39767, Stewart, Mississippi Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 39767, Stewart, Mississippi is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.46 percent of residents in 39767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Webster General Hospital/ Swing Bed with a distance of 6.84 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stewart, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39767)

The journey to healthcare in Stewart, Mississippi, a rural community nestled in the heart of Webster County, presents unique challenges for individuals managing asthma. This write-up, functioning as an "Asthma Score," assesses the accessibility of medical care, considering transportation options and their impact on a resident's ability to receive timely and effective treatment. We will explore the realities of navigating the roads, public transit (if any), and alternative transportation options for residents, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access in this specific ZIP code. The ultimate goal is to illuminate the complexities of healthcare access for those living with asthma, particularly when considering moving to Stewart.

The foundation of healthcare access in Stewart lies in the private automobile. The primary thoroughfare is **Highway 82**, the lifeline connecting Stewart to larger towns like Eupora and Starkville. Driving times to medical facilities are crucial. Eupora, approximately a 15-minute drive, offers basic medical services, including a clinic and a pharmacy. Starkville, about a 45-minute drive, provides a wider array of specialists, a hospital, and comprehensive healthcare options. The condition of these roads, while generally well-maintained, can be impacted by weather, particularly during heavy rains or winter freezes, potentially extending travel times and complicating emergency situations.

**Highway 9** provides an alternative route to Starkville, though it adds a few minutes to the drive time. Local roads, such as **County Road 413** and **County Road 414**, serve as connectors within Stewart and to neighboring communities. These roads, often narrower and with less frequent maintenance, can present challenges for those with respiratory issues, particularly due to dust or pollen exposure, especially during spring and summer.

Public transportation options in Stewart are virtually nonexistent. Webster County, like many rural areas, lacks a formalized public transit system. This absence significantly impacts individuals without access to a personal vehicle, making healthcare access particularly difficult. The lack of public transit necessitates reliance on friends, family, or potentially, expensive ride-sharing services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Starkville, but their presence in Stewart is sporadic, contingent on driver availability. The reliability of these services for scheduled appointments or emergency situations is questionable. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to Starkville, can also be a significant financial burden, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary medical care. The lack of readily available transportation is a substantial barrier to healthcare access for individuals managing asthma.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Rural/Metro** operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services, while potentially more reliable than ride-sharing, come with associated costs, including mileage and service fees. The availability of these services in Stewart, and the speed with which they can respond to requests, should be considered.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any potential medical transport vehicle is essential for individuals with asthma who may also have mobility limitations. Ensuring the vehicle is equipped with appropriate ventilation systems and that the driver is trained in handling medical emergencies is crucial.

The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited transportation options, creates a significant barrier for individuals with asthma in Stewart. The ability to quickly access medical care in case of an asthma exacerbation is critical. The absence of readily available public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services increase the risk of delayed treatment, potentially leading to more severe health outcomes.

When considering moving to Stewart, potential residents with asthma must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of vehicle reliability and maintenance. Those without access to a personal vehicle face a significant challenge in accessing routine and emergency healthcare.

The availability of pharmacies in Stewart and the surrounding areas is another factor. Access to prescription medications, including inhalers and other asthma medications, is crucial for managing the condition. The proximity of pharmacies and their operating hours can impact the ability to refill prescriptions and obtain emergency medications.

The presence of urgent care facilities in the area is also important. While not a replacement for regular medical care, urgent care centers can provide immediate treatment for asthma exacerbations, bridging the gap until a patient can see their primary care physician or specialist.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Stewart, Mississippi, reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare. The limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services create a complex environment for individuals managing asthma. The distance to medical specialists and the potential for weather-related delays further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Stewart with asthma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to medical care is essential. This includes evaluating the reliability of their personal vehicle, identifying potential transportation alternatives, and understanding the availability of medical services in the surrounding areas. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. The absence of robust transportation options underscores the need for careful planning and preparedness for individuals managing asthma in this rural community.