39082, Harrisville, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39082, Harrisville, Mississippi is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

12.37 percent of residents in 39082 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Simpson General Hospital Cah with a distance of 13.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Harrisville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39082)

Considering a move to Harrisville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39082)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" framework, assessing the accessibility of healthcare, specifically considering the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension. This score considers various **transportation** options, crucial for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergencies. The goal is to illuminate the realities of **healthcare access** in this locale, aiding informed decisions for prospective residents.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment but a contextual understanding of the logistical hurdles. It blends drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options to paint a picture of how easily someone with hypertension can reach essential medical services.

**Understanding the Hypertension Score Components:**

The score is derived from four key components: Drive Time Accessibility, Public Transit Feasibility, Ride-Sharing & Medical Transport Reliability, and Proximity to Pharmacies. Each component is weighted based on its impact on a hypertensive individual's ability to receive timely and consistent care.

**1. Drive Time Accessibility:**

Harrisville, Mississippi, is a rural community, and the primary mode of **transportation** is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The "Drive Time Accessibility" component assesses the time required to reach the nearest medical facilities equipped to manage hypertension. The most significant determinant here is the proximity to larger towns and cities with comprehensive medical infrastructure.

The primary routes for accessing healthcare from Harrisville involve navigating the surrounding highways and roads. Heading north, Mississippi Highway 49 (MS-49) is the main artery. It connects Harrisville to the larger city of Jackson, approximately 30-40 miles away, a drive that can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and time of day. This is the most likely destination for specialized care, including cardiology and endocrinology services.

Heading south, MS-49 also provides access to Hattiesburg, a similar distance but potentially a longer drive, around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic flow. This route passes through smaller towns and offers fewer immediate healthcare options.

Within Harrisville itself, local clinics and general practitioners may offer basic care and medication management. However, individuals with hypertension often require specialized care, making the drive to Jackson or Hattiesburg a necessity. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, adds another layer of complexity to this **transportation** challenge. The availability of reliable vehicles, therefore, is a significant factor.

**2. Public Transit Feasibility:**

Public **transportation** options in Harrisville are extremely limited. There is no established bus service or train line directly serving the area. This lack of public transit presents a considerable barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates dependence on alternative **transportation** methods, which can significantly affect **healthcare access**. This lack of options impacts those with mobility issues or those who cannot afford or maintain a vehicle. It also increases the reliance on family, friends, or potentially costly ride-sharing services.

The absence of public **transportation** also limits the ability to access pharmacies for medication refills or to attend follow-up appointments. This lack of options can lead to delays in treatment and potentially exacerbate the condition.

**3. Ride-Sharing & Medical Transport Reliability:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas. While availability may exist, it is not guaranteed, and wait times can be substantial. The cost of ride-sharing services to Jackson or Hattiesburg can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available but require pre-booking and may have limited availability. These services cater to individuals with specific medical needs and can be a viable option, but they often come with associated costs and scheduling complexities.

The reliability of these services is a critical factor. Unpredictable wait times, the potential for cancellation, and the cost of these services can create considerable stress for individuals managing hypertension. The need for reliable **transportation** is paramount.

**4. Proximity to Pharmacies:**

The availability of pharmacies within Harrisville is another crucial factor. Easy access to medication refills is vital for managing hypertension. The presence of local pharmacies can significantly improve **healthcare access**.

The distance to the nearest pharmacy, the operating hours, and the availability of prescription delivery services all play a role. Individuals who rely on medication must have a reliable and convenient way to obtain their prescriptions.

**Hypertension Score Calculation and Interpretation:**

The "Hypertension Score" is calculated by assigning points to each component, based on the factors described above. The total score will range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access to healthcare and 10 representing the easiest access.

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** (Weight: 30%) Considers the distance and time to reach specialized medical facilities.
* **Public Transit Feasibility:** (Weight: 25%) Evaluates the availability and reliability of public **transportation**.
* **Ride-Sharing & Medical Transport Reliability:** (Weight: 25%) Assesses the availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** (Weight: 20%) Considers the distance to pharmacies and the availability of prescription services.

**Preliminary Assessment for Harrisville (39082):**

Based on the initial assessment, the "Hypertension Score" for Harrisville (39082) would likely fall in the range of 3-4 out of 10. This score reflects the challenges associated with **healthcare access** in a rural setting. The long drive times to specialized care, the lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the potential for pharmacy access issues all contribute to this lower score.

**Implications for Moving to Harrisville:**

For individuals considering **moving to Harrisville**, this "Hypertension Score" analysis highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration. Individuals with hypertension should:

* Assess their ability to drive and maintain a reliable vehicle.
* Investigate the availability of local healthcare providers and pharmacy services.
* Explore options for medical **transportation** services and their associated costs.
* Consider the potential impact of weather and road conditions on travel times.
* Factor in the potential costs of **transportation** when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

**Conclusion:**

Living with hypertension in Harrisville requires proactive planning and a realistic understanding of the **transportation** challenges. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in **healthcare access** must be carefully considered. This "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for evaluating these challenges, empowering prospective residents to make informed decisions about **moving to Harrisville** and ensuring their ability to manage their health effectively. This analysis underscores the importance of considering the logistical realities of **healthcare access** when choosing a place to live, especially for those with chronic health conditions.