39743, Crawford, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39743, Crawford, Mississippi is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.18 percent of residents in 39743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Noxubee General Critical Access Hosp with a distance of 13.67 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Crawford, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39743)

The crisp Mississippi air, often scented with the sweet fragrance of pine, might seem idyllic. However, for residents of Crawford, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39743) managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare can be a complex and sometimes daunting challenge. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for this area, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We’ll explore the existing infrastructure, the limitations, and the potential hurdles faced by individuals with asthma, especially those considering moving to Crawford.

Crawford, a small town nestled in Lowndes County, offers a tranquil lifestyle for those seeking a slower pace. But the very charm of rural living can exacerbate challenges for those managing chronic conditions like asthma. The availability and reliability of transportation directly impact the ability to obtain timely medical care, a crucial factor in controlling asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

The primary artery connecting Crawford to larger population centers and healthcare facilities is **Mississippi Highway 182**. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic delays, especially during peak hours or due to unforeseen incidents. The drive to Columbus, the nearest city with significant healthcare resources, is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short distance is a significant advantage for Crawford residents.

However, the journey to specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergy specialists, often necessitates travel to larger cities like Starkville or Tupelo. These destinations, while offering more comprehensive medical services, are considerably further away. A trip to Starkville, utilizing **Highway 182** and connecting to **Highway 12**, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Traveling to Tupelo, a journey involving **Highway 182** and **Highway 45**, can easily consume two hours or more. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for individuals experiencing an asthma flare-up, potentially delaying critical medical intervention.

Public transportation options in Crawford are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town itself. The nearest public transit services are located in Columbus, which primarily serves the city limits. This lack of accessible public transportation significantly reduces healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

Furthermore, the absence of a robust public transit system disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit further compounds these challenges. For an individual with asthma, the inability to easily and reliably access medical care can lead to increased emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and a diminished quality of life.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Columbus area, but their presence in Crawford is inconsistent and unreliable. The availability of drivers is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in the evenings. This unreliability can make it difficult to schedule and attend medical appointments, especially for those with unpredictable asthma symptoms.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. However, the availability and cost of these services in Crawford are crucial factors to consider. While several medical transportation companies operate in the broader region, their service areas and pricing structures vary.

Some of the prominent brands that may service the area include, but are not limited to, AMR (American Medical Response) and Priority Ambulance. These companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

Individuals with asthma considering moving to Crawford should carefully evaluate these transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles or the potential need to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services significantly impacts the overall "Asthma Score" for this area. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options creates a barrier to timely healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" is further influenced by the potential exposure to environmental triggers. The rural setting of Crawford may offer a respite from urban air pollution, but the presence of pollen, mold, and other allergens can trigger asthma symptoms. The prevalence of seasonal allergies, common in the Mississippi region, can also exacerbate asthma.

Moreover, the availability of healthcare providers within Crawford is another critical factor. While the town may have a primary care physician, the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is limited. This necessitates travel to Columbus, Starkville, or Tupelo, further increasing the reliance on transportation.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Crawford, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39743) is moderate. While the proximity to Columbus offers relatively easy access to some healthcare services, the limitations in public transportation, the unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical transportation create significant challenges for individuals with asthma. Those considering moving to Crawford must carefully assess their transportation needs and the potential impact on their ability to manage their asthma effectively. Proactive planning, including securing reliable transportation options and establishing relationships with healthcare providers, is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being in this charming but transportation-challenged community.