39040, Bentonia, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39040, Bentonia, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.36 percent of residents in 39040 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Medical Center-Yazoo with a distance of 14.77 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bentonia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39040)

Bentonia, Mississippi, a small community nestled in the heart of Yazoo County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 39040, evaluating its impact on healthcare access and ultimately, contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty residents face in receiving timely and appropriate medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Bentonia, as well as for current residents striving to maintain their health.

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is understanding the geography. Bentonia is a rural area, characterized by vast stretches of farmland and limited public transportation options. The primary artery for vehicular movement is Mississippi Highway 14, which runs east-west, connecting Bentonia to larger towns like Yazoo City and Canton. Highway 49, a major north-south thoroughfare, lies a significant distance to the east, offering access to Jackson, the state capital, and its comprehensive medical facilities. Navigating these highways and the network of county roads is the primary mode of transportation for most residents.

Drive times are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The closest primary care physicians and pharmacies are likely located in Yazoo City, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Highway 14. Accessing specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, often necessitates a trip to Jackson, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and the specific location of the clinic. This extended travel time can pose a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, as it can delay access to critical medications, follow-up appointments, and emergency care.

Public transportation options are severely limited in Bentonia. Yazoo County does not have a dedicated public bus system that serves the area. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or have limited mobility. The absence of readily available public transportation disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the Jackson metropolitan area, but their availability in Bentonia and the surrounding rural areas is inconsistent. The frequency of ride-sharing services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in less populated areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore unreliable, particularly for scheduled follow-ups or regular medication refills.

Medical transportation services offer a potential solution for those needing assistance with transportation to healthcare appointments. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region, including some that operate within Yazoo County. These services typically provide transportation for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. However, availability, cost, and the need for pre-booking can pose barriers to access. Furthermore, the quality of these services can vary, and it is essential to research and select a reputable provider.

The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on any available transportation is also crucial. While the lack of public transit hinders access for those with disabilities, the availability of NEMT services with accessible vehicles is essential. Ensuring that these vehicles are equipped with ramps, lifts, and other necessary accommodations is critical for providing equitable healthcare access.

Healthcare access in Bentonia is further complicated by the availability of medical facilities. While Yazoo City offers some primary care options, the availability of specialists and advanced medical services is limited. This necessitates travel to Jackson for many healthcare needs, further exacerbating the transportation challenges. The distance to hospitals and emergency rooms is another critical factor in the Hypertension Score. In the event of a hypertensive crisis, the time it takes to reach a hospital can be life-threatening.

The cost of transportation is another significant consideration. The expense of owning and maintaining a vehicle, including gas, insurance, and repairs, can be a substantial burden, especially for low-income individuals. Even when relying on ride-sharing or medical transportation services, the cost of transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare.

The Hypertension Score for Bentonia, Mississippi, reflects the confluence of these factors. The score is negatively impacted by the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the need to travel to Jackson for specialized care. The distance to hospitals and the potential for delayed access to emergency care further contribute to a lower score.

For individuals considering moving to Bentonia, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with hypertension should prioritize proximity to medical facilities, reliable transportation options, and the ability to access regular medical care. Researching available medical transportation services, identifying primary care physicians in Yazoo City, and understanding the drive times to specialized care in Jackson are essential steps.

The community can also take steps to improve healthcare access. This includes advocating for increased availability of medical transportation services, supporting the development of telehealth programs, and exploring the feasibility of establishing a local clinic with a broader range of services. Community initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and disease prevention are also crucial.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Bentonia, Mississippi, presents significant challenges to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The Hypertension Score reflects the complexities of navigating the rural environment, the limitations of public transportation, and the need to travel for specialized medical care. Understanding these factors is essential for both current residents and those considering moving to Bentonia. By addressing the transportation barriers and advocating for improved healthcare resources, the community can work towards improving healthcare access and promoting the well-being of its residents.