39459, Moselle, Mississippi COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 39459, Moselle, Mississippi is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.74 percent of residents in 39459 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Forrest General Hospital with a distance of 9.49 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39459

The air hangs heavy with the Mississippi humidity in Moselle, ZIP code 39459. For those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), this reality is compounded by the critical need for reliable and accessible healthcare. This write-up explores the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for COPD patients in this area, providing a "COPD Score" assessment based on commute times, public transit options, and available ride-share and medical transport services. This information is vital for current residents and those considering moving to Moselle, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities. In 39459, this often translates to navigating a network of highways and roads. For those with COPD, the journey to appointments can be a significant challenge. Drive times are crucial, as prolonged exposure to car exhaust and physical exertion can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

The primary artery for travel is **Highway 49**, a vital north-south corridor. Traveling south towards Hattiesburg, the nearest major city, can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey provides access to several hospitals and specialist clinics. Heading north on Highway 49 leads towards Collins and Mendenhall, offering alternative healthcare options, albeit with potentially longer travel times.

Secondary roads, like **Highway 588** and **Highway 13**, offer alternative routes, but these often involve navigating rural landscapes and potentially less well-maintained roadways. This can present challenges for those with mobility issues or those who require frequent stops. The condition of these roads and the availability of rest areas are critical considerations for COPD patients.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The availability of buses or other forms of public transit is almost non-existent. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of accessible public transit, including features like wheelchair lifts or designated seating, is a major negative factor in our COPD Score assessment.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in the Hattiesburg area. However, their availability in Moselle and the surrounding rural areas can be inconsistent. Wait times can be long, and the cost can be prohibitive for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a crucial factor in the COPD Score, as inconsistent access can lead to missed appointments and compromised healthcare.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or those who require medical assistance during transport. Several companies provide these services in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). However, the availability of NEMT services, particularly for routine appointments, can be limited. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden, especially for those on fixed incomes.

The distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the availability of specialized services all contribute to the overall COPD Score. This score reflects the ease or difficulty with which COPD patients can access the healthcare they need. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score reflects greater challenges.

For residents of 39459, the COPD Score is likely to be moderate. The proximity to Hattiesburg offers access to quality healthcare, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the cost of medical transportation can be a barrier for some.

The COPD Score is not a static measure. It can change based on factors such as the expansion of healthcare facilities, improvements in road infrastructure, and the availability of new transportation services. For those considering moving to Moselle, understanding the current COPD Score is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Living with COPD requires proactive management, and timely access to healthcare is essential. The ability to attend regular appointments, access specialist care, and obtain necessary medications can significantly impact the quality of life for COPD patients.

The lack of reliable public transportation is a significant drawback. The absence of accessible options like wheelchair-accessible buses or paratransit services limits healthcare access for those who cannot drive. This deficiency severely impacts the COPD Score, as it restricts the ability of many residents to reach their medical appointments.

The reliance on personal vehicles puts an additional burden on COPD patients. The physical exertion of driving, the potential for exposure to car exhaust, and the stress of navigating traffic can all exacerbate respiratory symptoms. The availability of accessible parking at healthcare facilities is also a crucial consideration.

The availability of medical transportation services is a positive factor, but the cost and availability of these services can be a challenge. The COPD Score must consider the financial burden of these services and the potential for delays in accessing care.

The overall COPD Score for 39459 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The presence of healthcare facilities in nearby Hattiesburg is a positive aspect, but the lack of robust public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant challenges.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Moselle, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements is essential. They should carefully evaluate the availability of transportation options, the cost of services, and the potential impact of travel on their respiratory health.

The COPD Score is a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access in 39459. It highlights the need for improved transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive. The score serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible healthcare and the need for ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for COPD patients in this area.

The challenges of healthcare access in 39459 underscore the importance of community awareness and advocacy. Local initiatives to improve transportation options, promote accessible healthcare facilities, and provide support services for COPD patients can significantly improve the COPD Score and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The future of healthcare access in Moselle depends on a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies must work together to address the transportation challenges and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. This collaborative approach is essential for creating a healthier and more supportive environment for those living with COPD.