39574, Saucier, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39574, Saucier, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.43 percent of residents in 39574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Gulfport with a distance of 10.72 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Saucier, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39574)

Moving to a new area requires careful consideration, especially for individuals managing asthma. The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is paramount. This Asthma Score write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Saucier, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39574), providing a detailed assessment of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods. This information will assist in making informed decisions regarding healthcare access and overall quality of life.

Saucier, a charming community nestled in the heart of Harrison County, offers a slower pace of life. However, its relative remoteness presents challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary determinant of this Asthma Score is the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The analysis considers the availability and efficiency of various transportation options.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Route**

For most residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfare serving Saucier is Mississippi Highway 49, a vital artery connecting the area to larger cities and healthcare hubs. Access to specialized care often necessitates travel to Gulfport or Biloxi.

From Saucier, driving south on Highway 49 provides direct access to Gulfport, approximately 20 miles away. The drive time, under ideal traffic conditions, is around 30 to 40 minutes. This route provides access to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, a major regional medical center offering comprehensive services, including pulmonology and allergy specialists crucial for asthma management.

Heading east on Highway 49 leads to Biloxi, roughly 30 miles away. The drive typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Biloxi boasts several healthcare facilities, including the Merit Health Biloxi, which provides diverse medical care.

Navigating these routes requires careful attention to traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Rush hour congestion can significantly increase drive times, potentially impacting timely access to medical care during an asthma exacerbation.

**Secondary Roads and Considerations**

While Highway 49 is the primary route, alternative roads offer potential options. Mississippi Highway 53, running parallel to Highway 49, provides another route to the south, although it involves more rural roads and may not be as direct. Local roads, such as Saucier-Perkinston Road, can offer access to smaller clinics and pharmacies within the community.

Road conditions are also a factor. While the main highways are generally well-maintained, rural roads may experience potholes or other issues, potentially affecting travel times and the comfort of individuals with respiratory conditions.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Saucier and the surrounding areas are limited. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service throughout Harrison County, but service frequency and route coverage are not extensive in Saucier.

The CTA Route 2, which travels along Highway 49, offers some degree of public transit access. However, the frequency of buses is typically hourly or less frequent, and the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. ADA-accessible buses are available on the CTA system, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Relying solely on public transportation for healthcare access in Saucier presents significant challenges. Long wait times, limited route coverage, and potential delays can make it difficult to reach medical appointments promptly.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering another transportation option. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Ride-sharing fares can also be a significant expense, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including Med-Trans Corporation and First Response Ambulance.

While medical transportation services offer a valuable solution, they can be costly and require advance booking. The need to schedule transportation in advance may not be ideal during an asthma emergency.

**Pharmacies and Local Healthcare Access**

Access to pharmacies is crucial for managing asthma. Saucier has local pharmacies, providing convenient access to medications and essential supplies. However, the availability of specialized asthma medications or equipment might be limited, necessitating travel to larger pharmacies in Gulfport or Biloxi.

Local clinics in Saucier offer primary care services, including some asthma management. However, access to specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, typically requires travel to larger medical centers.

**The Asthma Score: A Summary**

The Asthma Score for Saucier, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39574) reflects a mixed picture. While the availability of driving routes to healthcare facilities is relatively good, public transportation options are limited. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide alternatives, but they come with potential drawbacks, including cost and availability.

The score emphasizes the importance of personal transportation. Individuals with asthma moving to Saucier should prioritize having a reliable vehicle and understanding potential traffic delays on Highway 49. Exploring the availability of local healthcare providers and pharmacies is also crucial.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Asthma**

Individuals with asthma considering moving to Saucier should take the following steps:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Ensure access to a reliable vehicle and understand the drive times to healthcare facilities.
* **Research Local Healthcare Providers:** Identify local clinics and pharmacies and confirm their ability to meet asthma-related needs.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Investigate medical transportation services in the area and understand their costs and booking procedures.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop an emergency plan, including identifying the nearest emergency room and understanding how to access it quickly.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If possible, consider housing options that offer shorter drive times to healthcare facilities.

Moving to Saucier, while offering a tranquil environment, requires careful planning for healthcare access. Understanding the transportation landscape, including drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative options, is vital for managing asthma effectively and ensuring a high quality of life. This Asthma Score write-up serves as a valuable resource for making informed decisions regarding healthcare access in this charming Mississippi community.