39470, Poplarville, Mississippi COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 39470, Poplarville, Mississippi is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.92 percent of residents in 39470 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pearl River County Hospital with a distance of 3.99 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Poplarville, MS (ZIP Code 39470)

Considering a move to Poplarville, Mississippi, and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Understanding healthcare access is crucial. This analysis provides a “COPD Score” based on transportation options, specifically for residents of ZIP Code 39470, to gauge the ease of reaching vital medical appointments. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the practical challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare.

Poplarville, a charming town nestled in Pearl River County, offers a slower pace of life. However, its relative isolation presents transportation hurdles for those with COPD, a disease often requiring frequent medical attention. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach healthcare providers directly impacts the quality of life and disease management. This assessment aims to empower potential residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary healthcare provider for Poplarville residents is Pearl River County Hospital, located in the heart of town. For routine appointments, driving is often the most direct option. However, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a significant factor for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue.

From many residential areas within 39470, reaching the hospital involves navigating a network of roads. Main Street, the town's central artery, provides direct access. Depending on the specific location, the drive is typically under 10 minutes. However, those residing further out, especially in the rural areas surrounding Poplarville, might encounter longer travel times.

Traveling from areas south of Poplarville, such as along Highway 26, adds time to the commute. Highway 26, a major east-west thoroughfare, can experience traffic, especially during peak hours. Expect a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes from these locations. Highway 11, running north-south, offers another route, but it may involve navigating through local streets, increasing travel time.

Considering these factors, the drive time to the hospital earns a moderate score. While proximity is generally good, the variability based on location and potential traffic conditions necessitates careful planning.

**Public Transit: The Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Poplarville are extremely limited. Pearl River County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This presents a significant challenge for individuals with COPD who may not be able to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the county may offer a demand-response system for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, often requiring advance booking, provides transportation to medical appointments and other essential destinations. However, the availability and accessibility of this service, including ADA-compliant features, must be thoroughly investigated.

The lack of readily available public transit significantly lowers the COPD score. The reliance on personal vehicles or specialized services highlights the transportation challenges faced by individuals with COPD in Poplarville.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Poplarville, though their reliability and availability can vary. Demand may be lower than in larger metropolitan areas, potentially leading to longer wait times or limited service hours. This is a crucial consideration for those with unpredictable health needs.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including local and regional providers.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds a layer of support to the transportation landscape. However, their cost and potential wait times must be carefully considered. These options, while helpful, are not a substitute for readily accessible and affordable transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access involves considering the availability of specialized COPD care. Assessing the number of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals within a reasonable distance is essential. The quality of care, including the availability of advanced treatments and support services, also plays a vital role.

In Poplarville, residents have access to local primary care physicians who can provide initial assessments and referrals. However, access to specialized COPD care may require travel to larger cities like Hattiesburg or New Orleans. This travel adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**COPD Score: A Summary**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the COPD score for ZIP Code 39470 is moderate. The proximity of the local hospital is a positive factor. However, the limited public transit options, the potential variability of ride-sharing services, and the need for specialized care outside of Poplarville present challenges.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Poplarville, thorough research is essential. Investigate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Contact the Pearl River County Department of Health and Human Services to learn about any available transportation assistance programs.

Assess the distance to specialists and the feasibility of regular travel for appointments. Consider the potential impact of weather conditions on transportation.

Moving to Poplarville requires careful planning to ensure seamless healthcare access. Understanding the transportation landscape and its limitations is critical for managing COPD effectively and maintaining a high quality of life. This analysis provides a starting point for making informed decisions and navigating the healthcare system in this charming, yet geographically constrained, community.