39039, Benton, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39039, Benton, Mississippi is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.01 percent of residents in 39039 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Yazoo with a distance of 9.44 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39039**

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within ZIP code 39039 (Benton, Mississippi), evaluating the ease with which residents can access medical facilities, particularly those equipped to manage hypertension. This "Hypertension Score" considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. The goal is to inform residents, especially those considering moving to Benton, about the practical realities of receiving timely medical care.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Benton is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's layout and the location of medical facilities necessitate driving. Residents typically navigate using Mississippi Highway 16, the primary artery connecting Benton to larger towns like Canton and Carthage, where more specialized healthcare options are available. Local roads, such as Old Canton Road and Old Highway 16, provide alternative routes, though these may be less well-maintained and potentially slower.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are crucial. Within Benton itself, access to primary care physicians and basic medical services is generally within a reasonable timeframe, often under 15 minutes. However, for specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, residents must travel to nearby cities. A drive to Canton, approximately 15 miles east via Highway 16, takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Carthage, about 20 miles northeast, offers similar travel times. Jackson, the state's capital and home to major medical centers, is approximately 40 miles south, requiring a drive of about 45-60 minutes, influenced by traffic on Interstate 55.

Public transportation options are limited in Benton and the surrounding area. The availability of bus services is minimal, with no established routes serving the town directly. The lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The absence of accessible public transit directly impacts healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Benton, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence in the area, which may be less frequent compared to larger urban centers. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for regular medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a potential solution for some, it is not a consistently dependable option for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transport. Several companies operate in the area, including local ambulance services and private medical transport providers. These services can be essential for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve additional costs, which need consideration when assessing healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical factor in evaluating healthcare access. The availability of accessible transportation options, such as vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts, is essential for individuals with mobility impairments. The presence of accessible features in public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport vehicles directly impacts the ability of individuals with disabilities to reach healthcare facilities. The lack of readily available ADA-compliant transportation presents a significant challenge for a segment of the population.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 39039 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While basic medical services are available within the town, accessing specialized care requires travel, primarily by personal vehicle. The limitations of public transit and the variable nature of ride-sharing services present challenges for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for some, but their cost and the need for pre-booking must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Benton, the transportation landscape is a key factor in assessing healthcare access. Those with hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully evaluate their ability to manage travel to medical appointments. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates considering the costs of vehicle ownership, maintenance, and fuel. Individuals without personal vehicles should explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities is another crucial consideration. The absence of readily available ADA-compliant transportation can significantly impact healthcare access for this population. Careful planning and consideration of transportation options are essential for ensuring timely access to medical care, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

In conclusion, while Benton offers a degree of healthcare access, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative transportation options. Residents must proactively plan for transportation to medical appointments, considering the costs and availability of various services. For those considering moving to Benton, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the available resources is essential for ensuring effective healthcare management. The goal is to support residents in making informed decisions about their healthcare and well-being, particularly for those managing chronic conditions.