39540, Diberville, Mississippi COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 39540, Diberville, Mississippi is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.95 percent of residents in 39540 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is 81st Medical Group (Keesler Afb) with a distance of 2.07 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39540 (D'Iberville, MS)

The COPD Score, a metric evaluating healthcare access for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, considers transportation options. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 39540 (D'Iberville, Mississippi), examines the feasibility of reaching essential healthcare services, crucial for managing a chronic respiratory condition. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for residents.

D'Iberville, a rapidly growing city on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, presents a unique transportation landscape. While the city benefits from its proximity to larger urban centers, the availability of diverse transportation options is vital for individuals with COPD, whose mobility may be limited by their condition. This assessment aims to provide a realistic view of healthcare accessibility within this community.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents with personal vehicles, drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary consideration. The primary thoroughfare is Interstate 10 (I-10), a major east-west artery. Accessing specialized pulmonary care often necessitates travel to hospitals or clinics located in Biloxi or Gulfport. A drive to the Singing River Health System in Biloxi, a common destination for specialized care, typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, accessing healthcare facilities in Gulfport, such as Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, requires traveling west on I-10, a journey that could take 25-35 minutes. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times, adding stress and potential complications for individuals with COPD. Other routes, such as traveling along US-90, offer alternative paths, but these roads are often slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in D'Iberville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast. While CTA buses offer a cost-effective transportation alternative, their routes and schedules may not be ideal for individuals with COPD. Route 1, which runs along US-90, offers access to some healthcare facilities, but the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can be problematic.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. CTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations, making them accessible for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities and the potential for transfers can still pose challenges. The lack of frequent service on some routes and the limited geographical coverage further restrict the usefulness of public transit for individuals with COPD.

**Ride-Sharing: Digital Mobility**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services are readily available in D'Iberville and can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare appointments. The convenience of ride-sharing is particularly appealing for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant barrier. The expense of frequent trips to healthcare appointments can quickly accumulate, placing a financial burden on individuals managing a chronic illness. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited demand.

**Medical Transportation: Specialized Support**

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from healthcare appointments. Several medical transportation providers operate in the D'Iberville area, offering a range of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.

Medical transportation services can be a valuable resource for individuals with COPD who require assistance with mobility or who need specialized medical support during transport. However, these services may require advance booking, and the availability of transportation can vary depending on the provider and the demand. Costs associated with medical transportation can also be substantial.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 39540 reflects a complex interplay of transportation options. While residents have access to various modes of transportation, challenges remain. Drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, but traffic congestion and the distance to specialized care centers can pose obstacles. Public transit offers a cost-effective option but has limitations in terms of route coverage, frequency, and potential for long wait times. Ride-sharing services provide convenience but can be expensive, while medical transportation offers specialized support but may require advance planning and can be costly.

**Moving to D'Iberville: Considerations for COPD Patients**

Individuals with COPD considering moving to D'Iberville should carefully evaluate the transportation options available. Proximity to healthcare facilities is a critical factor, as is the availability of reliable transportation. The ability to drive or access ride-sharing services is crucial, as public transit may not always be a practical option.

When considering a move, prospective residents should research the availability of specialized pulmonary care in the area and assess the ease of access to these services. They should also consider the cost of transportation and the potential financial burden associated with frequent healthcare appointments.

**Conclusion: A Score for the Road Ahead**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 39540 highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While D'Iberville offers a range of transportation options, individuals with COPD must carefully consider the limitations and challenges associated with each mode. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is essential for managing this chronic respiratory condition and maintaining a good quality of life. The score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical services, but also about the ability to reach those services.