39232, Flowood, Mississippi COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 39232, Flowood, Mississippi is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.25 percent of residents in 39232 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brentwood Behavioral Healthcare Of Ms with a distance of 0.60 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39232**

Flowood, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Rankin County, presents a compelling tableau for individuals considering a move, especially those prioritizing healthcare access. This assessment delves into the complexities of transportation options for residents of ZIP Code 39232, focusing on the critical aspect of reaching healthcare facilities, a paramount concern for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Understanding the nuances of commute times, public transit, and alternative transportation modes is essential to evaluate the suitability of Flowood for individuals with COPD.

Flowood's strategic location offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to Jackson, the state's capital. However, this proximity doesn't automatically translate to effortless healthcare access. The transportation landscape in and around ZIP Code 39232 requires careful examination. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 20 (I-20) and Lakeland Drive. I-20 provides swift east-west access, while Lakeland Drive, a major thoroughfare, facilitates north-south movement and connects Flowood to neighboring communities.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a major regional healthcare provider, located in Jackson, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via I-20, depending on traffic conditions. Baptist Medical Center, another significant healthcare provider in Jackson, is accessible within a similar timeframe, typically via Lakeland Drive and I-55. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within Flowood itself, such as those along Lakeland Drive and near the Dogwood Festival Mall, offer more immediate options, often reachable within a 5-10 minute drive.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, can extend travel times considerably, potentially exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with COPD. Real-time traffic monitoring apps and websites are essential tools for planning healthcare-related trips.

Public transportation options in the area, while available, are limited. The Jackson Transit System (JATRAN) operates a network of buses, but service within Flowood is not as extensive as in the city of Jackson. Route 14, for instance, offers service along Lakeland Drive, providing a connection to Jackson. However, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, is limited. ADA-accessible buses are available on JATRAN routes, offering crucial support for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on public transit may necessitate longer travel times and multiple transfers, potentially increasing exposure to environmental triggers for COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation mode. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need for personal vehicle ownership or reliance on public transit schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services can also fluctuate, especially during peak demand periods or in areas with limited driver availability.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, often offered by private companies, provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While medical transportation services can be a valuable resource for individuals with COPD, they can also be expensive, and prior arrangements are often required.

The decision to relocate to Flowood, Mississippi, for individuals with COPD requires a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access. While the area offers proximity to major healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of transportation are critical considerations. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options all play a vital role in determining the suitability of Flowood for individuals with COPD.

Individuals with COPD should carefully evaluate their ability to navigate the transportation landscape, considering their physical limitations and the frequency of their healthcare appointments. A proactive approach to planning transportation, including exploring all available options and understanding potential challenges, is essential for ensuring healthcare access and promoting a high quality of life in Flowood. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for individuals considering moving to Flowood, Mississippi.