39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.10 percent of residents in 39159 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sharkey Issaquena Community Hospital with a distance of 0.50 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rolling Fork, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39159)

Rolling Fork, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, presents unique challenges and opportunities for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 39159, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering moving to Rolling Fork. It considers the critical role transportation plays in managing this chronic respiratory illness.

The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and reliably is paramount for COPD patients. Regular appointments for monitoring, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation are essential components of care. Delays or difficulties in accessing these services can exacerbate symptoms, leading to hospitalizations and a diminished quality of life. This score evaluates the transportation landscape, highlighting potential obstacles and available solutions.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Rolling Fork. The town's layout, characterized by rural roads and limited public transit, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles. The primary artery is **Highway 61**, a historic route that snakes through the Mississippi Delta, connecting Rolling Fork to larger towns and cities. Traveling north on Highway 61 provides access to healthcare facilities in Greenville, approximately a 30-minute drive. Southward, the highway leads to Vicksburg, about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive, offering a broader range of specialized medical services.

Local roads, such as **Main Street** and **North Deer Creek Drive**, facilitate movement within Rolling Fork. However, these roads are often narrow, with limited shoulders, and can be susceptible to flooding during heavy rains, potentially disrupting travel. The condition of these roads, and the distance to healthcare providers, are key factors in this COPD Score.

Public transportation options are limited in Rolling Fork. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) provides some transportation services, but these are often demand-response, requiring advance booking. The availability of these services for medical appointments is variable. There is no fixed-route bus service within the town or connecting to neighboring communities. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of MDOT services is a critical consideration for COPD patients who may have mobility limitations. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA features is difficult to obtain and requires direct contact with MDOT.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Rolling Fork. The sparse population and limited demand make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate regularly. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer an alternative. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically involve scheduled pick-up and drop-off for medical appointments. However, availability and cost can vary. Researching specific NEMT providers serving ZIP Code 39159 is crucial. Understanding their service areas, insurance coverage, and patient reviews is vital.

The COPD Score for Rolling Fork reflects a challenging transportation environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the absence of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The availability of medical transportation services offers a potential solution, but their accessibility and affordability must be carefully evaluated.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Rolling Fork, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors to consider include: the proximity of their home to healthcare providers, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, the ability to drive, and the cost of medical transportation services.

The COPD Score assessment also considers the location of pharmacies. Access to medication refills is crucial for COPD management. The presence of local pharmacies in Rolling Fork and their operating hours are important factors. The availability of mail-order pharmacy services, offering home delivery of medications, can alleviate transportation challenges.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is another critical element. The response time of ambulances to a medical emergency is a life-or-death matter for COPD patients experiencing acute exacerbations. The location of the nearest hospital and the efficiency of EMS services in Rolling Fork significantly impact the COPD Score.

The healthcare landscape in Rolling Fork includes the Sharkey-Issaquena Community Hospital, offering primary care services. For specialized care, such as pulmonology, patients often need to travel to Greenville or Vicksburg. The drive times, as mentioned, can be significant, adding to the challenges of healthcare access.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of support services. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs, offering exercise and education, are essential for managing COPD. The presence of such programs in Rolling Fork or nearby communities is a positive factor. Support groups, providing emotional support and peer-to-peer learning, can also improve the quality of life for COPD patients.

The overall COPD Score for ZIP Code 39159 is moderate, reflecting a complex interplay of factors. The limited transportation options present significant challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The availability of medical transportation services and the presence of local healthcare providers offer some mitigation. However, the reliance on driving and the distance to specialized care remain significant concerns.

For those considering moving to Rolling Fork with COPD, careful planning and preparation are essential. This includes: securing reliable transportation, identifying healthcare providers, understanding the availability of support services, and establishing a plan for managing acute exacerbations. This analysis is a starting point, and further investigation is encouraged to ensure the best possible healthcare access and quality of life. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is key to successfully managing COPD in Rolling Fork.