39054, Cary, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39054, Cary, Mississippi is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.80 percent of residents in 39054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sharkey Issaquena Community Hospital with a distance of 7.36 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cary, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39054)

The journey to managing hypertension, a condition demanding consistent medical attention, is significantly impacted by the ease of **transportation** to and from healthcare providers. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Cary, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39054), focusing on drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the challenges and opportunities in **healthcare access** within this community.

Cary, a small town nestled in the Mississippi Delta, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare accessibility. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit, necessitates a thorough evaluation of the available **transportation** options for individuals managing hypertension. This assessment is crucial for anyone **moving to Cary**, providing a realistic understanding of the logistical hurdles involved in maintaining consistent medical care.

Drive times are a primary consideration. The nearest major medical centers are located in Greenville, approximately 25 miles east, and Yazoo City, roughly 40 miles south. Travel to Greenville typically involves navigating Highway 82 East, a two-lane road that can experience heavy truck traffic and seasonal delays due to agricultural activity. During peak hours, the drive can take up to 45 minutes. Yazoo City, accessible via Highway 149 South and then Highway 49 West, presents a longer journey, often exceeding an hour, especially during inclement weather. This extended travel time can be particularly burdensome for individuals experiencing hypertension-related symptoms or requiring frequent check-ups.

Local roads, such as Cary-Rolling Fork Road and Anguilla Road, offer alternative routes, but these are often unpaved or poorly maintained, potentially adding to travel time and posing challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The condition of these roads, coupled with the absence of sidewalks or bike lanes, further restricts alternative **transportation** options.

Public transit options in Cary are extremely limited. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) provides some regional bus services, but these typically operate on infrequent schedules and may not directly serve Cary or offer routes convenient for medical appointments. Information on specific route numbers, ADA accessibility features, and schedules is scarce, indicating a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The lack of reliable public transit disproportionately affects individuals with lower incomes, those unable to drive, and those with mobility impairments, exacerbating existing health disparities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Greenville and Yazoo City areas, but their presence in Cary is uncertain and sporadic. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments, especially considering the distances involved. The reliability of these services in a rural area, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies, is also a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist individuals with medical needs, may offer a more viable solution. However, the availability of such services in Cary is limited. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Rural/Metro Corporation, while present in the broader region, may not have a dedicated presence in Cary. The cost of medical **transportation** can be significant, often requiring prior authorization and insurance coverage, further complicating the process of accessing healthcare.

The absence of readily available and affordable **transportation** options creates a significant obstacle to consistent hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialized care are essential for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. The challenges in accessing healthcare in Cary can lead to delayed or missed appointments, resulting in poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs in the long run.

The "Hypertension Score" for Cary, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39054) reflects these realities. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to the nearest medical centers (Greenville and Yazoo City) and the reliability of these travel times.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options, including ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing Services:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical **transportation** services.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality and maintenance of local roads.
* **Alternative Transportation:** The availability of sidewalks, bike lanes, and other alternative **transportation** options.

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Cary would likely be low, indicating significant challenges in accessing healthcare. This score would serve as a critical piece of information for anyone **moving to Cary**, highlighting the need to carefully consider **transportation** options and plan for potential difficulties in maintaining consistent medical care.

For residents of Cary, navigating the healthcare system requires proactive planning and resourcefulness. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician, exploring options for telehealth consultations, and seeking assistance from local social services agencies can help mitigate the challenges. Advocacy for improved public transit and increased access to medical **transportation** services is crucial for improving **healthcare access** and the overall health of the community. The lack of readily available and affordable **transportation** options creates a significant obstacle to consistent hypertension management.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" underscores the critical link between **transportation** and health. It highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to improve **healthcare access** in rural communities like Cary, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to manage their health effectively, regardless of their mobility or financial constraints. The journey to better health begins with the ability to reach the doctor's office.