38756, Leland, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 38756, Leland, Mississippi is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.34 percent of residents in 38756 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Delta Health System - The Medical Center with a distance of 7.70 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Leland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38756)

The heart of Leland, Mississippi, beats a steady rhythm, but for residents managing hypertension, the pulse of healthcare access demands careful scrutiny. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 38756, delves into the complexities of transportation and its impact on receiving timely and consistent medical care. The ability to reach healthcare providers is paramount, and this write-up examines the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all vital components in the fight against high blood pressure.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Leland, and indeed much of the Mississippi Delta, is the personal vehicle. For those fortunate enough to own and operate a car, the landscape opens considerably. The primary routes to healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals, are dictated by the network of highways and roads. Highway 82, a major east-west artery, offers the most direct access to Greenville, a regional hub for medical services. The drive time to the major hospital in Greenville, **Delta Regional Medical Center**, can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Leland.

Other roads, such as Highway 61, provide alternative routes, though they often involve longer travel times and potentially less direct paths. Local roads, like Leland-Arcola Road and South Main Street, serve as crucial connectors, facilitating access to local clinics and pharmacies. However, these roads can be subject to potholes and other road hazards, particularly after heavy rains, potentially impacting travel times and the safety of those with health concerns.

For individuals without personal vehicles, the options become more limited. Public transportation, while present, is not as robust as in more urban areas. The availability of public transit is a critical factor when assessing healthcare access. The Delta Area Transit System (DATS) provides some transportation services within Washington County, including Leland. However, the frequency of routes and the geographical coverage are often limited, and the schedules may not always align with medical appointments.

Information on specific DATS routes serving Leland and their frequency requires further investigation. Details on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, such as ramps and designated seating, are crucial for those with mobility limitations. The effectiveness of public transit in supporting consistent healthcare access depends heavily on these factors.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have begun to penetrate even smaller communities like Leland. The availability of these services, however, is not guaranteed, and wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services are critical components of the Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent a vital, though often expensive, option. These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transport. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, but their coverage areas and pricing structures can vary. The availability of these services, their cost, and the ease of scheduling are all essential considerations.

The impact of these transportation options on the ability of residents to manage their hypertension is significant. Regular medical check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are all critical components of effective hypertension management. The ability to consistently attend these appointments, obtain necessary medications, and access follow-up care is directly influenced by the availability and accessibility of transportation.

The "Hypertension Score" for Leland (ZIP code 38756) must therefore incorporate a weighted assessment of these factors. The score should consider the drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall affordability of transportation options. A high score would indicate excellent access, while a low score would highlight significant barriers.

For individuals considering moving to Leland, understanding this "Hypertension Score" is paramount. Prospective residents with hypertension must carefully evaluate the available transportation options and their potential impact on their healthcare needs. This assessment should include a thorough investigation of the public transit routes, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport.

The healthcare landscape in Leland, like many rural areas, presents both challenges and opportunities. While the personal vehicle remains the dominant mode of transportation, the development of more robust public transit options, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the availability of affordable medical transport are crucial for improving healthcare access and supporting the health and well-being of all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Leland, therefore, reflects not only the current state of transportation infrastructure but also the potential for future improvements. By investing in transportation solutions, the community can significantly enhance the quality of life for its residents and create a healthier future for all.