliant on personal vehicles. While driving times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the limited public transit options necessitate careful consideration of alternative transportation strategies. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offer viable options, but their availability and cost should be carefully evaluated.

For individuals with asthma, the proximity to emergency care, access to pharmacies, and the overall ease of transportation are crucial factors. Potential residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare providers, the reliability of transportation options, and the accessibility of medical facilities. By carefully assessing these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey and ensure that they can access the medical care they need in a timely and efficient manner. Moving to Ellisville requires a proactive approach to healthcare planning, ensuring that the benefits of a smaller community are not overshadowed by transportation challenges.