39736, Artesia, Mississippi COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 39736, Artesia, Mississippi is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.42 percent of residents in 39736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Och Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.23 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Artesia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39736)

The air hangs heavy in Artesia, Mississippi, a small town nestled in the heart of Lowndes County. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the simple act of accessing healthcare can be a monumental challenge. This "COPD Score" write-up examines the transportation landscape within ZIP code 39736, focusing on the practicalities of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for current residents and those contemplating moving to Artesia, offering a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility.

The primary healthcare hub for Artesia residents is often Columbus, Mississippi, a city roughly 15 miles east. This distance, seemingly manageable, becomes a significant hurdle for individuals with COPD, whose breathing difficulties can be exacerbated by even short journeys. Driving is the most common mode of transportation, relying heavily on Mississippi Highway 182. This two-lane highway, while providing a direct route, can be congested during peak hours, extending travel times and increasing exposure to pollutants. The drive typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the driver's speed.

Alternatively, residents might utilize County Road 100, a less-traveled option that offers a slightly longer but potentially less stressful route. However, this road is often poorly maintained, with potholes and uneven surfaces that can make the journey uncomfortable, particularly for those with respiratory issues. Navigating these roads requires careful planning, especially during inclement weather, as heavy rain or fog can significantly impact visibility and driving conditions. The overall transportation infrastructure, while present, presents significant challenges to healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Artesia are limited. The Golden Triangle Regional Airport (GTR) in Columbus offers some connectivity, but it's not a viable option for routine healthcare appointments. The primary public transit service is provided by the Golden Triangle Area Development District (GTADD), operating under the name "Golden Triangle Transit." However, the service primarily caters to the elderly and disabled, with limited routes and schedules.

GTADD offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service, while providing some accessibility, is not always reliable, and wait times can be unpredictable. Furthermore, the service's availability is restricted, often operating only during weekdays and within specific hours. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a positive aspect, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service. However, the limited scope of the public transit system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for many Artesia residents, particularly those without personal vehicles or the financial means to afford other transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Columbus but their presence in Artesia is inconsistent. Their availability is highly dependent on driver availability and demand. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for early morning appointments, can be challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for some, adding another layer of financial burden to healthcare access. This inconsistent availability further complicates the already complex transportation landscape for individuals with COPD.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available but often require prior arrangements. These services, such as ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are typically reserved for patients with significant mobility limitations or medical needs that require constant monitoring during transport. These services are often expensive, and the wait times can be lengthy, especially during periods of high demand.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Artesia, the transportation challenges must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits of residing in a rural community. The lack of readily available transportation options, coupled with the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited scope of public transit, can significantly impact healthcare access. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of medical transport services, assess their ability to drive, and consider the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or other transportation alternatives.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Artesia itself is limited. The closest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in Columbus, making transportation a critical factor in managing COPD. Residents must proactively plan their healthcare appointments, considering travel times, potential delays, and the availability of transportation options. This requires a proactive approach to healthcare management, including scheduling appointments well in advance, coordinating transportation with family or friends, and exploring all available resources.

The COPD Score for Artesia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39736) reflects the complex interplay of transportation limitations and healthcare access. While the community offers a sense of rural tranquility, the challenges of commuting to healthcare facilities, particularly for individuals with COPD, are undeniable. Residents must navigate a landscape characterized by limited public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the reliance on personal vehicles. For those considering moving to Artesia, a thorough understanding of these transportation realities is essential to ensure adequate healthcare access and quality of life. The need for improved public transportation options, increased ride-sharing availability, and readily accessible medical transport services is paramount to improving the COPD Score and enhancing healthcare access for the residents of Artesia.