39501, Gulfport, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39501, Gulfport, Mississippi is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.19 percent of residents in 39501 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital At Gulfport with a distance of 4.83 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 39501

The decision to relocate, particularly to a new environment like Gulfport, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39501), demands careful consideration of numerous factors. For individuals managing asthma, a critical aspect of this assessment is healthcare access, intricately linked to the available transportation options. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare within 39501, providing a comprehensive overview of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements in ensuring timely and reliable access to medical care.

Gulfport, a vibrant coastal city, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for those with asthma. The humid climate, coupled with potential allergens, can exacerbate symptoms. Therefore, understanding the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities is paramount. This analysis aims to equip potential residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Driving the Route to Relief:**

For many, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. Within 39501, navigating the roads to healthcare facilities involves understanding peak traffic patterns and potential bottlenecks. The primary arteries for accessing hospitals and clinics are US Highway 90, known locally as Beach Boulevard, and Interstate 10 (I-10).

Traveling east on US Highway 90, one can reach Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, a major healthcare provider. The drive time, during off-peak hours, is typically under 15 minutes from most areas within 39501. However, during rush hour, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, this commute can easily extend to 25-30 minutes, especially near major intersections like Cowan Road and Pass Road.

Heading north, I-10 provides another route to healthcare. The interstate offers faster travel times, but it is often subject to congestion. Depending on the origin point within 39501, reaching facilities like Garden Park Medical Center in Gulfport via I-10 can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Exiting I-10 at the appropriate interchanges, such as Cowan Road or Pass Road, is crucial for efficient access.

Smaller clinics and specialty practices are scattered throughout the city, often accessible via local roads like 25th Avenue, 19th Street, and Pass Road. Drive times to these facilities vary significantly depending on location, but generally, travel within 39501 should be manageable, even during peak hours, with careful planning.

**Public Transit: A Bus Ride to Wellness:**

The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides public transportation throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast, including Gulfport. Several bus routes serve the 39501 area, offering an alternative to driving. While public transit can be a cost-effective option, it is essential to consider travel times and accessibility features.

Route 41, for example, runs along US Highway 90, providing access to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport and other medical facilities along the route. The bus typically operates on a regular schedule, but delays can occur due to traffic. The CTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, it's crucial to confirm the availability of accessible features on specific routes and buses.

Route 40, another important route, travels north-south, connecting various parts of Gulfport. This route could be useful for accessing clinics located away from the main thoroughfares. Route 40's schedule and accessibility features should be carefully reviewed to determine its suitability for individual needs.

The CTA website and mobile app provide detailed route maps, schedules, and real-time tracking information. Planning a trip using public transit requires careful consideration of these resources to ensure timely arrival at medical appointments. The time spent waiting for buses and the potential for delays must be factored into the overall travel time.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Healthcare Access:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option for transportation to healthcare facilities. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering convenience and flexibility. However, availability and pricing can vary depending on demand and time of day.

In 39501, ride-sharing services are generally available, but it's crucial to check for availability, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited service. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services provide specialized transportation, often with trained personnel and equipment. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local providers offer NEMT services for those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments.

The cost of medical transportation can be significant, and insurance coverage may vary. It's crucial to verify insurance coverage and explore all available options before relying on medical transportation services. These services are often a vital lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

**Asthma Score Considerations and Moving to Gulfport:**

When evaluating healthcare access in 39501 for someone with asthma, several factors should be considered. Drive times, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact the ability to reach medical care promptly. Public transit, while offering a cost-effective alternative, requires careful planning and consideration of travel times and accessibility. Ride-sharing and medical transportation provide additional options, but their availability and cost must be assessed.

For those considering moving to Gulfport with asthma, a comprehensive evaluation of these transportation options is crucial. Researching the proximity of potential residences to healthcare facilities, understanding the CTA routes and schedules, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services are essential steps.

Furthermore, the overall healthcare landscape in Gulfport should be considered. The availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists is critical. The quality of care provided by local hospitals and clinics is another important factor.

By carefully assessing these factors, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about relocating to Gulfport, ensuring that they have reliable and convenient access to the medical care they need. This "Asthma Score" provides a framework for evaluating transportation options, empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of healthcare access in 39501 and make a well-informed decision about their future. The availability of diverse transportation options, combined with a robust healthcare infrastructure, can contribute to a higher quality of life for those managing asthma in this coastal community.