39477, Sandersville, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39477, Sandersville, Mississippi is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.30 percent of residents in 39477 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Central Reg Med Ctr with a distance of 9.47 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Sandersville, MS (ZIP Code 39477)

The air hangs thick with the promise of Southern summers in Sandersville, Mississippi, a town nestled in the heart of Jones County. For individuals managing asthma, this humid embrace can present challenges, making access to timely healthcare critical. This write-up provides an “Asthma Score” assessment of transportation options available within and to ZIP code 39477, focusing on the practicalities of reaching medical facilities. This is crucial for anyone considering moving to Sandersville, as reliable transportation is a key factor in managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The primary determinant of an “Asthma Score” in this context is the ease with which a resident can access necessary medical care. This includes routine check-ups, urgent care visits, and emergency room services. The assessment considers the availability, reliability, and accessibility of various transportation modes. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in Sandersville.

Driving remains the most common method of transportation in this region. From the center of Sandersville, a drive to the nearest major healthcare provider, South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, requires navigating approximately 25 miles. The journey primarily involves traveling south on **Highway 11**, a major artery through Jones County. Expect a drive time of around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which are generally light. Another option is to take **Highway 84** east to Laurel, which is a slightly longer route, adding about 5 to 10 minutes to the drive.

For residents living further out, particularly in the rural areas surrounding Sandersville, drive times can increase significantly. Those residing in the northern or western parts of the zip code might face longer commutes, potentially exceeding an hour to reach the hospital in Laurel. This extended travel time can be a significant concern during an asthma exacerbation, where immediate medical attention is crucial.

Public transportation options in Sandersville are limited. Jones County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This severely restricts healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The lack of public transit is a significant factor in lowering the “Asthma Score” for individuals reliant on alternative modes of transportation. There is no indication of ADA-compliant features on any public transit routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Sandersville, but their availability is variable. While these services may be present, response times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in the more remote areas of the zip code. The reliability of ride-sharing services in an emergency situation is questionable, making it a less-than-ideal option for individuals with asthma. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing further diminishes the “Asthma Score.”

Specialized medical transportation services are an important consideration. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who are unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of NEMT services can vary, and pre-booking is often required. This necessitates careful planning and coordination, which can add to the stress of managing asthma.

The “Asthma Score” is affected by the availability of emergency medical services (EMS). In the event of an asthma attack requiring immediate medical attention, the response time of an ambulance is critical. The Sandersville Fire Department and Jones County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provide emergency medical services. Response times will vary depending on the location within the zip code, but the goal is to arrive as quickly as possible. The proximity to the South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel is a positive factor, allowing for rapid transport to a fully equipped emergency room.

The availability of pharmacies within Sandersville is another crucial element. Having easy access to medication refills and asthma management supplies is essential. Several pharmacies are located within the town, making it convenient for residents to obtain their necessary medications. This factor positively impacts the “Asthma Score.”

Healthcare access is not solely determined by transportation. The availability of qualified healthcare providers specializing in asthma care is also essential. Sandersville has a limited number of pulmonologists or allergists. Residents may need to travel to Laurel or other larger cities for specialized care. This adds to the overall transportation burden, impacting the “Asthma Score.”

Considering all these factors, the “Asthma Score” for transportation in ZIP code 39477 is moderate. While driving provides the most reliable access, the lack of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services limit options for those without personal vehicles. The need for potentially longer travel times to specialized care and the reliance on emergency services further underscore the importance of careful planning and preparedness for individuals with asthma considering moving to Sandersville.

The overall “Asthma Score” is influenced by several factors, including the availability of transportation, the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized care, and the presence of local pharmacies. For someone with asthma, the ability to quickly and reliably access medical care is paramount. The limitations of public transit and ride-sharing, coupled with the potential for longer drive times, necessitate careful consideration for individuals with asthma contemplating a move to Sandersville. The “Asthma Score” can be improved by exploring all available transportation options and making a plan for accessing healthcare.