39079, Goodman, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39079, Goodman, Mississippi is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.73 percent of residents in 39079 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 Holmes County Hospital And Clinics with a distance of 12.50 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Goodman, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39079)

The heart of Goodman, Mississippi, beats with the rhythm of rural life. But for residents managing hypertension, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical lifeline. This write-up assesses the “Hypertension Score” for ZIP code 39079, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing necessary medical care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access in this community. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to Goodman, as understanding these factors is crucial for managing their health.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. A high Hypertension Score indicates easy and reliable transportation to healthcare facilities. Conversely, a low score reflects significant challenges in reaching medical providers, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. The score is not a numerical value but a comprehensive analysis, considering all available transportation modalities and their limitations.

**Driving the Distance:**

For many in Goodman, the personal vehicle remains the cornerstone of transportation. The most direct route to healthcare often involves navigating the local roads and highways. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in nearby towns, requiring a drive.

Traveling to Lexington, approximately 15 miles south, is a common destination. The journey typically involves taking Mississippi Highway 12, a well-maintained two-lane road, and then transitioning onto Mississippi Highway 14, which leads directly into Lexington. Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, but generally, the trip takes around 20-30 minutes.

Another option is to head north to Winona, roughly 20 miles away. This route often utilizes Mississippi Highway 12, followed by a turn onto Mississippi Highway 82. This drive, with its more open stretches, usually takes about 30-40 minutes.

The condition of these highways is generally good, but seasonal weather events, like heavy rain or occasional ice, can impact travel times and safety. Rural roads often lack the infrastructure of urban areas, meaning limited street lighting and fewer emergency services readily available along the route.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in this rural area are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within ZIP code 39079 or providing regular service to nearby towns. This lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive due to health conditions, or cannot afford the cost of personal vehicle ownership.

The absence of public transportation severely impacts the Hypertension Score. Individuals relying on this mode of transportation would likely face significant barriers in accessing regular medical care, potentially leading to delayed treatment or missed appointments. This highlights the vulnerability of those without personal vehicles in this community. The lack of public transit further emphasizes the importance of other transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of Mississippi, but their presence in Goodman is sporadic. Availability is often limited to specific times of day and may be unreliable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies.

The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific provider. However, these services can provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. Booking in advance is often necessary to ensure availability.

**Healthcare Access and the Moving Decision:**

For those considering moving to Goodman, understanding the limitations of transportation options is paramount. Individuals with hypertension must carefully evaluate their ability to consistently access healthcare. The availability of medical transport services, the reliability of ride-sharing, and the drive times to medical facilities should be major considerations.

The availability of healthcare providers in Goodman itself is also a crucial factor. While the town may have a clinic or a family doctor, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, may necessitate travel to larger towns. This underscores the importance of assessing the overall healthcare landscape in the area.

**The Impact of Distance and Transportation on Hypertension Management:**

The distance to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation directly impact the management of hypertension. Regular medical check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential for controlling blood pressure.

If transportation is a barrier, individuals may be less likely to attend appointments, refill prescriptions, or seek timely medical attention. This can lead to uncontrolled hypertension, increasing the risk of serious health complications, such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 39079 reflects these challenges. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options pose significant obstacles to healthcare access. This is especially true for those without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 39079 is moderate, reflecting a mixed picture of transportation options. While driving is the most common mode of transportation, the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for some residents, but the cost and availability must be considered. For those considering moving to Goodman, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the accessibility of healthcare is essential. The ability to consistently access medical care is vital for managing hypertension and maintaining overall health.