39530, Biloxi, Mississippi COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 39530, Biloxi, Mississippi is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.89 percent of residents in 39530 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Biloxi with a distance of 0.54 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Biloxi (39530)

Choosing a new home, especially for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), demands meticulous planning. Healthcare access, particularly transportation to and from medical appointments, significantly impacts quality of life. This write-up, focusing on ZIP Code 39530 in Biloxi, Mississippi, assesses the COPD score, evaluating the ease of commute to healthcare facilities, providing a comprehensive understanding for individuals considering moving to Biloxi.

The primary concern is accessibility. The ability to reach pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other vital healthcare providers is paramount. This score considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture of the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Biloxi, nestled along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, relies heavily on personal vehicles. The primary artery for navigating 39530 is **US Highway 90**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east, residents can reach Gulfport Memorial Hospital in approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Westward, the drive to Ocean Springs Hospital is roughly the same.

Secondary roads, such as **Popp's Ferry Road** and **Pass Road (also known as MS-67)**, offer alternative routes, though they can experience heavier congestion during peak hours. These roads provide access to local clinics and medical offices. The condition of these roads is generally good, but potholes and construction delays can occasionally impede travel.

For individuals residing in the eastern portion of 39530, accessing the Veterans Affairs (VA) Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Biloxi is a significant consideration. The drive, primarily via US-90, typically takes 10-15 minutes. The proximity of this facility is a considerable advantage for veterans with COPD, offering specialized care and resources.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Coast**

Public transportation options in Biloxi are limited but exist. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast. While not ideal for frequent medical appointments, the CTA offers a lifeline for those without personal vehicles.

Several routes serve 39530, including Route 20, which travels along US-90, connecting various points within Biloxi and beyond. Route 21 provides service along Popp's Ferry Road, offering access to medical offices and shopping centers. Route 22 travels along Pass Road, providing further connectivity.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. The CTA endeavors to provide accessible buses with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be a drawback. Planning ahead and allowing ample time for travel are essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in Biloxi, offering an alternative to public transportation and personal vehicles. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Costs can vary based on demand and distance.

Medical transport services are available for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services specialize in providing door-to-door assistance, often accommodating wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Several companies operate in the area, including Gulf Coast Medical Transportation and First Choice Medical Transportation.

These services offer a valuable solution for individuals with COPD who may have difficulty driving or using public transportation. However, it is essential to book these services in advance, especially for appointments at peak times.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations**

The availability of healthcare providers within 39530 and surrounding areas is another crucial factor. Biloxi offers a range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized practices. Several pulmonologists and respiratory therapists practice in the area, providing specialized care for individuals with COPD.

The proximity of the VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System is a significant advantage for veterans. The VA system provides comprehensive care, including respiratory therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and access to specialized equipment.

When considering moving to Biloxi, individuals with COPD should research the specific healthcare providers they require and assess their accessibility. Factors to consider include the distance to appointments, the availability of transportation, and the ease of navigating medical facilities.

**COPD Score Assessment**

Evaluating the transportation options in 39530 reveals a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those unable to drive. While ride-sharing services offer a degree of flexibility, their availability is not always guaranteed. Public transportation, while accessible, is limited in frequency and coverage. Medical transport services offer a valuable solution, but they require advance planning and can be costly.

The overall COPD score for 39530, based on transportation accessibility, is moderate. While the presence of major roadways and ride-sharing services provides some advantages, the limitations of public transportation and the need for advance planning for medical transport services necessitate careful consideration.

**Recommendations**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Biloxi, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess personal transportation needs:** Determine the ability to drive or rely on others for transportation.
* **Research healthcare provider locations:** Identify the location of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other necessary healthcare providers.
* **Explore public transportation options:** Familiarize yourself with CTA routes and schedules.
* **Investigate ride-sharing availability:** Assess the reliability and cost of Uber and Lyft services in the area.
* **Identify medical transport services:** Research and contact medical transport providers to understand their services and costs.
* **Plan for appointment logistics:** Factor in travel time, parking availability, and potential delays when scheduling medical appointments.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with COPD can make informed decisions about moving to Biloxi, ensuring access to the healthcare they need while navigating the transportation landscape. The goal is to create a plan that balances healthcare access with the realities of transportation in this beautiful coastal community.